Poluição atmosférica: áreas urbanas x áreas protegidas

Abstract

High concentrations of air pollutants, especially those found in large cities, pose an imminent risk to human health and to the well-being of organisms in general. Pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter (PM), carbon oxides (CO, CO2), nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2), ozone (O3) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Highly urbanized areas enhance this exposure. In contrast, in rural areas or protected by a Conservation Unit, the presence of these contaminants is usually reduced. This study aimed to carry out a literature review on the effects of air pollution on public health and the different concentrations of these pollutants between urban and non-urban areas. We elaborated a proposal of educational booklet to be used with high school students addressing the issue of atmospheric pollution and public health. In conclusion, the compiled results show that high concentrations of air pollutants are related to human genotoxicity and that areas protected by a Nature Conservation Unit and its buffer zone contribute to the improvement of air quality.