Haze and air pollution have become global concerns, affecting health, visibility, and daily life. Whether you're an English learner, a traveler, or someone interested in environmental issues, knowing the right vocabulary helps in understanding discussions about smog, pollution, and climate change. Below is a comprehensive list of key terms related to haze and air quality.

Basic Terms Related to Haze

Haze (n.)

A phenomenon where dust, smoke, and dry particles obscure the sky, reducing visibility. Unlike fog, haze is often caused by human activities like industrial emissions.

Example: "The city was covered in thick haze, making it hard to see beyond a few meters."

Smog (n.)

A mix of smoke and fog, primarily caused by vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and burning fossil fuels.

Example: "Heavy smog in Beijing has led to increased respiratory illnesses."

Particulate Matter (PM) (n.)

Tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air, classified by size:

• PM2.5 (≤ 2.5 microns) – Can penetrate deep into lungs.
• PM10 (≤ 10 microns) – Larger particles, still harmful.

Example: "PM2.5 levels exceeded safe limits, prompting health warnings."

Air Quality Index (AQI) (n.)

A measurement system indicating how polluted the air is, ranging from Good (0-50) to Hazardous (300+).

Example: "The AQI reached 250, meaning the air was very unhealthy."

Causes of Haze and Pollution

Emissions (n.)

Gases or particles released into the air, often from vehicles, factories, or power plants.

Example: "Strict regulations aim to reduce carbon emissions."

Fossil Fuels (n.)

Coal, oil, and natural gas, which release pollutants when burned.

Example: "Burning fossil fuels contributes to both smog and climate change."

Industrial Pollution (n.)

Waste gases and chemicals released by factories and manufacturing plants.

Example: "Industrial pollution is a major factor in urban haze."

Deforestation (n.)

Cutting down trees reduces air purification, worsening pollution.

Example: "Deforestation in the Amazon affects global air quality."

Health and Environmental Effects

Respiratory Diseases (n.)

Illnesses affecting lungs and breathing, such as asthma or bronchitis.

Example: "Long-term exposure to smog increases respiratory diseases."

Visibility (n.)

How clearly objects can be seen; haze drastically reduces it.

Example: "Visibility dropped to 500 meters due to heavy haze."

Global Warming (n.)

The rise in Earth's temperature due to greenhouse gases.

Example: "Haze contributes to global warming by trapping heat."

Acid Rain (n.)

Rain contaminated with pollutants, harming ecosystems.

Example: "Acid rain damages forests and water sources."

Protective Measures and Solutions

Face Mask (n.)

A protective covering, such as an N95 mask, filtering harmful particles.

Example: "Many commuters wear face masks during smog alerts."

Air Purifier (n.)

A device that removes pollutants from indoor air.

Example: "Schools installed air purifiers to protect students."

Renewable Energy (n.)

Clean power sources like solar or wind, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Example: "Switching to renewable energy can decrease pollution."

Carbon Footprint (n.)

The total greenhouse gases an individual or organization produces.

Example: "Reducing your carbon footprint helps fight climate change."

Government and Policy Terms

Environmental Regulations (n.)

Laws controlling pollution levels from industries and vehicles.

Example: "Stricter environmental regulations improved air quality."

Smog Alert (n.)

A public warning when pollution reaches dangerous levels.

Example: "A smog alert advised vulnerable groups to stay indoors."

Emission Standards (n.)

Legal limits on how much pollution vehicles and factories can release.

Example: "New emission standards forced carmakers to innovate."

Green Initiatives (n.)

Programs promoting sustainability, like tree planting or clean energy.

Example: "The city launched green initiatives to combat haze."

Common Phrases in Pollution Discussions

• "The air is thick with smog."
• "AQI levels are hazardous today."
• "Wear a mask to avoid inhaling PM2.5."
• "Industrial emissions must be controlled."
• "Renewable energy is the future."

Understanding these terms helps in discussing air pollution more effectively. Whether reading news reports, participating in environmental debates, or simply staying informed, this vocabulary is essential. Clean air is a shared responsibility, and awareness is the first step toward change.