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Clearing the Air: The Beginning and the End of Air Pollution
"Read this book and join the effort to terminate air pollution."--Arnold Schwarzenegger, 38th Governor of California
The story of what's happened to the air we breathe, the impact it has had on our health and what we can do to fight back.
Clearing the Air tells the full story of what's happened to the air we breathe. Sustainability journalist Tim Smedley explains exactly what air pollution is, which chemicals are the dangerous ones and where they come from. He interviews the scientists and politicians at the forefront of air pollution research as well as those whose lives have been affected by smog. This groundbreaking book reveals the extreme instances of air pollution that have happened around the world, including London, Beijing, Delhi and LA, as well as examining recent stories like the VW diesel scandal.
Globally, 18,000 people die each day from air pollution. For the most part, air pollution is anonymous; an invisible killer borne from the cars in our driveways and the industrial processes used to make stuff, but there is so much we don't know. Parents on the school run in their 4x4s have never been told that the pollution inside the car is 5 times worse than that on the street outside, or that studies show how air pollution stunts lung growth in children.
Around the world, more than eight-out-of-ten people who live in cities breathe in concentrations of air pollutants that exceed international air quality guidelines. The annual number of deaths--6.5 million--is far greater than those from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and car crashes combined, and it is getting worse. These problems can be solved, and the message of the book is positive. The overwhelming majority of air pollutants are local, short-lived, and can be stopped at source; the benefits to health, instant and dramatic. There are many stories that show how the fightback against air pollution can and does work, and we can all play a part to clear our air.
The story of what's happened to the air we breathe, the impact it has had on our health and what we can do to fight back.
Clearing the Air tells the full story of what's happened to the air we breathe. Sustainability journalist Tim Smedley explains exactly what air pollution is, which chemicals are the dangerous ones and where they come from. He interviews the scientists and politicians at the forefront of air pollution research as well as those whose lives have been affected by smog. This groundbreaking book reveals the extreme instances of air pollution that have happened around the world, including London, Beijing, Delhi and LA, as well as examining recent stories like the VW diesel scandal.
Globally, 18,000 people die each day from air pollution. For the most part, air pollution is anonymous; an invisible killer borne from the cars in our driveways and the industrial processes used to make stuff, but there is so much we don't know. Parents on the school run in their 4x4s have never been told that the pollution inside the car is 5 times worse than that on the street outside, or that studies show how air pollution stunts lung growth in children.
Around the world, more than eight-out-of-ten people who live in cities breathe in concentrations of air pollutants that exceed international air quality guidelines. The annual number of deaths--6.5 million--is far greater than those from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and car crashes combined, and it is getting worse. These problems can be solved, and the message of the book is positive. The overwhelming majority of air pollutants are local, short-lived, and can be stopped at source; the benefits to health, instant and dramatic. There are many stories that show how the fightback against air pollution can and does work, and we can all play a part to clear our air.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published September 24, 2019
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891 people want to read
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January 21, 2021
Tajos laikos, kad par kovidu neviens vēl nebija dzirdējis, es skatījos listi ar labākajām tā gada populārzinātniskajām grāmatām, kā jau to biju radis darīt katru gadu. Pirkstu uz gudro un atzīto grāmatu pulsa ir jātur vienmēr, citādi neuzzināsi par jauno un patiesi svarīgo pasaulē. Kad grāmata atnāca (vispār jau pastniece pārmeta pāri žogam), es tai pat vakarā izlasīju nodaļu, kuras dēļ grāmatu vispār iegādājos - Dīzeļgeitu.
Īsumā pasaulē ar gaisa kvalitāti ir slikti un pie vainas ir paši cilvēki. Nav jau tā, ka gaisa piesārņojums būtu cilvēcei kas jauns, tas cilvēkus ir vajājis no laika gala. Dievs vien zina, cik cilvēku akmens laikmetā nosmaka nepareizi ventilētās alās ugunskura dūmos. Šī tradīcija gan vēl nav pavisam aizmirsta un pat šajos laikos pāris cilvēki aiziet postā ievelkot teltī vienreizlietojamo grilu kā apkures elementu. Un tad sākās bronzas laikmets, kas piedāvāja pavisam jaunus ķīmiskos savienojumus, ar kuriem saindēties, un visbeidzot industriālā revolūcija padarīja gaisu tādu, kurā cirvi var pakārt gaisā.
Mūsu laikos liktos viss ir kārtībā - smogs, ja ir, ir tikai lielās pilsētās kaut kur Indijā vai Amerikā un mūs neskar. Taču tā vis nav, un par to ir grāmata. Ja grāmatas saturs jāpasaka vienā teikumā, tad tas būtu – ir slikti dzīvot ceļa malā. Grāmatā šī tēma tiek izvērsta uz velna paraušanu un pastāstīšu tikai par lietām, kas man likās īpaši interesantas.
Kā jau parastam cilvēkam, man vissmieklīgākais fakts bija ne jau tetraetilsvina pievienošana degvielai, ne jau tādēļ ka nebūtu alternatīvu, bet gan tāpēc, ka to varēja patentēt. Mani visvairāk fascinēja fakts, ka savulaik Mehiko gaisa piesārņojuma putekļu frakcija sastāvēja no suņa izkārnījumu daļiņām.
Patiesībā jau gaisa piesārņojums autora prāt nemaz nav smieklīgs, tā dēļ bojā iet cilvēki un esošā likumdošana nespēj tikt progresam līdzi. Piemēram, katalizatori dīzeļiem diezgan veiksmīgi tiek galā ar rupjo piesārņojumu frakciju, bet ir praktiski bezspēcīga pret nanodaļiņām no tā paša motora. Protams, kvēps pats par sevi ir kaitīgs veselībai, bet atšķirībā no nanodaļiņas tas asinsritē neparādīsies jau pēc trīsdesmit minūtēm. Tas savukārt rada veselības problēmas un no tām cilvēki mirst. Tai pat laikā nekas netiek darīts, lai novērstu lielo piesārņotāju ietekmi uz atmosfēru, dažāda kalibra kuģiem vispār nav jēdzīgu regulējumu un caurmēra kruīza kuģis izmešu ziņā ir salīdzināms ar 100’000 automašīnām. Vai arī māja kurināšana ar malkas apkuri pilsētā ir tas pats, kā ja tev pie mājas stāvētu fūre ar ieslēgtu motoru cauru dienu.
