Environmental factors & longevity: How air, light and noise affect our ageing

Did you know that more than 50% of the population in Baden-Württemberg feel annoyed by noise? This figure impressively illustrates how strongly environmental factors can influence health and life expectancy. Whether it’s poor air quality, inadequate lighting or persistent noise, environmental factors have a profound impact on our well-being and longevity.

There is growing evidence that environmental factors influence ageing. From air quality to noise pollution, these influences can either benefit or significantly impair our health. For example, research shows that 25-30% of 20-year-olds suffer from hearing loss due to overexposure to noise, which can result in long-term health problems.

The impact on health and life expectancy is becoming an increasingly important topic. How clean the air is, what light surrounds us and how much noise we are exposed to every day play a decisive role in our efforts to live a long, healthy life.

Key findings

• More than 50% of the population in Baden-Württemberg feel annoyed by noise.
• 25-30% of 20-year-olds suffer from hearing loss due to excessive noise.
• The quality of the air we breathe has a direct influence on our life expectancy.
• Natural light can improve well-being and sleep quality.
• Long-term exposure to noise can affect both physical and mental health.

The role of air quality in our health and longevity

Air quality has a decisive influence on our health and longevity. Air pollution can lead to serious health problems, which in turn can reduce our life expectancy. Research shows that around 400,000 premature deaths in the EU each year are caused by air pollution. The external health costs are estimated at several hundred billion euros per year. These alarming figures highlight the need to improve air quality in order to increase the life expectancy of the population and minimize health risks.

Influence of air pollution on ageing

Air pollution has a direct impact on the ageing process. Long-term exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ground-level ozone (O3) can increase the risk of heart disease, strokes and respiratory diseases. In 2014, particulate matter caused around 400,000 premature deaths in the EU alone, while nitrogen dioxide and ozone caused a further 88,600 premature deaths. These pollutants not only accelerate the ageing process, but also contribute to a higher burden of disease.

How clean air can increase life expectancy

Clean air, on the other hand, can significantly improve life expectancy. In regions with low levels of air pollution, people are less likely to suffer from heart disease and strokes and have a higher quality of life. The reduction of PM2.5 emissions by 26% since 2000 and of NOX emissions by 56% shows that continuous efforts to improve air quality can have positive effects on life expectancy. The EU is also aiming to reduce premature deaths due to particulate matter and ozone by 52% by 2030 compared to 2005, which is a significant step towards a longer and healthier life.

Improving air quality is not only the responsibility of governments, but also of each individual. Through sustainable living habits and environmental awareness, we can all contribute to cleaner air and a longer life expectancy.

The importance of natural light for a longer life

Natural light plays a crucial role in our well-being and health. It directly influences our body’s biological rhythm and hormone production. Daylight ensures a better mood, higher energy levels and improved concentration.

How daylight affects our health

In summer in particular, up to 100,000 lux can affect our bodies, while in winter or when the sky is overcast, the amount of light drops to around 3,500 lux. Studies show that pupils solve tasks faster and make fewer mistakes in optimally lit rooms. Daylight also improves the quality of sleep and shortens the time it takes to fall asleep.

The direct influence of daylight on hormone control, particularly on the sleep hormone melatonin, is well documented. Sufficient exposure to daylight leads to higher levels of vitality and can reduce chronic fatigue. Intense light also has positive effects on the cardiovascular system, including the regulation of cortisol levels, heart rate and blood pressure.

Artificial lighting and its effects

The role of artificial lighting in our everyday lives should not be underestimated. Incorrectly planned lighting conditions can disrupt biological rhythms and lead to health problems. Modern smart lighting technology in office buildings automatically adjusts the light to the needs of users to support the day-night rhythm.

In German care homes, 75 percent of residents have Alzheimer’s disease and more than half of these patients suffer from night-time confusion. Research shows that bright lighting during the day can reduce these conditions. It has also been shown that pupils in schools with biologically optimized lighting have better concentration skills and a lower error rate.

Although many people today spend 92% of their lives indoors, poorly planned artificial lighting can have a negative impact on the body’s internal clock. Therefore, it is important that both natural light and artificial lighting are carefully considered and optimized to support health and well-being.

