Activities in the mining industry are attributed to 4-7% of total global greenhouse gas emissions. The industry must seriously adapt in order to reduce its carbon footprint to support global progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement.
A hand-held device that measures aerosols could help prevent spread of COVID-19
Researchers have confirmed the efficacy of a portable particle detector at calculating the concentration of aerosols in public spaces. Hand-held devices may be vital in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, given the important role that aerosols play in the transmission of the virus.
Coronavirus particles in aerosol droplets. Image Credit: peterschreiber.media/Shutterstock.com
Aerosol transmission of COVID-19
The latest research has uncovered the fundamental role that aerosols play in the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Aerosols, produced when humans respire and release water droplets into the immediate environment. These droplets can measure less than 60 μm and can be laden with the COVID-19 virus if expelled into the air by an infected person.
Chemical found in cigarettes could increase severity of COVID-19, new study finds
A new study has found that high levels of the chemical cadmium, is associated with an increased risk of death in patients with influenza or pneumonia. Scientists suggest that the chemical, found in cigarettes and contaminated vegetables, could increase the severity of other respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19. The study’s results, published this month in the journal
Environmental Health Perspectives, highlight the potential health benefits of reducing public exposure to cadmium.
Image Credit: serdjophoto / Shutterstock.com
Smokers at higher risk of COVID-19 deaths
Previous research has highlighted the detrimental impact long-term cadmium exposure has on human health, with evidence showing even at low levels it can negatively impact the lungs. Because of this, people exposed to relatively high levels of cadmium may not be able to cope with the influenza virus’s effect on the lungs.