How fresh is the air we breathe?
From plastic particles to illicit drugs, you might be surprised by what you are actually breathing.
Air pollution is the number one environmental threat to human health worldwide. But here in New Zealand, it is often overlooked, thanks to our reputation as a clean, green paradise. Unfortunately, by certain metrics, some areas in New Zealand actually have worse air quality than comparable locations overseas.
This talk will examine the wildly complex nature of the earth’s atmosphere, focusing on the chemical composition of the air we breathe. It will dig into real life measurements of air quality in the Auckland area and explain how it impacts human health and well-being. Lesser-known chemical constituents will also be discussed, showing how humans have constant impact on the changing world around them.
Despite a feeling of impending doom, it’s not all bad. There are steps we as a society can take to provide a cleaner, healthier life for all New Zealanders.
Bio
Dr Joel Rindelaub is an analytical chemist who specialises in air quality and environmental research. He is a passionate science communicator, appearing regularly on media airwaves, YouTube channels, and in local news outlets, authoring pieces in Stuff, Newsroom, and The Spinoff.
8:00pm @Shadows Bar, 8 Alfred Street, Auckland Central, AKL 1010
Also speaking at this location at 6:30pm is Joya Kemper.