How noise affects our health and life expectancy

The negative health effects of noise pollution are far-reaching and well documented. In a survey conducted by the Federal Environment Agency in 2020, 76% of respondents stated that they felt disturbed by road traffic in their living environment. In addition, 57% reported being disturbed by noise from neighbors. This noise pollution affects everyday life and can have a significant impact on health.

Long-term effects of noise pollution

Long-term exposure to noise can have serious health consequences. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least one million healthy years of life are lost every year in western Europe due to traffic noise. The health risks include ischemic heart disease, sleep disorders, tinnitus, cognitive impairment in children, hearing damage, prenatal impairment and miscarriages. The European Environment Agency (EEA) also points to premature mortality as a result of cardiovascular diseases caused by prolonged exposure to noise.

Industrial noise pollution is also a major problem, especially in urban areas. 16 million Germans are exposed to high levels of noise pollution from traffic and industrial noise, and the trend is rising. The WHO and EEA recommend noise protection measures from a threshold value of 55 decibels, while the current threshold value in Germany is 70 decibels. It is therefore crucial to take noise protection seriously, as a link between road noise and the risk of heart disease has already been established at 40 decibels.

Strategies to protect against noise

Effective noise protection strategies are necessary to minimize the health effects of noise pollution. These measures include the use of soundproof windows, the planting of hedges or trees as natural noise barriers and the erection of noise barriers along busy roads. In addition, cities and municipalities should work to reduce traffic noise through traffic calming measures. The use of quieter vehicles and careful urban planning can also make a significant contribution to reducing noise and thus increase the life expectancy of citizens.

Environmental factors that influence ageing

Environmental factors play a crucial role in the ageing process. An analysis based on data from almost 500,000 people in the UK Biobank has shown that environmental factors explain 17 percent of the variability in the risk of death, while genetic predisposition accounts for only 2 percent. Above all, smoking, socio-economic status, physical activity and living conditions have a significant influence on ageing and lifespan.

Factors such as food intake and nutrition are particularly important. For example, it has been shown that fruit flies treated with rapamycin exhibit a significant increase in their life expectancy. Similarly, old fish that received the intestinal bacteria from young fish showed a life extension of up to 40 percent. Food restriction can lead to a healthier and often longer life in several animal species, as Fontana et al. reported in 2010.

In addition, certain amino acids have been shown to have positive health benefits, including in humans. Juricic et al. 2020 and Fontana et al. 2016 show that a reduced intake of certain amino acids has long-term health benefits.

The important role of environmental factors in healthy ageing is also underlined by the fact that smoking is associated with 21 different diseases, while socio-economic factors such as household income and employment status are associated with 19 diseases. Physical activity, in turn, has an association with 17 diseases. All of these factors significantly influence mortality and biological ageing.

Interactions between genetics and environmental factors

The complex relationship between genetics and environmental factors plays a crucial role in adaptation to environmental conditions and gene expression. Germany is undergoing a demographic transition in which lifespan is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Studies show that the genetic influence on lifespan is smaller than previously assumed, while environmental factors play a more significant role.

Genetics and its role in adaptation to environmental conditions

Genetics not only determine our physical characteristics, but also how well we can adapt to different environmental conditions. Analysis of the UK Biobank, which includes data from around 500,000 individuals, has shown that polymorphisms in the FOXO3 gene are associated with longevity in several studies. These polymorphisms improve gene expression and thus contribute to adaptation to environmental conditions. Genetic studies such as the 26 Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS) have identified 55 independent gene loci that are significantly associated with lifespan.

Epigenetics: connection between environment and gene expression

Epigenetics describes the mechanisms by which environmental factors can influence gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic clocks, which are based on DNA methylation patterns, provide insights into biological age and longevity. The first epigenetic clock, developed by Steve Horvath, included 353 CpG sites to determine biological age. PhenoAge and GrimAge are second generation epigenetic clocks and use 513 and 1030 CpG sites, respectively, to predict life expectancy. These clocks show how closely environmental factors are linked to gene expression and how they can influence adaptation to environmental conditions.

DNA damage, especially chronic DNA double-strand breaks, leads to accelerated ageing and a loss of epigenetic precision. This not only affects biological ageing, but also the ability to adapt to environmental changes. The complex interplay between genetics and the environment is therefore a key to improving our health and longevity.

Optimum indoor climate: temperature, humidity and health benefits

An optimal indoor climate is crucial for well-being and health. Both room temperature and humidity play a central role in this. These factors not only influence physical well-being, but also performance and quality of life.