Bet visu var labot, lielākoties piesārņojumu var novērst jau pie tā rašanās vietas, rūpniecību izmest no pilsētas, ieviest stingrākas regulas, ap bērnudārzu iestādīt mūžzaļo koku dzīvžogu un citas praktiskas lietas. Cilvēkiem vairāk pārvietoties ar sabiedrisko un pilsētās ierobežot auto kustību. Pat ja visi auto būtu zaļi, viņiem riepas dilst tik un tā un to daļiņas nonāk atmosfērā. Īsumā nekāds kosmoss nav jāizgudro. Pat velobraucēji konflikti Rīgā ar autovadītājiem nav nekas jauns uz pasaules, savulaik Parīzē un Londonā bija tāpat. Viena lieta, kur es īsti autoram nepiekritu, bija viņa lielais haips par ūdeņraža ekonomiku.
Kopumā grāmatas stāstījums mijas starp interesantu un garlaicīgu, brīžiem ir jāpiespiežas, lai lasītu tālāk. Ne visam es piekrītu, bet tas nenozīmē, ka tikai man ir taisnība. Ja dikti, nudien dikti interesē gaisa piesārņojuma problēmas, tad lasīt var 7 no 10 ballēm.
Īsumā pasaulē ar gaisa kvalitāti ir slikti un pie vainas ir paši cilvēki. Nav jau tā, ka gaisa piesārņojums būtu cilvēcei kas jauns, tas cilvēkus ir vajājis no laika gala. Dievs vien zina, cik cilvēku akmens laikmetā nosmaka nepareizi ventilētās alās ugunskura dūmos. Šī tradīcija gan vēl nav pavisam aizmirsta un pat šajos laikos pāris cilvēki aiziet postā ievelkot teltī vienreizlietojamo grilu kā apkures elementu. Un tad sākās bronzas laikmets, kas piedāvāja pavisam jaunus ķīmiskos savienojumus, ar kuriem saindēties, un visbeidzot industriālā revolūcija padarīja gaisu tādu, kurā cirvi var pakārt gaisā.
Mūsu laikos liktos viss ir kārtībā - smogs, ja ir, ir tikai lielās pilsētās kaut kur Indijā vai Amerikā un mūs neskar. Taču tā vis nav, un par to ir grāmata. Ja grāmatas saturs jāpasaka vienā teikumā, tad tas būtu – ir slikti dzīvot ceļa malā. Grāmatā šī tēma tiek izvērsta uz velna paraušanu un pastāstīšu tikai par lietām, kas man likās īpaši interesantas.
Kā jau parastam cilvēkam, man vissmieklīgākais fakts bija ne jau tetraetilsvina pievienošana degvielai, ne jau tādēļ ka nebūtu alternatīvu, bet gan tāpēc, ka to varēja patentēt. Mani visvairāk fascinēja fakts, ka savulaik Mehiko gaisa piesārņojuma putekļu frakcija sastāvēja no suņa izkārnījumu daļiņām.
Patiesībā jau gaisa piesārņojums autora prāt nemaz nav smieklīgs, tā dēļ bojā iet cilvēki un esošā likumdošana nespēj tikt progresam līdzi. Piemēram, katalizatori dīzeļiem diezgan veiksmīgi tiek galā ar rupjo piesārņojumu frakciju, bet ir praktiski bezspēcīga pret nanodaļiņām no tā paša motora. Protams, kvēps pats par sevi ir kaitīgs veselībai, bet atšķirībā no nanodaļiņas tas asinsritē neparādīsies jau pēc trīsdesmit minūtēm. Tas savukārt rada veselības problēmas un no tām cilvēki mirst. Tai pat laikā nekas netiek darīts, lai novērstu lielo piesārņotāju ietekmi uz atmosfēru, dažāda kalibra kuģiem vispār nav jēdzīgu regulējumu un caurmēra kruīza kuģis izmešu ziņā ir salīdzināms ar 100’000 automašīnām. Vai arī māja kurināšana ar malkas apkuri pilsētā ir tas pats, kā ja tev pie mājas stāvētu fūre ar ieslēgtu motoru cauru dienu.
Bet visu var labot, lielākoties piesārņojumu var novērst jau pie tā rašanās vietas, rūpniecību izmest no pilsētas, ieviest stingrākas regulas, ap bērnudārzu iestādīt mūžzaļo koku dzīvžogu un citas praktiskas lietas. Cilvēkiem vairāk pārvietoties ar sabiedrisko un pilsētās ierobežot auto kustību. Pat ja visi auto būtu zaļi, viņiem riepas dilst tik un tā un to daļiņas nonāk atmosfērā. Īsumā nekāds kosmoss nav jāizgudro. Pat velobraucēji konflikti Rīgā ar autovadītājiem nav nekas jauns uz pasaules, savulaik Parīzē un Londonā bija tāpat. Viena lieta, kur es īsti autoram nepiekritu, bija viņa lielais haips par ūdeņraža ekonomiku.
Kopumā grāmatas stāstījums mijas starp interesantu un garlaicīgu, brīžiem ir jāpiespiežas, lai lasītu tālāk. Ne visam es piekrītu, bet tas nenozīmē, ka tikai man ir taisnība. Ja dikti, nudien dikti interesē gaisa piesārņojuma problēmas, tad lasīt var 7 no 10 ballēm.
June 27, 2020
Tim Smedley’s book, ‘Clearing the Air” is excellent. He started the book by talking about his stake in living in a world with clean air. All of us should be concerned about the state of air pollution in the world. However, as stated in the book, death due to air pollution is a slow, grinding end. It is difficult to make a direct association between air pollution and death or illness.
Tim has organized the book very well, and his writing style is excellent. There is enough science in the book to make most of us happy; he has managed to strike the right balance between science and readability.
Most laypeople will understand the scientific arguments he has outlined and follow them. Anyone who reads the book should make a note of the action points he has listed at the end of the book. We must change the way we live.
There is one more aspect of the book that I like. Tim has written about countries in the Western hemisphere, as well as India and China. I like it. It makes the book more credible to me.
Read the book. I strongly recommend it.
Tim has organized the book very well, and his writing style is excellent. There is enough science in the book to make most of us happy; he has managed to strike the right balance between science and readability.
Most laypeople will understand the scientific arguments he has outlined and follow them. Anyone who reads the book should make a note of the action points he has listed at the end of the book. We must change the way we live.
There is one more aspect of the book that I like. Tim has written about countries in the Western hemisphere, as well as India and China. I like it. It makes the book more credible to me.
Read the book. I strongly recommend it.
October 16, 2019
Smedley's work on air pollution was very information but his style was a bit too dry for me. Living in Delhi, I've relatively well aware of the harmful impact of air pollution on humans.
