From Engines to Health: The Public Health Impact of Internal Combustion Engines in the UK
The internal combustion engine (ICE) has powered the UK's vehicles for over a century. However, the environmental and public health impacts of these engines are becoming increasingly concerning.
The internal combustion engine (ICE) has powered the UK's vehicles for over a century. However, the environmental and public health impacts of these engines are becoming increasingly concerning. This article explores the public health impact of internal combustion engines, with a specific focus on the UK.
The Health Impact of Air Pollution from ICE Vehicles
Air pollution from ICE vehicles is a significant public health concern in the UK. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that 99% of the global population breathes air that exceeds WHO guideline limits, containing high levels of pollutants. The UK is no exception, with many urban areas regularly exceeding safe limits for air quality (1).
Particulate Matter and Volatile Organic Compounds
Particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are two major pollutants from ICE vehicles. PM, including the soot seen in vehicle exhaust, poses a serious threat to human health as they can penetrate deep into the lungs. VOCs, on the other hand, react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a main ingredient in smog. This gas irritates the respiratory system, causing coughing, choking, and reduced lung capacity (2).
Nitrogen Oxides and Carbon Monoxide
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) are other harmful pollutants emitted by ICE vehicles. NOx can cause lung irritation and weaken the body's defenses against respiratory infections such as pneumonia and influenza. CO, an odorless, colorless, and poisonous gas, blocks oxygen from the brain, heart, and other vital organs when inhaled (2).
The Impact on Vulnerable Populations in the UK
The health impact of air pollution from ICE vehicles is not evenly distributed across the UK. People in low-income communities and communities of color are disproportionately exposed to higher levels of air pollution. These communities are often located near heavily travelled roadways and can lack access to the resources to adapt to—or move away from—air pollution and climate-related damage (2).
The Role of Heavy-Duty Vehicles in the UK
Heavy-duty vehicles, such as lorries and buses, play a significant role in air pollution in the UK. Despite comprising only a small fraction of all vehicles on the road, they generate a substantial portion of the air pollution that comes from the transportation sector (2).
The Way Forward for the UK
Addressing the public health impact of ICE vehicles requires a multi-faceted approach. Transitioning to cleaner forms of transportation, such as Electric vehicles (EVs), can significantly reduce air pollution. EVs, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, are becoming increasingly popular. However, it's important to note that while they significantly reduce exhaust emissions, they still produce non-exhaust emissions, such as tyre and brake wear. Therefore, while the shift to EVs is a step in the right direction, it is not a complete solution to the problem of vehicle-related air pollution(3). Policies and investments from the UK government can accelerate this transition, improving air quality and reducing global warming emissions in communities around the country (2).
Conclusion
The public health impact of internal combustion engines is a pressing issue in the UK. As we continue to rely on these engines for our transportation needs, it's crucial to understand their health implications and work towards cleaner, healthier alternatives.
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