Outdoor activities impacted by pollution include hiking and mountaineering, water-based activities like swimming and fishing, motorized vehicle recreation, horseback riding, and team sports, among others. Pollution affects these activities mainly through air and water pollution, which can cause respiratory issues, reduce visibility, degrade environmental quality, and harm aquatic life.

Hiking and Mountaineering

Pollution contributes to terrain erosion and damage to vegetation. Air pollution can reduce visibility and exacerbate respiratory difficulties during exertion at high altitudes. Picking plants or littering can also harm the environment and lead to restricted access in some areas.

Water-based Recreational Activities

Swimming, boating, and fishing can be impacted by water pollution caused by industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage leaks. These pollutants can lead to skin infections, contaminated fish, and uninhabitable environments for aquatic life, reducing the enjoyment and safety of these activities.

Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding

Activities like off-road motorcycling and horseback riding cause soil erosion, vegetation loss, and air pollution. Motor vehicles emit pollutants that degrade air quality and damage terrain, while horses contribute to ground pressure and vegetation loss.

Outdoor Sports

Polluted air, particularly with ozone and particulate matter, can impair lung function and reduce performance in running, cycling, and team sports. Athletes inhale more pollutants during strenuous activities because they breathe more through their mouths, increasing health risks.

Urban Green Spaces and Camp Activities

Air and noise pollution in urban parks can cause respiratory issues, disrupt peaceful activities, and lower the quality of outdoor experiences. Children and teens in outdoor camps are especially vulnerable to air pollution and may need activity adjustments or relocation indoors during poor air quality.

Summary of Effects

• Respiratory difficulty and health risks due to inhaling pollutants.
• Reduced visibility affecting safety and enjoyment.
• Erosion and damage to soil and vegetation.
• Contamination of water harming aquatic life and safety.
• Reduced performance and increased exertion in sports.

These impacts often lead to measures such as limiting access, reducing group sizes, rescheduling or relocating activities, and encouraging the use of protective gear like masks.