Smedly lays out his case in a thorough and systematic manner which surprisingly made it a tad too complex. He explores the origins of air pollution through archaeological evidence, devotes a chapter on the chemistry of the key particulates and then moves on to the drivers and solutions.
This book is recommended for professionals working on the topic of air pollution. For the others, I'd suggest reading a WHO bulletin.
Smedly lays out his case in a thorough and systematic manner which surprisingly made it a tad too complex. He explores the origins of air pollution through archaeological evidence, devotes a chapter on the chemistry of the key particulates and then moves on to the drivers and solutions.
This book is recommended for professionals working on the topic of air pollution. For the others, I'd suggest reading a WHO bulletin.
December 17, 2025
I just finished Clearing the Air by Tim Smedley, and it was absolutely worth it. It’s the third book I read from Bill Gates’ winter recommendations (I don’t follow every pick, but I do follow many of them), and this one really delivered.
What I liked most is how the author puts air pollution in context: it’s not only a modern problem—it begins as soon as humans start using fire, and over thousands of years we’ve kept adding new sources of smoke, gases, and particles that affect health and daily life.
The city examples were especially interesting. Mexico City is portrayed as a real success story compared with the 1990s, thanks to measures like “Hoy No Circula,” even if we still experience a handful of shutdown/contingency days each year. Beijing is another striking case: from the heavy smog years to major improvements more recently, even if it still doesn’t fully meet WHO guidelines.
The book also discusses how several European cities are already restricting diesel vehicles and planning to phase out gasoline cars in the future. That hit home for me: I switched to hybrid cars about eight years ago, and my next one will probably be electric.
Overall, a thoughtful, practical book that makes you reflect on what cities and individuals can do to leave cleaner air for ourselves and our children.
What I liked most is how the author puts air pollution in context: it’s not only a modern problem—it begins as soon as humans start using fire, and over thousands of years we’ve kept adding new sources of smoke, gases, and particles that affect health and daily life.
The city examples were especially interesting. Mexico City is portrayed as a real success story compared with the 1990s, thanks to measures like “Hoy No Circula,” even if we still experience a handful of shutdown/contingency days each year. Beijing is another striking case: from the heavy smog years to major improvements more recently, even if it still doesn’t fully meet WHO guidelines.
The book also discusses how several European cities are already restricting diesel vehicles and planning to phase out gasoline cars in the future. That hit home for me: I switched to hybrid cars about eight years ago, and my next one will probably be electric.
Overall, a thoughtful, practical book that makes you reflect on what cities and individuals can do to leave cleaner air for ourselves and our children.
December 28, 2021
1 quyển sách rất có ích thích hợp cho việc rèn luyện kỹ năng tư duy phản biện và nhìn sâu vấn đề theo nhiều hướng. Vấn đề môi trường ngoài việc liên quan đến vấn đề sức khoẻ của cá nhân và cộng đồng, còn rất nhiều vấn đề nằm tiềm tàng trong nó, ảnh hưởng nhiều đến kinh tế và xã hội cũng như lợi ích cá nhân và lợi ích toàn cầu.
Những chương đầu của sách, mình có tự nghi vấn rằng có lẽ do tác giả là người Châu Âu nên cách suy nghĩ đặt vấn đề và đối tượng hướng đến cũng sẽ chỉ riêng cho những nước phát triển thôi. Nhưng may thay là những biện pháp trong sách cũng khá hay ho và hoàn toàn có thể áp dụng được cho những đang phát triển như Đông Nam Á. Tuy nhiên vẫn rất khó khăn để có thể đi đến bước hành động.
1 câu rất hay của trong sách: Những người đang đặt việc bảo vệ sức khoẻ lên trên lợi ích kinh tế vốn dĩ đã được bảo vệ sức khoẻ rồi…. Một sự thật không thể nào đúng hơn…
Anw cách Tim truyền đạt và phân phối các chương sách rất ưng ý, như kiểu một sự thần giao cách cảm là khi bạn đọc xong trang này, bạn nảy ra 1 câu hỏi, và y như rằng anh ấy sẽ trả lời đúng câu hỏi của bạn trong trang hoặc chương sau. Bonus thêm rằng nguồn cảm hứng để nghiên cứu của Tim xuất phát từ con gái của mình <3
Những chương đầu của sách, mình có tự nghi vấn rằng có lẽ do tác giả là người Châu Âu nên cách suy nghĩ đặt vấn đề và đối tượng hướng đến cũng sẽ chỉ riêng cho những nước phát triển thôi. Nhưng may thay là những biện pháp trong sách cũng khá hay ho và hoàn toàn có thể áp dụng được cho những đang phát triển như Đông Nam Á. Tuy nhiên vẫn rất khó khăn để có thể đi đến bước hành động.
1 câu rất hay của trong sách: Những người đang đặt việc bảo vệ sức khoẻ lên trên lợi ích kinh tế vốn dĩ đã được bảo vệ sức khoẻ rồi…. Một sự thật không thể nào đúng hơn…
Anw cách Tim truyền đạt và phân phối các chương sách rất ưng ý, như kiểu một sự thần giao cách cảm là khi bạn đọc xong trang này, bạn nảy ra 1 câu hỏi, và y như rằng anh ấy sẽ trả lời đúng câu hỏi của bạn trong trang hoặc chương sau. Bonus thêm rằng nguồn cảm hứng để nghiên cứu của Tim xuất phát từ con gái của mình <3
April 18, 2019
This was a really well researched look at air pollution. I learned a lot!
A few chapters I had a hard time getting through so I knocked a star off.
It’s something everyone should think about, especially if you live in a heavily polluted area. I’m glad this book was written and the author spent time researching this topic.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A few chapters I had a hard time getting through so I knocked a star off.
It’s something everyone should think about, especially if you live in a heavily polluted area. I’m glad this book was written and the author spent time researching this topic.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2019
Air pollution is one of the most important and least understood issues of our time. While any attention to such an important cause is fantastic, this book stinks.
Sorry.
Sorry.
June 1, 2021
In retrospect, this would be a wonderful audiobook. I think the book started as a program on BBC radio.
This is probably the most comprehensive writing on air pollution. It’s a bit dense to read because the written version doesn’t have any graphs or or charts, but the info and statistics are well researched and trustworthy.
This is probably the most comprehensive writing on air pollution. It’s a bit dense to read because the written version doesn’t have any graphs or or charts, but the info and statistics are well researched and trustworthy.
definitive-tbr
May 5, 2019Thank you so much, Bloomsbury India, for sending in a review copy!