How room temperature and humidity affect well-being

The ideal room temperature varies depending on the type of room. For living areas, the optimum values are between 20 and 24°C, while 16 to 20°C is preferred in bedrooms. Kitchens should have a temperature of 18 to 22°C and bathrooms between 20 and 24°C.

The relative humidity in living rooms should ideally be between 40% and 60%. In kitchens and bathrooms, a slightly higher value of 50 to 60% is recommended. Excessive humidity above 60% can lead to mold growth and health problems, while low humidity can contribute to dry skin and respiratory illnesses.

Tips for creating an optimal indoor climate

• Ventilate four to six times a day for a short time and open each window for five minutes. This ensures an energy-saving and hygienic minimum air exchange.
• Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to keep the humidity in the optimum range.
• Install decentralized ventilation systems that are easy to operate and equipped with replaceable filters. These are particularly effective in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Use room air sensors to monitor humidity and CO2 levels and adjust the ventilation system accordingly.
• Plant indoor plants. Ten or so plants can significantly improve the indoor climate by filtering pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.
• Use heat exchangers in ventilation systems to reduce heating costs and ensure a comfortable indoor climate.

By paying attention to these aspects, the indoor climate can be significantly improved, resulting in more vitality, a strong immune system and less need for medication.

Living environment: How plants help to promote health

Integrating plants into the home environment can provide significant benefits for plant health. In urban areas where access to a natural environment is limited, indoor plants offer a welcome opportunity to improve air quality by purifying the air. These plants promote not only physical but also psychological well-being by creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere.

Scientific studies have shown that plants can help to improve indoor air quality. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which purifies the air we breathe indoors. This is particularly important in densely populated urban environments where air pollution can be higher. In addition, certain plants, such as the bow hemp (Sansevieria trifasciata) and the ivy (Epipremnum aureum), contribute to the removal of pollutants in the air.

Another significant benefit of plants in the living environment is their positive effect on mental health. The presence of plants and caring for them not only promotes physical activity, but also a sense of connection with nature. A natural environment in your own home can reduce stress and improve your ability to concentrate.

The German Social Code also offers various financial support options for measures to improve the living environment, including the use of plants to purify the air. For example, people in need of care with a recognized care level can apply for a grant of up to 4,000 euros for such measures. This could include the installation of plant walls or the integration of special plant systems that help to improve air quality. If several beneficiaries live together, the grant can be up to 16,000 euros.

Incorporating plants into the living environment is therefore not just an aesthetic choice, but a proactive measure to improve plant health and overall quality of life. In view of demographic change and urbanization, the importance of urban greenery and the use of plants indoors for a natural environment and air purification will continue to increase.

Industrial and industrial noise pollution: challenges and solutions

Industrial noise poses a significant challenge to public health. Noise pollution from industrial sources can have a variety of health consequences, ranging from sleep disorders to chronic illnesses. Noise protection measures are therefore essential to improve quality of life and ensure health protection.

Effects of industrial noise on health

Industrial noise is a pervasive problem, especially in densely populated areas. Studies show that around 12 million EU residents are affected by railroad noise during the day, with noise levels above 55 dB(A). At night, 9 million EU residents suffer from noise pollution above 50 dB(A). Such high noise levels can cause various health problems, especially at levels above 70 dB(A).

There are many sources of noise in the industrial sector: engine noise, rolling noise and aerodynamic noise contribute significantly to noise pollution. Rolling noise from freight trains and older wagons in particular is a major cause of high noise levels. This problem is particularly pronounced in Central Europe, especially in Germany, Italy and Switzerland.

Procedures for reducing industrial noise

In order to effectively reduce noise pollution, both passive and active noise protection measures are required. Common passive measures such as noise barriers provide effective local protection. However, such walls are often not sufficient to protect the entire affected area.

Active measures such as replacing cast-iron brake blocks with composite brake blocks could make a significant contribution to noise reduction. This measure could affect around 370,000 old freight wagons and significantly reduce rolling noise.

Another important noise protection measure is the regular maintenance of vehicles and tracks. This can eliminate unnecessary sources of noise, such as structurally radiated noise from viaducts or squealing on curves. The Technical Standard for Interoperability (TSI Noise) also requires that vehicles introduced since 2000 must reduce noise emissions by around 10 dB(A) compared to older models.

