A Screeching Halt and its Environmental Consequences
Dhanista Annem
Oct 6, 20232 min read
By: Neil Tawney
With the adoption of commercial cars around the world, the environmental consequences have gained worldwide attention. While climate change activism has worked towards lowering the consequences of exhaust emissions, an often overlooked issue remains in the shadows: brake dust pollution. While the electric car market captures an increasing share of the automotive industry claiming they are environmentally friendly, urban areas across the globe grapple with the environmental impact of brake dust.
Many car manufacturers are being praised for adding an electric car within their inventory, however none can truly claim that their cars are zero emission. In fact, all vehicles, regardless of their propulsion system, produce brake dust while braking. When a vehicle's brakes are applied, hydraulic systems force brake pads against brake discs, creating friction to slow down or stop the vehicle. Meanwhile, this friction generates tiny particles, referred to as brake dust, as a result of the gradual wear and tear on the brake pads.
The particles created, typically in a fine powder form, are released into the surrounding environment. In open air spaces, brake dust pollution might seem inconsequential. However, in densely populated urban areas it accumulates and poses environmental and health risks.
Brake dust matter pollution accounts for roughly 20%, whereas exhaust emissions account for 7%. This statistic addresses the importance of implementing solutions to brake dust as a critical environmental concern, especially in urban settings where the large majority of the global population resides.
Brake pads are made of a variety of materials such as copper and iron. When brakes are applied, these particles become airborne. When inhaled, brake dust can lead to a range of health issues. Studies have linked prolonged exposure to brake dust to respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, these particles can eventually settle on roads and be swept into bodies of water further contributing to environmental harm.
Efforts to mitigate brake dust pollution have gained attention in recent years with researchers and engineers exploring innovative brake pad materials and designs that generate fewer particles during braking.
Technological advancements, public awareness campaigns, and policy changes must be implemented in order to further drive change. Urban planners and policymakers must consider brake dust pollution as a significant factor in air quality and overall environmental health. Moreover, when purchasing a car you can play a role by choosing vehicles equipped with low-dust brake systems and practicing eco-friendly driving habits that reduce the wear and tear on brake pads.
In conclusion, while electric vehicles represent a step forward in reducing carbon emissions, the issue of brake dust pollution still affects urban environments. Recognizing the impact of brake dust and implementing measures to reduce its environmental and health consequences is a critical step toward achieving a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
References:
Smith, A., & Ross, A. (2018). Brake Dust Exposure: An Overlooked Health Hazard From Road Traffic. Environment International, 113, 266-274.
Comentarios