May 10, 2019
Clearing the Air
This is a very important book that aims to reduce & most probably an attempt to terminate air pollution. We all know how pollution is a serious threat to mankind. In ancient times, the environment used to be balanced & clean. In our grandparents or parents times, we didn't have much threats pertaining to pollution. Even during our earlier days, especially in our childhood, we never encountered any issues. Whatever it was, it was upto negligible amounts. People earlier never in their wildest dreams thoughts about buying basic amenities like water which is essential for survival. It used to be available to everyone in copious amounts - as it was supplied continously by nature. Though it's a non-renewable source of energy which is being continually replenished by nature. However, due to our excessive use in an extensive manner - natural resources have got depleted in an abnormal rate, due to which all the abundant resources which were available to us easily - have now become extremely scarce. And now we've to buy water to quench our thirst - to avoid ailments. We've to install water purifiers to drink safe water, else we'll fall sick due to the contamination of nature & it's resources. Similarly, at this rate - the day isn't far when we've to buy air to breathe as well. At the rate at which technology is improving & the air getting polluted due to the rise of vehicles as more people are able to afford it. More & more new vehicles are being launched to the market due to the high use & thus demand leads to greater production. Hence, the greater rate of air pollution. So the day isn't far when we've to carry oxygen cylinders & refill it regularly like how we do for our locomotives in petrol bumps. Like the ones we see in hospitals, where sick patients have to pay to breathe pure oxygen free of all contamination.
So it's a serious issue considering the fact that we've taken everything for granted. As the facts given in the book, 1000s die every year from air-pollution-related-sickness. There're many airborne illnesses. It arises from toxic smog, photochemical smog, oxides of nitrogen, carbon & sulphur, ammonia, ozone, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, methane, particulate matters, smoke from burning, burnt diesel & many countless factors which amplifies & acts as a catalyst in this process. The books presents an insight on many technical, scientific & chemistry related stuffs pertaining to greenhouse gases, particles, etc. Ask a patient who's contracted with bronchitis or asthma or anyone with breathing ailments - how much pure air means to them. It's time we do something about it, take a stand against pollution, other than just posting on social media.
Each chapters covers a topic & the causes of pollution. It relates to the major cities of the world where pollution is prevalent. I particularly liked the chapters 'Life's a gas,' 'No smoke without fire', 'Struggling to breathe.'
In the later chapters, it explores the solutions & how people fought pollution.
Written well, I got teleported to my school days during my higher education, higher secondary classes when I used to read these topics under chemistry, geography, etc. Narration is good. A good onetime nonfiction book to read!
Blurb is given below.
Air pollution has become the world's greatest environmental health risk, and science is only beginning to reveal its wide-ranging effects. Globally, 19,000 people die each day from air pollution, killing more than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and car accidents combined.
What happened to the air we breathe?
Sustainability journalist Tim Smedley has travelled the world to try and find the answer, visiting cities at the forefront of the fight against air pollution, including Delhi, Beijing, London and Paris. With insights from the scientists and politicians leading the battle against it, and people whose lives have been affected by it, Clearing the Air tells the full story of air pollution for the first time: what it is, which pollutants are harmful, where they come from and - most importantly - what we can do about them.
Air pollution is a problem that can be solved. The stories uncovered on this journey show us how.
Clearing the Air is essential reading for anyone who cares about the air they breathe. And this much becomes clear: in the fight against air pollution, we all have a part to play. The fightback has begun.
This is a very important book that aims to reduce & most probably an attempt to terminate air pollution. We all know how pollution is a serious threat to mankind. In ancient times, the environment used to be balanced & clean. In our grandparents or parents times, we didn't have much threats pertaining to pollution. Even during our earlier days, especially in our childhood, we never encountered any issues. Whatever it was, it was upto negligible amounts. People earlier never in their wildest dreams thoughts about buying basic amenities like water which is essential for survival. It used to be available to everyone in copious amounts - as it was supplied continously by nature. Though it's a non-renewable source of energy which is being continually replenished by nature. However, due to our excessive use in an extensive manner - natural resources have got depleted in an abnormal rate, due to which all the abundant resources which were available to us easily - have now become extremely scarce. And now we've to buy water to quench our thirst - to avoid ailments. We've to install water purifiers to drink safe water, else we'll fall sick due to the contamination of nature & it's resources. Similarly, at this rate - the day isn't far when we've to buy air to breathe as well. At the rate at which technology is improving & the air getting polluted due to the rise of vehicles as more people are able to afford it. More & more new vehicles are being launched to the market due to the high use & thus demand leads to greater production. Hence, the greater rate of air pollution. So the day isn't far when we've to carry oxygen cylinders & refill it regularly like how we do for our locomotives in petrol bumps. Like the ones we see in hospitals, where sick patients have to pay to breathe pure oxygen free of all contamination.
So it's a serious issue considering the fact that we've taken everything for granted. As the facts given in the book, 1000s die every year from air-pollution-related-sickness. There're many airborne illnesses. It arises from toxic smog, photochemical smog, oxides of nitrogen, carbon & sulphur, ammonia, ozone, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, methane, particulate matters, smoke from burning, burnt diesel & many countless factors which amplifies & acts as a catalyst in this process. The books presents an insight on many technical, scientific & chemistry related stuffs pertaining to greenhouse gases, particles, etc. Ask a patient who's contracted with bronchitis or asthma or anyone with breathing ailments - how much pure air means to them. It's time we do something about it, take a stand against pollution, other than just posting on social media.
Each chapters covers a topic & the causes of pollution. It relates to the major cities of the world where pollution is prevalent. I particularly liked the chapters 'Life's a gas,' 'No smoke without fire', 'Struggling to breathe.'
In the later chapters, it explores the solutions & how people fought pollution.
Written well, I got teleported to my school days during my higher education, higher secondary classes when I used to read these topics under chemistry, geography, etc. Narration is good. A good onetime nonfiction book to read!
Blurb is given below.
Air pollution has become the world's greatest environmental health risk, and science is only beginning to reveal its wide-ranging effects. Globally, 19,000 people die each day from air pollution, killing more than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and car accidents combined.
What happened to the air we breathe?
Sustainability journalist Tim Smedley has travelled the world to try and find the answer, visiting cities at the forefront of the fight against air pollution, including Delhi, Beijing, London and Paris. With insights from the scientists and politicians leading the battle against it, and people whose lives have been affected by it, Clearing the Air tells the full story of air pollution for the first time: what it is, which pollutants are harmful, where they come from and - most importantly - what we can do about them.
