air pollution
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air pollution
The contamination of the atmosphere by harmful substances such as gases, dust, or smoke, which come from natural sources or human activities and can affect health as well as the environment.
In vielen Großstädten ist die Luftverschmutzung durch den Verkehr ein ernstes Problem.
In many large cities, air pollution from traffic is a serious problem.
The word is made up of 'die Luft' (air) and 'die Verschmutzung' (pollution). 'Verschmutzung' comes from the verb 'verschmutzen' (to pollute), which means 'schmutzig machen' (to make dirty).
Die Verschmutzung der Flüsse ist ein großes Problem.
The pollution of rivers is a major problem.
Common verbs used in connection with air pollution are 'verursachen' (to cause), 'reduzieren' (to reduce), and 'bekämpfen' (to combat). Typical adjectives are 'stark' (severe), 'hoch' (high), or 'gering' (low).
Die Regierung hat Maßnahmen zur Reduzierung der Luftverschmutzung beschlossen.
The government has decided on measures to reduce air pollution.
To indicate the cause of 'Luftverschmutzung' (air pollution), the preposition 'durch' (through/by) is almost always used.
Die Luftverschmutzung durch die Industrie hat in den letzten Jahren abgenommen.
Air pollution from industry has decreased in recent years.
emission
'Emission' and 'Luftverschmutzung' are both connected to harmful substances in the air. The difference is the perspective. 'Emission' means the discharge or release of such substances, for example by cars or factories. 'Luftverschmutzung' means the poor condition of the air that can result from this. Learners may confuse the words because emissions often cause air pollution. When talking about the source or amount of the discharge, use 'Emission'. When talking about polluted air and its effects, 'Luftverschmutzung' fits better.
Wegen der starken Luftverschmutzung bleiben viele Kinder heute drinnen.
Because of the severe air pollution, many children are staying indoors today.
Die Emission aus der Fabrik wird regelmäßig gemessen.
The emission from the factory is measured regularly.