Recent studies have found a growing body of evidence linking the onset of dementia to air pollution exposure. Dementia is characterized by the progressive loss of intellectual and cognitive abilities, affecting memory, judgment, and language. This devastating disease affects millions of people worldwide, and with no known cure, researchers are seeking to uncover any environmental factors that may contribute to its development.
One such factor that has been receiving increasing attention in recent years is air pollution. According to several studies, including research with contributors from Imperial College London, air pollution exposure appears to be positively associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia.
A Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants (COMEAP) report estimates the long-term exposure to air pollution among participants, looking specifically at fine particulate matter (PM2.5). This pollution comes from wood burning and diesel emissions from cars and industrial engines.
The mechanisms by which air pollution contributes to brain damage are not yet clear, but there are a few theories based on existing research. One theory suggests that particulate matter and other pollutants can directly enter the bloodstream and affect the brain’s circulation and oxygen supply. Another idea is that these pollutants may lead to inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, damaging neurons and leading to cognitive decline.
While the link between air pollution and dementia is still being explored, governments and individuals have a role in reducing their exposure to air pollution. The UK government has acknowledged this link, issuing a report in 2022 that recognizes air pollution as a contributing factor to dementia incidence. The report outlines the need for a coordinated cross-government approach to reduce air pollution and mitigate its harmful effects on public health.
Individuals can take steps to reduce their exposure to air pollution, including avoiding busy roads during rush hour, using public transportation, or walking and cycling instead of driving. Moreover, individuals can demand that local governments reduce air pollution, such as investing in cleaner public transport systems and reducing industrial pollutant emissions.
Sources of air pollution
The sources of air pollution are diverse and can range from natural causes to human activities. One of the primary sources of air pollution is burning fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are used for various purposes, including transportation, industrial processes, and electricity generation. When these fuels are burned, they release pollutants, including sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. These pollutants can harm human health and contribute to smog and acid rain.
Transportation is a significant contributor to air pollution, particularly in urban areas. Cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles emit pollutants from their exhaust systems. The most significant pollutants released by transportation include nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
Other sources of air pollution include power generation, industrial processes, and natural causes like wildfires and dust storms. Power generation plants that burn fossil fuels emit pollutants like sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Industrial processes like manufacturing and mining can also release pollutants into the air. Natural causes like wildfires and dust storms can cause short-term spikes in air pollution levels.
Diesel emission scandals
The diesel emission scandals that rocked the automotive industry over the past few years have caused widespread concern and raised serious questions about the integrity of automakers. Volkswagen was known for producing affordable yet high-performance diesel cars that were popular worldwide. However, after being caught by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for using cheating software to circumvent strict environmental regulations, the carmaker faced a severe backlash from governments, customers, and environmentalists. VW had to pay billions in fines and emission compensation.
Diesel vehicles were once touted as a cleaner and more fuel-efficient alternative to gasoline. However, the revelation that some of the world’s largest automakers were cheating on emissions tests has shattered that image. Allegedly, one of these automakers was BMW.
BMW was one of several large automakers that were allegedly found to be manipulating emissions tests to meet stricter emissions regulations. The company was accused of installing software in its diesel vehicles to allow them to pass emissions tests while emitting far more pollution on the road than the tests had indicated.
The revelation of BMW’s cheating on emissions tests shocked many, as the company had spent years building a reputation for being environmentally friendly. The scandal raised significant questions about the company’s sustainability and environmental commitment. BMW diesel emission claims are still currently being pushed by several law firms across the UK.
French car manufacturer Renault was another major automaker involved in Dieselgate. The French government slapped the company with a €20 million (approximately £17.4 million) fine for failing to meet emissions standards. Renault’s share prices also hit as investors reacted to news of the fine and the company’s ongoing legal troubles.
Is my diesel claim eligible for compensation?
Since 2015, automotive manufacturers have issued hefty fines for falsely marketing and cheating on diesel emission tests. To determine if your diesel claim is eligible for compensation, you can consult ClaimExperts.co.uk for important facts about the process.
Be prepared to provide detailed information about your vehicle, including its make and model, manufacturing year, and any repairs or modifications that may have affected its emissions.