Air pollution is a problem that can be solved. The stories uncovered on this journey show us how.
Clearing the Air is essential reading for anyone who cares about the air they breathe. And this much becomes clear: in the fight against air pollution, we all have a part to play. The fightback has begun.
June 7, 2019
Firstly, I thank Bloomsbury India for giving me an opportunity to read and review a book on air pollution and climate change, the two most important issues which barely crosses the mind of the the postmodern man today.
While I was reading The Prologue to the book, I was reminded of an emotional scene from Zack Snyder's Man of Steel, when Clark Kent returns to his home in Smallville and his foster mother Martha tells him,
"When you were a baby, I used to lay by your crib at night, listening to you breathe. It was hard for you. You struggled."
And then I asked myself, "Was it only because he was a Kryptonian? Or did air pollution had something to do with his breathing too?"
No. I am not kidding.
To not be able to breathe properly is an inexpressible pain. You can neither force your body to breathe in, now can you describe how you feel. I have been in a similar situation multiple times since September 2013. I have been combating this ailment for about 6 years now. And I believe it is books like Smedley's Cleaning The Air that can make us realise the horrors of automobile emissions and deforestation. It is high time that we did something worthwhile for the sake of the air we breathe and the future who will.
Smedley does a brilliant job as a writer and sustainability journalist. His analytical and observant mind finds expression in his Prologue itself. In fact, it is the Prologue to Clearing The Air that got me hooked to the book from the very beginning. And that is the first reason why I enjoyed reading the book. Secondly, this book is not a leisure read at all. Clearing The Air is a book that should be prescribed by all schools and colleges, as well as by bloggers who influence bookworms social butterflies all around the world. It is descriptive and instructive at the same time; Clearing The Air provides a detailed context, bringing forth a holistic approach towards mitigating air pollution and global warming; followed by an in-depth research on the various ways of combating pollution and Thirdly, the author presents the plot by beginning with a life experience. It is universally acknowledged that nonfiction books are convincing if they include experiences from reality. Smedley does not leave the book like an instruction manual to cleaning the air we breathe, but substantiates his views with facts, figures and life events. The language he uses is decently informal, and that's what makes the book an exceptional nonfiction based on environmental issues. In fact, Smedley is witty enough to uphold the very vice because of which most of us don't care about the environment — our self-centred nature. He appropriates this exact way to encourage people to keep their spaces free from pollution in the ways described in his book. With the book landing on a multitude of human palms, it is certain that the confluence of efforts made by these self-centred individuals will eventually culminate into a movement, and later evolve into a segment of our lifestyle. Hence, the tone is easy, the language simple and lucid — perfect for any nonfiction narrative. Yet, the best part about Clearing The Air is the seriousness attached to the narrative. Smedley's writing carries ripples of anxiety and anger throughout the work; all being directed to mankind's inability to stop pollution of all kinds. We have already started to pay the prices, and it isn't long enough till we go bankrupt. It is the grave undertone of Smedley's words that will leave an indelible impression of concern.
We have all dodged ecological problems just like we have ignored studying EVS (environmental studies) at school, because it is "not a big deal" for us. However, we have remained ignorant to the fact that we are responsible for the environmental conditions. It is our responsibility, after all, to look after the place we all dwell in. I am glad that I could learn so much about the world around me, and the issues we can tackle accurately. I convey my best wishes to the author for his future endeavours.
While I was reading The Prologue to the book, I was reminded of an emotional scene from Zack Snyder's Man of Steel, when Clark Kent returns to his home in Smallville and his foster mother Martha tells him,
"When you were a baby, I used to lay by your crib at night, listening to you breathe. It was hard for you. You struggled."
And then I asked myself, "Was it only because he was a Kryptonian? Or did air pollution had something to do with his breathing too?"
No. I am not kidding.
To not be able to breathe properly is an inexpressible pain. You can neither force your body to breathe in, now can you describe how you feel. I have been in a similar situation multiple times since September 2013. I have been combating this ailment for about 6 years now. And I believe it is books like Smedley's Cleaning The Air that can make us realise the horrors of automobile emissions and deforestation. It is high time that we did something worthwhile for the sake of the air we breathe and the future who will.
Smedley does a brilliant job as a writer and sustainability journalist. His analytical and observant mind finds expression in his Prologue itself. In fact, it is the Prologue to Clearing The Air that got me hooked to the book from the very beginning. And that is the first reason why I enjoyed reading the book. Secondly, this book is not a leisure read at all. Clearing The Air is a book that should be prescribed by all schools and colleges, as well as by bloggers who influence bookworms social butterflies all around the world. It is descriptive and instructive at the same time; Clearing The Air provides a detailed context, bringing forth a holistic approach towards mitigating air pollution and global warming; followed by an in-depth research on the various ways of combating pollution and Thirdly, the author presents the plot by beginning with a life experience. It is universally acknowledged that nonfiction books are convincing if they include experiences from reality. Smedley does not leave the book like an instruction manual to cleaning the air we breathe, but substantiates his views with facts, figures and life events. The language he uses is decently informal, and that's what makes the book an exceptional nonfiction based on environmental issues. In fact, Smedley is witty enough to uphold the very vice because of which most of us don't care about the environment — our self-centred nature. He appropriates this exact way to encourage people to keep their spaces free from pollution in the ways described in his book. With the book landing on a multitude of human palms, it is certain that the confluence of efforts made by these self-centred individuals will eventually culminate into a movement, and later evolve into a segment of our lifestyle. Hence, the tone is easy, the language simple and lucid — perfect for any nonfiction narrative. Yet, the best part about Clearing The Air is the seriousness attached to the narrative. Smedley's writing carries ripples of anxiety and anger throughout the work; all being directed to mankind's inability to stop pollution of all kinds. We have already started to pay the prices, and it isn't long enough till we go bankrupt. It is the grave undertone of Smedley's words that will leave an indelible impression of concern.
We have all dodged ecological problems just like we have ignored studying EVS (environmental studies) at school, because it is "not a big deal" for us. However, we have remained ignorant to the fact that we are responsible for the environmental conditions. It is our responsibility, after all, to look after the place we all dwell in. I am glad that I could learn so much about the world around me, and the issues we can tackle accurately. I convey my best wishes to the author for his future endeavours.
July 1, 2023
This is a good book that gives us detailed explanation WHY we need to get rid of all internal combustion engines, especially the Diesel kind, as much and as fast as possible for the sake of us all and our children. The information about nanoparticulates, most of which comes from Diesel engine, that can enter our blood stream directly from our lungs and cause clogging of various kinds that are as bad as blood clot is particularly frightening.
