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Explora: Environment
and Resource Air pollution mitigation technologies

governmental transparency, and the nation’s economic The shipping industry is another contributor to air
standing. Local issues can be addressed more effectively pollution, as oil combustion produces black smoke and
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when there is a targeted approach supported by flexible emits high concentrations of NO , CO, CO , and other
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policies. In developed nations such as the United States pollutants. In response, the global maritime and port
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(US), industrialization has contributed to deteriorating sectors are developing new technologies, such as advanced
air quality. In China, rapid technological advancement engine systems and improved fuel quality. Biofuels,
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and urbanization have driven recent initiatives to reduce derived from organic matter, offer a promising alternative
air pollution. Several studies indicate that technological to conventional fossil fuels. They can reduce overall
improvements remain the most effective approach. energy consumption and emissions. Different types of
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Additional mitigation techniques include photocatalysis, biofuels each offer specific advantages, such as enhanced
strict enforcement of environmental regulations, smart atomization and low viscosity. Moreover, various renewable
city planning, the use of alternative vehicle fuels, radical- energy resources have the potential to replace fossil fuels,
induced oxidation, renewable energy adoption, stainless whereas hybrid power systems integrating multiple
steel catalysts, green infrastructure, and energy-based renewable sources can supply electricity more efficiently
biofiltration. In particular, biofiltration, a technique and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
in which off-gases containing inorganic air toxics or
biodegradable VOCs are vented through a biologically This study aims to examine the technologies and
active medium, has proven effective in controlling air techniques currently employed for air pollution mitigation,
pollution. 4 analyzing their mechanisms, applications, and overall
effectiveness. It also seeks to identify research gaps and
As expected, coal continues to serve as a major source limitations in current air pollution control strategies,
of electricity worldwide. Improving air quality requires highlighting critical areas that require further investigation.
better emission management, which can be supported by In addition, the study assesses the effectiveness of various
technological solutions. Photocatalysis, for example, has mitigation solutions across diverse environmental and
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been demonstrated as an effective strategy for removing socioeconomic contexts to understand their adaptability
environmental contaminants from the atmosphere. In and real-world impact. Based on these findings,
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this process, powerful oxidizing and reducing agents are recommendations for future research are proposed to
photochemically generated on a catalyst’s surface, leading support the development of more effective and sustainable
to the degradation of contaminants, particularly organic air quality management strategies.
compounds. When treating air pollution in indoor or
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semi-enclosed spaces, photolysis, also known as visible 2. Methodology
light-driven photocatalysis, is recommended. However,
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nitrate compounds have been less responsive to efforts This study adopts a qualitative research approach through
aiming at lowering NO emissions, which often increase a comprehensive literature review to examine various
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during wintertime pollution episodes that cause haze. methods and technologies for mitigating air pollution.
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Weak deposition has been identified as the primary factor The methodology involves collecting, analyzing, and
contributing to this seasonal rise in nitrate. 8 synthesizing data from previously published research
articles, industrial reports, environmental assessments,
Urban design also plays a significant role in reducing and relevant case studies. Sources were selected from
air pollution, as hotspots are not always directly associated peer-reviewed journals, reports by governmental and
with high traffic density. The Google ranking-inspired non-governmental organizations, and recognized
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General Information Report approach can assist in ranking environmental databases.
cities based on their environmental conditions. In
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addition, sensor modules are valuable tools for mitigating The literature review specifically focused on identifying
air pollution. These devices continuously monitor air the types and mechanisms of air pollution control, as
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pollutants such as PM, nitrogen dioxide (NO ), SO , well as distinguishing between active and passive control
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carbon monoxide (CO), ozone, and VOCs. By providing methods and technologies. Data collection was conducted
real-time data, they facilitate early detection of hazardous through searches of electronic databases such as Google
air quality conditions. Sensor modules can be strategically Scholar, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, and other academic
installed near traffic signals or toll booths. Furthermore, repositories, using keywords including “air pollution,” “air
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plant leaves can absorb PM, thereby lowering ambient pollution control,” “environment pollution,” “CO,” “PM,”
concentrations. Improving energy efficiency in the non- “VOCs,” and “electrification.” Articles published between
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power sector can further reduce SO , NO , PM, and carbon 2000 and 2023 were prioritized to ensure relevance and
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dioxide (CO ) emissions. 12 currency of information.
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Volume 2 Issue 3 (2025) 2 doi: 10.36922/EER025210041