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OZONE:
Excessive production of chlorine-containing compounds (CFCs) (compounds used in
refrigerators, air conditioners, and in the polystyrene production) has depleted the ozone layer,
creating a hole above Antarctica. This lasts for several weeks each year. Consequently, as the
earth is not protected, during this time, against the negative rays of the sun, aquatic and terrestrial
wildlife, human health in high-latitude are threatened.
What can you do to protect yourself against negative sunrays? To protect plants?
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Air quality:
However, air quality is improving because of national laws setting air quality standards.
It is estimated that new cars of the 21st century will emit 99% less hydrocarbons and carbon
monoxide than in the 1970’s.
Greater use of electricity replacing other sources of energy in manufacturing, services and
household appliances. New technologies allow businesses to recycle gases and particules before
their release into the air.
Indoor air:
If we are doing something nationally, the effort must continue inside our own homes!
What is indoor air quality?
ETS is a mixture of the smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar and the
smoke exhaled from the lungs of smokers.
The health effects can start after few years; they are eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches;
lung cancer; may contribute to heart diseases. Specifically for children, increased risk of lower
respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and ear infections; build-up of
fluid in the middle ear; increased severity and frequency of asthma episodes; decreased lung
function.
Particle levels in homes without smokers or other strong particle sources are the same as, or lower
than, those outdoors. Homes with one or more smokers may have particle levels several times
higher than outdoor levels.
The steps to reduce indoor pollution are simple.
Do not smoke in your home or permit others to do so. Do not smoke if children are present,
particularly infants and toddlers. If smoking indoors cannot be avoided, increase ventilation in
the area where smoking takes place. Open windows or use exhaust fans. Do not smoke in the car.
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The high concentration of smoke in a small, closed compartment substantially increases the
exposure to other passengers. Respect yourself, respect those who live with you.
Even though smoking is not a great problem among Muslims, still some families re exposed to
this problem, and we must be aware that the practice is not recommended in Islam because it
endangers our health and the health of our families, of our neighbors too!
Another problem we might consider as far as indoor air is concerned is that the usage of
chemicals inside the house can be dangerous, especially the use of pesticides and sprays. Reduce
their usage as much as possible and replace them by natural products like repellents or natural
detergents.
Dust also can provoke or worsen asthma and conditions inside the house. Make sure you
clean the house thoroughly to get rid of the dust; some machines or filters help as well. Ask
around!
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