Causes and Conflicts of Water and Air Pollution in Virginia and New York

Air and Water pollution is a serious issue all over the world. In Charlottesville, Virginia the air pollution is so bad that "1 in a 1000" people are at risk of cancer, and the ozone level is so severe it can damage lung tissue and lower the lung's ability to function properly.(Kearns) The water in Charlottesville is also in a bad condition because it is affected by nonpoint source pollution. There are many methods of dealing with this pollution which is an issue in many places.

The main form of air pollution in Charlottesville is from diesel emissions. The use of biodiesel or particulate traps would help reduce diesel emissions. Biodiesel fuel is a fuel made from waste grease and vegetable oil from crops. It can be used alone or mixed with petroleum diesel. Particulate traps are filters that are hooked up to the exhaust in order to trap particulate matter. I believe that the use of biodiesel would be more effective in Charlottesville because it can be used by all vehicles; where as particulate traps can only be used on large vehicles like buses and vans.

The ozone in Charlottesville Virginia is also in bad shape. In order to make the ozone safer there are many things that can be done. Conservation of electricity, the use of biodiesel, and not burning trash are all different ways to help decrease ozone depletion. I think the best method for helping the ozone would be conservation of electricity. I believe that instead of using electricity that comes from electric power generation solar panels can be implemented and used. I feel biodiesel will help, but it still releases toxins into the air so it is not as helpful as solar panels.