But then I used to watch a few documentary programs (from DW News and Al Jazeera channels) that the race for battery for EV will cause a different kind of pollution caused me a big worry. I hope some authors will write books about this as well in the near future.
One thing I read from this book and wish the author would have written in more details is WHY the air pollution measurement device that he uses is reliable in its working. It appears to me that author has a blind faith in it. The fact that these devices are made in large amount does not means it is reliable - think of the Diesel engine that people used to think it is a good one as described in this book.
In summary, the author does his best in educating his readers on air pollution and the way to tackle it. I hope key people in all governments world wide would read or attend a seminar based on the content of this book to keep themselves up t0 date on this matter and do what is right.
Anyone who are interested in reading another enlightening book in a similar vein (on water, this time), I wholeheartedly recommend this one : The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water (A book about consumable water written by an author named Fishman! :-)
But then I used to watch a few documentary programs (from DW News and Al Jazeera channels) that the race for battery for EV will cause a different kind of pollution caused me a big worry. I hope some authors will write books about this as well in the near future.
One thing I read from this book and wish the author would have written in more details is WHY the air pollution measurement device that he uses is reliable in its working. It appears to me that author has a blind faith in it. The fact that these devices are made in large amount does not means it is reliable - think of the Diesel engine that people used to think it is a good one as described in this book.
In summary, the author does his best in educating his readers on air pollution and the way to tackle it. I hope key people in all governments world wide would read or attend a seminar based on the content of this book to keep themselves up t0 date on this matter and do what is right.
Anyone who are interested in reading another enlightening book in a similar vein (on water, this time), I wholeheartedly recommend this one : The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water (A book about consumable water written by an author named Fishman! :-)
April 19, 2020
This book gave me a bigger perspective on pieces of our air pollution dilemma.
1 baby step we can all take is to turn the car off if you're just sitting in it, waiting, or reading texts. Don't idle. Gas may be cheap to buy right now, but it's expensive for our health.
The OECD believes that global air pollution-related healthcare costs for its member countries will increase from $21 billion in 2015 to $176 billion in 2060, while welfare costs would be well into the trillions. UN figures in 2016 show that air pollution across Europe is already costing $1.6
trillion a year in deaths and diseases, nearly one-tenth of Europe's gross domestic product; in 10 European countries, the cost was above 20 % of GDP.
Andy Eastlake “If by 2050, rather than having 35 million petrol and diesel cars on the road we have 40 million electric vehicles on the road, we will have failed...we will be gridlocked. So, what we’ve got to do is change the whole model of mobility and ownership.”
~ To reduce emissions in our cities, the private car in the driveway can no longer be the automatic go-to option. People often use the car because it is there, it is easy and they are already paying for it.
We continue to fund coal companies, which are no longer profitable, without government support, because they have entrenched and powerful political lobbies: in Europe, at least 3.3 Billion Euros per year is provided annually in financial support to private (not state-owned) coal-mining companies alone….Countries spend a huge amount importing coal and oil; remember that a third of all shipping is simply transporting oil around the globe.
1 baby step we can all take is to turn the car off if you're just sitting in it, waiting, or reading texts. Don't idle. Gas may be cheap to buy right now, but it's expensive for our health.
The OECD believes that global air pollution-related healthcare costs for its member countries will increase from $21 billion in 2015 to $176 billion in 2060, while welfare costs would be well into the trillions. UN figures in 2016 show that air pollution across Europe is already costing $1.6
trillion a year in deaths and diseases, nearly one-tenth of Europe's gross domestic product; in 10 European countries, the cost was above 20 % of GDP.
Andy Eastlake “If by 2050, rather than having 35 million petrol and diesel cars on the road we have 40 million electric vehicles on the road, we will have failed...we will be gridlocked. So, what we’ve got to do is change the whole model of mobility and ownership.”
~ To reduce emissions in our cities, the private car in the driveway can no longer be the automatic go-to option. People often use the car because it is there, it is easy and they are already paying for it.
We continue to fund coal companies, which are no longer profitable, without government support, because they have entrenched and powerful political lobbies: in Europe, at least 3.3 Billion Euros per year is provided annually in financial support to private (not state-owned) coal-mining companies alone….Countries spend a huge amount importing coal and oil; remember that a third of all shipping is simply transporting oil around the globe.
July 22, 2021
Might be biased as I've been 'indoctrinated' by the likes of Simon Birkett (Clean Air in London), Jeff Smith (on Air Pollution) or Sotirios Papathanasiou (who built quite an outlet around See The Air, with an engaging podcast and whose book I've not read (yet)). As such I'm familiar with Tim Smedley articles (especially these in Guardian, written in a rather distinctive attention G-rabbing style.. Thus, form me this book was a rather repetitive account of what I'd thought should be already familiar to people who care (and have time to do so) about cities in which they live (as far as Smedley goes it's fine to put coal powered power-plant somewhere outside the city 😉). The solutions mentioned are rather simplistic and city focused too - cut emission, introduce policies, hope for science to come up with solution as you throw money at the problem. On top of that it was read (audiobook) by lector whose attempts at reading quoted passages IMHO arrived as if he was mocking those quoted.
It's important book, it's worth reading, sadly it doesn't bring much new to the discussion. It does consolidate a few articles in a form of a book, without particular care for content organisation, structure, etc.
I guess I'm just no the target audience. As it's marketing clear air to unconverted, for that it's 5/5😉
It's important book, it's worth reading, sadly it doesn't bring much new to the discussion. It does consolidate a few articles in a form of a book, without particular care for content organisation, structure, etc.
I guess I'm just no the target audience. As it's marketing clear air to unconverted, for that it's 5/5😉
March 23, 2023
The first half of this book was really good for me, four stars. The second half was two stars, thus the average of three stars. The first half of the book gives a great overview of what we should care about when it comes to air pollution. It breaks down the problem constituents, where they come from and what they do to us. This is a great resource for understanding air pollution. I enjoyed learning what his particulate matter (PM) egg reading would discover in different places. My biggest takeaway is that PM matters a great deal to our health, and the smaller the PM the worse. PM 2.5 (matter less than 2.5 microns in width) is the particular bad level of PM. Airnow.gov is a good resource to understand the air quality around you at any given time.
The second half of the book is Smedley talking about various cities and what can be done to improve things. He has lots of ideas, but needs a huge dose of reality, a la Vaclav Smil (How the World Really Works). Smedley is very enthusiastic about moving away from polluting gases, and doing that by having everything electrified, and this electricity coming from renewable sources. This is a great goal, but we are super far from this being reality, and Smedley just doesn't realize or acknowledge this. All of his advice depends on electricity coming from renewable sources, but he doesn't talk much about how that will happen, indeed because it won't happen easily or soon. His advice is also for those living in the few very major cities in the world, not much for those living in suburban or rural locations.
