The city of London has begun spraying a ‘dust suppressant’ that sticks pollution particulates to the street so they don’t move about in the air. The pilot program will spay two traffic-laden areas with the paint-like dust suppressant in an effort to reduce air pollution.
Sweden, Norway, Austria, Italy and Germany are among countries that have already tested the material –- a biodegradable saline solution called Calcium Magnesium Acetate -- with positive results. The dust suppressant reportedly reduces airborne particulates as much as 20 percent.
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Sticky City Streets
London Tries Dust Suppressant to Glue Down Air Pollution
Trend Themes
1. Air Pollution Control - Opportunities for developing innovative solutions to reduce air pollution, such as dust suppressants, are emerging in urban areas.
2. Sustainable Urban Maintenance - The use of biodegradable dust suppressants like Calcium Magnesium Acetate presents new possibilities for sustainable urban maintenance practices.
3. International Collaboration for Air Quality - The positive results of dust suppressant trials in multiple countries suggest the need for increased international collaboration in addressing air quality issues.
Industry Implications
1. Environmental Services - The growing need for effective air pollution control measures creates opportunities for environmental services companies to develop and offer innovative solutions.
2. Infrastructure Maintenance - Sustainable urban maintenance practices, such as the use of dust suppressants, can drive innovation and growth in the infrastructure maintenance industry.
3. Government and Policy - Collaborative efforts to address air quality issues require government involvement and the development of policies that promote the use of innovative solutions, opening avenues for policy consultation and advocacy firms.