ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

What is the meaning of environmental quality?

Environmental quality is a general term which can refer to: varied characteristics
such as air and water purity or pollution, noise, access to open space, and the
visual effects of buildings, and the potential effects which such characteristics may
have on physical and mental health (caused by human activities).

Why is environmental quality important?

Environmental conditions affect human health, well-being and other quality of life
aspects, both directly, for instance through pollution, and indirectly, for example,
by having an impact on property prices that could in turn affect an individual's
economic prosperity.

Here are some health concerns with their steps for safety
 Asthma
Asthma is a respiratory condition marked by attacks of spasm in the bronchi of
the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. It is usually connected to allergic
reaction or other forms of hypersensitivity. If you have asthma, you may
experience some of the following symptoms:

 Wheezing sound when they breathe

 Breathlessness
 Tight chest

Asthma isn’t preventable, but there are measures you and you can take to
help reduce the symptoms. Triggers may include dust, exercise, house dust
mites, pollen and pets. Avoiding triggers that result in an episode of asthma is
an important part of treatment.
 Noise Pollution
Noise pollution significantly impacts public health. Research suggests it can
raise stress, affect mental health, and contribute to developing health issues
such as high blood pressure. Direct exposure to loud or persistent noise can
also lead to hearing impairment. Some examples of noise pollution sources
include trusted Source:

 Construction
 Motorized vehicles
 Crowds
 Concerts
 Aircraft

Impact on mental and physical health

Unwanted sounds can have a range of mental health effects. The brain is
always monitoring sounds for signs of danger, even during sleep. As a result,
frequent or loud noise can trigger anxiety or stress. With continued exposure
to noise pollution a person’s sensitivity to stress increases. People living with
noise pollution may feel irritable, on edge, frustrated, or angry. If a person
feels they cannot control the amount of noise in their environment, its impact
on their mental health intensifies. Environmental noise is also a common cause
of sleep disturbance. A person may experience:

 Difficulty falling asleep

 Inability to stay asleep
 Waking too early

Sounds can also reduce the depth and quality of sleep, this can impact a
person’s mood and ability to concentrate.

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