The second half of the book is Smedley talking about various cities and what can be done to improve things. He has lots of ideas, but needs a huge dose of reality, a la Vaclav Smil (How the World Really Works). Smedley is very enthusiastic about moving away from polluting gases, and doing that by having everything electrified, and this electricity coming from renewable sources. This is a great goal, but we are super far from this being reality, and Smedley just doesn't realize or acknowledge this. All of his advice depends on electricity coming from renewable sources, but he doesn't talk much about how that will happen, indeed because it won't happen easily or soon. His advice is also for those living in the few very major cities in the world, not much for those living in suburban or rural locations.
September 16, 2024
I think it's by no surprise to anyone that there is a horrible epidemic of pollution. I think the author did a good job in illustrating just how bad the situation is, as if there isn't enough to worry about today.
The number one pollutant? Vehicles. Who would've guessed. I think everyone could've figured that one out. Don't forget, they also produce noise and extra light pollution.
I understand this book is about the air itself, but it could touch upon so much more. The real problem is cars, and the solution does not mean clean cars.
This problem is not isolated in it of itself. The majority of CO2 emissions are from vehicles. They also take up alot of land space, precious in cities.
There could be so many case studies and solutions of areas like the Netherlands has no cars, and walkable cities, that naturally, do not require any cars at all, ICE or EV, that the pollution problem does not happen at all. Neither the CO2, Precious materials mined, expensive tech to support these infrastructures. Unfortunately, the current modern cities are set in stone, and unless another disaster happens to cities in which they need to rebuild, they are not incentivised to create walkable, bikable cities with EV trams, trains, buses widely available. We are stuck with Electrifying our problems, which, I guess is good enough for now.
There is a clear glorification of Elon musk and Tesla in this book on the EV chapter, just like to point out.
The number one pollutant? Vehicles. Who would've guessed. I think everyone could've figured that one out. Don't forget, they also produce noise and extra light pollution.
I understand this book is about the air itself, but it could touch upon so much more. The real problem is cars, and the solution does not mean clean cars.
This problem is not isolated in it of itself. The majority of CO2 emissions are from vehicles. They also take up alot of land space, precious in cities.
There could be so many case studies and solutions of areas like the Netherlands has no cars, and walkable cities, that naturally, do not require any cars at all, ICE or EV, that the pollution problem does not happen at all. Neither the CO2, Precious materials mined, expensive tech to support these infrastructures. Unfortunately, the current modern cities are set in stone, and unless another disaster happens to cities in which they need to rebuild, they are not incentivised to create walkable, bikable cities with EV trams, trains, buses widely available. We are stuck with Electrifying our problems, which, I guess is good enough for now.
There is a clear glorification of Elon musk and Tesla in this book on the EV chapter, just like to point out.
August 7, 2019
Clearing the Air explores air pollution in England, the US, China, and India. Smedley talks about not only the causes of pollution but also potential solutions. Unlike many books on this topic, Smedly discusses the science in an easy-to-understand way. Clearing the Air also stands out because Smedly visited cities that are implementing climate change solutions, with varying degrees of success.
I lived in Shanghai during the tail end of the "Airpocalypse." Although it may sound like Smedly is exaggerating if you've never experienced that level of pollution. I assure you he is not. The smog was so thick we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces, and the filters in our masks were black after mere minutes outside. My school eventually canceled classes when the AQI reached 700. When I left China last year (2018), the air had improved dramatically. With "clean air" days far outnumbering smoggy days. Clean-air practices are effective, but is the world's population willing to change its behavior?
Smedley's thorough research leaves me confident that we still have the ability to "clear the air", as long as we act fast. Seeing as there are measurable negative health effects related to polluted air (affecting not only adult lungs, but also growing children's brains), I'm surprised more countries and companies aren't already implementing changes.
I lived in Shanghai during the tail end of the "Airpocalypse." Although it may sound like Smedly is exaggerating if you've never experienced that level of pollution. I assure you he is not. The smog was so thick we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces, and the filters in our masks were black after mere minutes outside. My school eventually canceled classes when the AQI reached 700. When I left China last year (2018), the air had improved dramatically. With "clean air" days far outnumbering smoggy days. Clean-air practices are effective, but is the world's population willing to change its behavior?
Smedley's thorough research leaves me confident that we still have the ability to "clear the air", as long as we act fast. Seeing as there are measurable negative health effects related to polluted air (affecting not only adult lungs, but also growing children's brains), I'm surprised more countries and companies aren't already implementing changes.
December 20, 2020
Những cuốn nonfic không khô khan mà tiếp cận những sự thật gây shock luôn cuốn hút mình, và Giành lại không khí sạch là 1 trong số đó. Cũng như những độc giả, Tim Smedley đi từ 1 số 0 tròn trĩnh về những vấn đề ô nhiễm khí quyển, và ông chỉ cảm nhận được nó khi người con gái của mình ra đời, để giành lại 1 thứ nào đó cho thế hệ này và những thế hệ sau.
Với Giành lại không khí sạch, Tim Smidley đi qua 4 địa cực ô nhiễm lớn nhất trên toàn thế giới: London, Dehli, LA và Bắc Kinh. Cùng với những nghiên cứu khoa học độc lập song song, những cuộc phỏng vấn với các chính trị gia, các nhà khoa học... Giành lại không khí sạch là chuyến tàu tổng quan đi từ lịch sử văn minh nhân loại, khi loài homo sapiens dùng lửa một cách gián đoạn và những di chỉ cho thấy những căn bệnh về xương đến những năm 50 với bầu Đại sương mù London. Từ đó, Tim đi sâu tìm hiểu các nhân tố gây ô nhiễm, các tác động đến sức khỏe, các chương trình hành động của các chính phủ và hơn hết là đáp án của sự mâu thuẫn giữa lợi ích kinh tế và sức khỏe, liệu bên nào cần thiết hơn?
Dễ đọc, dễ hiểu, dễ quan tâm và theo dõi sát sao; Giành lại không khí sạch là cuốn nonfic tuyệt vời và vừa đủ về cách chung ta nhìn nhận ô nhiễm khí quyển. Highly recommend!
