Pea soup fog

Pea soup fog is a type of smog that is characterized by its thick, yellowish-green appearance. This phenomenon was particularly notorious in London during the 19th and early 20th centuries, where it was also known as a "London particular" or "London fog."

Causes

Pea soup fog is primarily caused by the combination of fog and air pollution. The main contributors to this type of smog were the burning of coal and other fossil fuels, which released large amounts of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter into the atmosphere. When these pollutants mixed with the natural fog, they created a dense, opaque mist that could severely reduce visibility.

Historical Context

The most infamous instance of pea soup fog occurred in December 1952, known as the Great Smog of London. This event lasted for five days and resulted in thousands of deaths due to respiratory problems and accidents caused by the poor visibility. The Great Smog of London was a turning point that led to significant changes in environmental policies, including the introduction of the Clean Air Act 1956.

Health Effects

Exposure to pea soup fog can have severe health effects, particularly on the respiratory system. The high concentration of pollutants can exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases. Long-term exposure can also lead to chronic respiratory issues and increased mortality rates.

Mitigation and Legislation

In response to the health crises caused by pea soup fog, several legislative measures were introduced to reduce air pollution. The Clean Air Act 1956 in the United Kingdom was one of the first major laws aimed at controlling air pollution. This act restricted the burning of coal in urban areas and promoted the use of cleaner fuels.

Modern Day

While pea soup fog is largely a historical phenomenon in developed countries, similar types of smog can still occur in areas with high levels of industrial pollution. Efforts to reduce air pollution through legislation, technological advancements, and public awareness continue to be crucial in preventing such environmental and health hazards.

See Also

• Smog
• Great Smog of London
• Clean Air Act 1956
• Air pollution
• Respiratory system