Air pollution in Los Angeles is a significant problem caused mainly by vehicle traffic and population growth, posing a serious threat to human lives. Several scientific studies have demonstrated the connection between air pollution and cancer, as well as its detrimental impact on pregnant women. Public service announcements advocate solutions like promoting public transportation usage and implementing sustainable housing. Due to the continuous population growth of Los Angeles, immediate action is necessary to tackle this issue.
Los Angeles faces challenges in tackling air pollution due to its growing population and the influx of Mexican immigrants. These factors are influenced by the city’s geographic location and higher quality of life. Furthermore, Los Angeles’ global reputation as a hub for entertainment, business, media, fashion, science, and education attracts a large number of people. As a result, the expanding population leads to increased congestion and more vehicles on the streets of Los Angeles.
With the rapid population growth, it is essential to have efficient solutions in place. Although improving public transportation can help alleviate congestion on roads, it is not a long-term solution. Nevertheless, it should be regarded as the initial step towards creating a sustainable Los Angeles. Moreover, solely relying on public transportation and eco-friendly housing cannot completely address air pollution; there are various other measures that must be put into practice.
Immigrants in Los Angeles are not heavily affected by air pollution as a result of their lower living conditions. This is primarily due to the fact that many immigrant families possess cars, which worsen the city’s air quality. Regrettably, a significant portion of these vehicles are not eco-friendly. Nonetheless, if public transportation becomes more readily available, immigrant families could opt for it as a substitute.
Public transportation provides individuals with financial advantages and has a favorable effect on the environment. It not only lessens the amount of vehicles on the road but also decreases the presence of older, hazardous automobiles. Nevertheless, depending solely on immigrants utilizing public transportation will not resolve Los Angeles’ air pollution problem since SUVs and cars with powerful engines in wealthier regions also play a role in this issue. It is important to highlight that Los Angeles is renowned as the hub for movie and show industries.
The city’s renown has drawn in numerous affluent individuals, compounding our predicament. In select areas of the city, prosperous households live opulent and extravagant lifestyles. It is customary for each family member to possess their own automobile, with SUVs and fuel-guzzling vehicles being favored options. Consequently, addressing this problem becomes more challenging as wealthier individuals are less inclined to utilize public transportation.
Efficient public transportation in Los Angeles is crucial for encouraging residents to use it, but the city’s vast size presents challenges. Improving the time efficiency of public transportation would make it a viable option for all residents. Additionally, promoting the use of hybrid cars can be a solution. The government has enacted laws and reduced taxes on hybrids, while California and other states have introduced incentives to support their adoption.
Both hybrid cars and vehicles that meet California’s Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standard are allowed to use carpool lanes on highways, with the goal of encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly automobiles. Furthermore, sustainable housing is vital in preserving resources, minimizing waste, and decreasing pollution. As urban populations increase, it becomes crucial to incorporate sustainable housing practices into urban development.
If it is not applied, air pollution would increase dramatically over time because more and more people need houses to stay in every day. Despite potential solutions, there is a question that must be asked: How did we get to this point? People do not truly care about nature. What is the reason behind this? People have begun to prioritize other things as life evolves. We are currently living in a money-oriented world. Day by day, people are becoming solely concerned with money. The reason for this is that money has become the only means to have a perfect life; or at least, most people have started to perceive it this way.
The pursuit of money and success has shifted the meaning of happiness, resulting in increased stress. This stress prompts individuals to disregard their previous values and prioritize material possessions. I argue that this shift in priorities is the primary driver behind pollution and other societal issues today. To effect positive change, it is imperative for us to reclaim control over our lives and alter our course. If we fail to make adjustments and modify our behavior, the lack of resolution will persist.