In summary, it can be said that a combination of various noise protection measures and continuous maintenance is essential to reduce noise pollution and ensure the health protection of the population.

The importance of environmental protection measures for public health

Environmental protection measures play a crucial role in public health. Environmental protection initiatives aim to improve air quality, reduce water pollution and implement other health-promoting measures that improve the quality of life in the long term.

How environmental protection initiatives promote health

The implementation of environmental protection initiatives has direct and immediate benefits for the health of the population. For example, improved air quality standards can help to reduce the number of premature deaths caused by air pollution. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), seven million premature deaths worldwide are caused by air pollution every year. In Germany, an estimated 63,100 people died prematurely in 2018 due to particulate matter pollution.

Other health-promoting measures include the reduction of particulate matter pollution and the implementation of heat action plans. In summer 2022, an estimated 4,500 people in Germany died from the effects of heat. However, these figures could be significantly reduced by setting up heat action plans.

Long-term benefits of environmental protection

The long-term benefits of environmental protection are immense. A third of Germans believe that environmental pollution and pollutants have a strong or very strong impact on their own health. In addition, more than 75 percent of respondents fear that environmental pollution will affect the health of future generations.

• In 2020, the European Environment Agency (EEA) estimated that 28,900 attributable deaths in Germany were due to exposure to particulate matter.
• 60 percent of respondents felt affected by noise from neighbors, which is also addressed by environmental protection initiatives.
• In Europe, around 15% of deaths are attributable to environmental risk factors.

Ultimately, environmental protection measures not only ensure a better quality of life, but also the sustainable development of society. Through targeted environmental protection initiatives and health-promoting measures, we can create a healthier and safer future.

Light pollution and its effects on sleep and ageing

Light pollution affects the lives of over 80% of people worldwide. Cities shine up to 4,000 times brighter than natural night light, contributing significantly to chronic light exposure that can affect our quality of sleep and the ageing process. An increase in light pollution of more than 2% per year worldwide highlights the urgency of taking action against this problem.

Definition and causes of light pollution

Light pollution is the excessive, misdirected or disturbing artificial lighting that disrupts the natural day-night rhythm. This is mainly caused by indoor and outdoor lighting, which accounts for around 7% of electricity consumption in Germany. In some federal states, it gets between 3% and 6% brighter every year, which further increases light pollution. LED streetlights with a higher color temperature also contribute to this phenomenon, although they save around 10% energy compared to warm white LEDs.

Sleep disorders and their link to light pollution

Studies show that light pollution can significantly impair sleep quality. In areas with increased outdoor light pollution at night, sleep and wake-up times are delayed and sleep duration is shortened. Referring to a study in the specialist journal “Sleep”, increased outdoor lighting at night impairs human sleep and daytime function. Sleep disorders caused by chronic light exposure can accelerate the ageing process in the long term. In addition, older adults are particularly susceptible to falls and injuries due to insufficient natural lighting, which further negatively affects their sleep quality and health.

Environmental factors and mental health: an underestimated connection

Mental health, an often underestimated aspect, is significantly influenced by various environmental factors. Stressors such as air pollution, noise and light pollution have been proven to have a negative impact on mental well-being. Studies show that around 33% of adults in Germany complain of sleep problems, which not only reduce their quality of life but can also increase psychological stress such as depression and anxiety.

A representative study, which surveyed 2,515 people, documented that people with sleep problems experience significantly more mental and physical stress. This mental stress combined with physical complaints such as heart and chest pain, stomach upsets and breathing difficulties are strongly associated with reduced sleep quality. Women, older people and people on low incomes are particularly affected.

The connection between diet and mental health is also interesting. According to an Australian study of 3,000 young people, teenagers who frequently consumed fast food and sweets were more likely to suffer from depression. In contrast, young people who preferred fresh produce were less likely to suffer from depression. In addition, probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus have been shown to have a positive effect on the brain and stress management in both mice and potentially in humans.

These findings underline the importance of comprehensive health prevention that takes into account not only physical but also mental health. Strategies to reduce environmental stressors are essential to promote mental health and improve overall well-being. Policy makers and health authorities should work closely together to develop and implement measures that improve environmental conditions and thus sustainably support the mental well-being of the population.