What was the goal?
The goal of the project was to propose ways in which students could raise awareness among the state and citizens about the issue of smog. Smog has re-emerged as a significant form of air pollution due to the widespread shift toward burning wood as a heating source. Consisting of a dense cloud of suspended particles in the lower atmosphere, mainly composed of burned carbon particles and toxic sulfur dioxide, smog has been linked by epidemiological studies in the USA and EU to serious short-term and long-term health effects, particularly increased respiratory and cardiovascular disease and mortality.
How did the project proceed?
The project was carried out through bibliographic research. The team investigated the causes and health impacts of smog, explored possible measures that could be taken to address the phenomenon, and identified specific ways in which students could actively contribute to raising public and governmental awareness.
What were the results?
The project confirmed that smog is a form of atmospheric pollution primarily caused by the burning of solid fuels. It identified several possible measures to address the problem, including penalties for illegal logging, banning the burning of synthetic wood, providing financial incentives for alternative heating sources, organizing informational campaigns and conferences, and arranging visits to universities. The project also proposed concrete channels through which students can contribute to raising awareness: participating in the Youth Parliament, taking on the role of student diplomats, organizing conferences, and engaging in Green Chemistry initiatives such as greening schools, annual three-day Green Chemistry seminars, and weekly blog posts. The project concluded that by gaining knowledge about smog, students will have the tools to inform and sensitize their fellow citizens using means that appeal to all ages, will recognize that they have a voice through educational programs and institutions to advocate for change through state mechanisms, and will be able to demand the living conditions they deserve while improving their environment and quality of life. Green Chemistry was highlighted as the optimal means of raising awareness among both citizens and the state, especially when combined with technology such as weekly blog posts in online newspapers and social media.