Với Giành lại không khí sạch, Tim Smidley đi qua 4 địa cực ô nhiễm lớn nhất trên toàn thế giới: London, Dehli, LA và Bắc Kinh. Cùng với những nghiên cứu khoa học độc lập song song, những cuộc phỏng vấn với các chính trị gia, các nhà khoa học... Giành lại không khí sạch là chuyến tàu tổng quan đi từ lịch sử văn minh nhân loại, khi loài homo sapiens dùng lửa một cách gián đoạn và những di chỉ cho thấy những căn bệnh về xương đến những năm 50 với bầu Đại sương mù London. Từ đó, Tim đi sâu tìm hiểu các nhân tố gây ô nhiễm, các tác động đến sức khỏe, các chương trình hành động của các chính phủ và hơn hết là đáp án của sự mâu thuẫn giữa lợi ích kinh tế và sức khỏe, liệu bên nào cần thiết hơn?
Dễ đọc, dễ hiểu, dễ quan tâm và theo dõi sát sao; Giành lại không khí sạch là cuốn nonfic tuyệt vời và vừa đủ về cách chung ta nhìn nhận ô nhiễm khí quyển. Highly recommend!
July 16, 2020
Highly recommended for anyone living in a city. Recommended for parents. Approach is different than a climate change book. This argues that local rules can help clean the air of immediate vicinity. It says that if u are driving a diesel vehicle with rolled up windows and thinking it is not effecting you then u are in for a surprise. Talks about the sorry state of regulatory affairs in Delhi, the disinformation campaign. Book states that the particles that we see are in PM10 range, the bigger issue is PM2.5 and below that can't be seen. Also there is nothing called clean diesel. All such ads are propaganda of automobile companies. Cities examples of how regulatory and governance lapses in Delhi, Europe, Beijing led to the sorry state of Air.
June 9, 2019
This is a fantastic reference guide on a topic that is relevant to pretty much everybody that is alive today. I think it should be mandatory reading for anybody that has a pulse. Tim Smedley is able to take a somewhat complex topic and make it reasonable to read and understand. Some of the technical information in regards to nano particulates is still a little dense and can be overwhelming unless you work specifically in that field, but overall the info is presented in an easy to read format. Tim Smedley travels the world giving us insight into how pollution affects different populations and what governments are doing to fight it.A must read. Novel supplied by Netgalley.
July 22, 2019
*I received this book from NetGalley in return for a honest review*
Like many people I am very concerned about the way this world is headed, and how us humans are negatively affecting the place that we should be protecting. This book goes into the problem of air pollution, how it has increased over the past century, and some of the ways that we are trying to fix the problem. While this book could have been incredibly dry, by using personal anecdotes and stories Tim is able to make it more interesting and I was able to come out the book a bit hopeful for what some people are doing to help the environment when most people are working at trying to end it as fast as possible.
Like many people I am very concerned about the way this world is headed, and how us humans are negatively affecting the place that we should be protecting. This book goes into the problem of air pollution, how it has increased over the past century, and some of the ways that we are trying to fix the problem. While this book could have been incredibly dry, by using personal anecdotes and stories Tim is able to make it more interesting and I was able to come out the book a bit hopeful for what some people are doing to help the environment when most people are working at trying to end it as fast as possible.
September 7, 2023
This book is overwhelmingly positive and hopeful, always looking to the future. It gives clear, well argued examples of successes and failures in the fight against air pollution around the globe. Tim keeps it light with the occasional joke but doesn’t shy away from the statistics and science. The book never once lacks substance unlike a few popular science books I’ve read. I would urge anyone to read this. That being said, the statistics aren’t for everyone and be aware that at times the information can be quite concentrated. For me, this supported the reading however some may find it more trying.
May 1, 2025
3.5 rounded up. So first half of the book is incredibly enlightening, second half…dated. He lost me when he gave ONE line about the Congo mining lol like…it’s bad man!! For people and the environment. Electric vehicles will not save us! I took long to finish bc of his fawning over electric cars but he does slightly change his tone later saying we need to do more than convert but that was only after singing its praises sooo kinda hard to walk that back. But I still highly suggest for the first half alone. And if anyone has recs on books about how bad electric cars are (bc they are), I would love them! Hard to find out there.
May 27, 2019
This book really does provoke you to pay attention to your environment. All the damage you've been causing to this world. The Air we breathe is so polluted that it can cause deadly diseases. The Author has written this non-fiction in such a beautiful way that it does touch you and hits us that our air is really polluted way too much. This book should be really be read by all the people who are ready to make a change in the environment. In fact we all should realize it. It's our duty! All the detailed review in on my blog, www.coffeebeanread.wordpress.com
I rate this book a 4.5/5
I rate this book a 4.5/5
October 15, 2021
Overall, a thorough introduction to air pollution, what it is, what causes it, how it harms us, and some ideas for how we might get out of this mess. The author clearly and effectively describes air pollutants - gases and particulate matter - in a way that made more sense to me than other sources. Also, his recounting of the diesel scandal is sure to fire you up!
However, I have a major criticism: the author provided only the tiniest fraction of his references in the bibliography. Makes me hesitant to recommend this, despite liking the book :-(
However, I have a major criticism: the author provided only the tiniest fraction of his references in the bibliography. Makes me hesitant to recommend this, despite liking the book :-(
April 11, 2023
Really, really interesting subject, but I’m also more invested in this topic than the usual person since I started my career working in the realm of air pollution control. It’s definitely outdated, as human impacts are increasing and scientific advancements are happening all the time, but just as beneficial all the same. The general public isn’t as knowledgeable on air pollution as they should be, so everyone will learn at least something new.
May 29, 2019
I found this book very informative regarding air pollution and the measures that are being done to lessen or eradicate it. The information was presented in a manner that was easily accessible to the average person. Air pollution is something that isn't always at the forefront of public consciousness but it should be. Our health as well as the health of our planet is at stake.
September 22, 2019
Smedley makes the science of air pollution both crystal clear and compelling. The chapter on the health effects of air pollution may shock you—it did me. But the overall tone of the book is optimistic and inspiring. Reading this book has changed the way I think about the air we all breathe, and it will certainly influence my decisions and choices as well.
October 13, 2019
Great book with accessible context about the history of the problem of air pollution and the science of it. Really presses home the dangers. I wasn’t looking forward so much to the second half on the solutions fearing it might be a bit token but was impressed by how many positives there were to cover.
January 8, 2021
The writer has done a good job of taking you through all the basics of air pollution (PM2.5, nanoparticles etc.), it's causes and what cities around the world are doing about it. While reading this, it did occur to me that we just sometimes forget that we are essentially polluting all the time. An eye opener for sure ..
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