GLOBAL AIR POLLUTION AND ITS IMPACTS ON HUMAN LIFE

Student of English philology faculty of Uzbekistan State World Language University 

E-mail: gafforovaxadicha5@gmail.com 

Annotation

One of the most pressing issues worldwide is severe air pollution. This article discusses the significant changes occurring in the global climate and examines how such environmental problems negatively affect human life. Furthermore, several factors contributing to the intensification of air pollution are analyzed, and potential solutions to mitigate its adverse effects are proposed.

Keywords:

Pollution, transportation, cosmic dust, Tashkent

Introduction:

The term atmosphere is derived from Greek, where atm means “vapor” and sphaira means “envelope.” The atmosphere is the Earth’s primary protective layer, shielding humanity from harmful cosmic particles and radiation. Without this protective layer, the Earth would be irreversibly damaged. Consequently, air pollution, as one of the most critical global issues, demands collective attention and action.

Air pollution is among the most urgent problems worldwide, and it arises from multiple sources. First, there is the increasing dependence on personal transportation. For instance, in most developed countries, virtually every household owns at least one personal vehicle. As of October 2025, the world population exceeded 8.2 billion, currently standing at approximately 8,218,034,614. Nearly half of this population relies on automobiles, contributing significantly to atmospheric contamination.

The heavy traffic congestion commonly observed in urban areas exacerbates this issue, as idling engines emit harmful gases that deteriorate air quality. 

Second, the expansion of industrial activities, particularly the establishment of factories and plants, contributes substantially to air pollution. Industries employ various materials that, when processed through melting, refining, or hardening, release hazardous gases into the atmosphere. For example, emissions from large industrial complexes such as the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine (OKMK) release sulfur dioxide(SO₂)and other heavy metals, seriously impairing local air quality. 

Another critical factor in air pollution is human negligence. Despite the global significance of this ecological issue, the proliferation of factories, excessive use of vehicles, and improper waste management persist largely due to public indifference. Many individuals perceive environmental preservation as unrelated to their personal actions, often thinking, “What difference can one person make?” Such indifference accelerates environmental degradation. Even simple acts, like discarding plastic bottles or papers on the street, contribute to pollution, as these materials take years to decompose. Similarly, routine vehicle inspections to reduce emissions are frequently neglected. It is essential to recognize that small, conscientious actions—reducing waste, planting trees, and maintaining cleanliness—can collectively generate substantial positive impacts. 

Proposed Solutions: 

Several strategies can mitigate the problem of air pollution. Firstly, promoting the rational use of transportation is crucial. Excessive reliance on personal vehicles emits harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and methane, reducing the oxygen content in the air and posing health risks. Encouraging public transportation, including buses, subways, and trams, along with the expansion of cycling lanes and pedestrian pathways, can significantly reduce vehicular emissions. Additionally, the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles offers a practical solution to lower atmospheric contamination.

Secondly, enforcing strict environmental regulations in industrial sectors is vital. While industrial growth is critical for economic development, emissions from factories severely harm the environment. Implementing advanced filtration systems, purification devices, and waste reduction technologies in factories can prevent the rapid dispersion of harmful substances. Moreover, industries can utilize renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or bioenergy, to minimize their environmental footprint. Companies should also actively participate in ecological initiatives, including afforestation and the creation of greenspaces, to compensate for environmental damage. 

Thirdly, raising public environmental awareness is essential. People often consider environmental protection the sole responsibility of governments or ecological organizations, overlooking their personal duty to safeguard nature. Therefore, integrating environmental education into school and university curricula, promoting conservation through media and social networks, and organizing community activities such as tree planting and waste segregation can foster ecological responsibility. Trees, as natural “living filters,”absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality while providing aesthetic and psychological benefits. Establishing urban green spaces, parks, and recreational areas further enhances air circulation and environmental well-being. Encouraging each individual to plant at least one tree per year can create a sustainable ecological foundation for future generations. 

Conclusion: 

Air pollution is not merely an ecological concern; it is closely linked to human health, societal well-being, and the fate of future generations. Polluted air compromises the quality of oxygen we breathe, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory infections, allergies, and other health problems. Scientific evidence indicates that the primary cause of global air pollution is human activity, exacerbated by ecological indifference.

Therefore, every individual’s participation is crucial in improving air quality. Society must collectively promote responsible transportation habits, enforce strict industrial environmental standards, and cultivate environmental awareness through education and community engagement. Simple measures—such as tree planting, maintaining cleanliness, and segregating waste—can yield significant results. 

Nature is not a temporary dwelling; it is our only home, the foundation of our existence and life. We derive air, water, food, and peace from it. Hence, protecting, preserving, and respecting nature is our duty. By treating the environment with care today, we ensure that it will continue to sustain and bless us in the future. Conversely, neglect and indifference threaten not only our lives but also the well-being of future generations.

G’afforova Hadichaxon was born on November 1, 2007, in Beshariq district, Fergana region. She is currently a first-year student at the Uzbekistan State University of World Languages.

Clean

Am I still clean?

I take dust 

off of my hair,

pluck the hair from my limbs,

wash the limbs

under ice cold water to tighten my pores-

Am I 

messy?

I am tuned to my 

alarm clock in the morning,

drawn to the smell of 

glass cleaner I cleared my mirror with-

Am I not 

pristine?

I scrub my face

the moment I wake,

throw my dirty shirts across the room,

empty the coffee stains off of

every white mug I own-

Am I too 

addicted?

I assure myself

that I am spotless

and bright

when in reality

I own bags under my eyes

and hanging from my hands,

Rocks on my back

and splinters in my shoes-

Am I not immaculate enough 

for your praise?

I wonder 

as I wake and sleep in drowning circles-

why are my bones not

polished enough inside-

You won’t have to see them,

but you want them to be

visible under my skin-

Why

Why am I blemished 

and bruised-

Am I still acceptable 

for your love?

Love

I do not look for you

in the noise of hearts,

nor in seasons crowded with promises.

I love you

as a passerby loves

his only window,

as the earth loves

an honest step.

If you come,

the world becomes less lonely,

and if you leave,

you teach me

that love

is salvation.

Sleepiness 

Light cascades like a shower over the body of dawn.

Yet I am still, deep in sleep, 

Something tightens inside my chest,
my breath pauses—
as if I am slipping
into an even deeper sleep.

In the depth of sleep,
the morning air outside spreads its tenderness.
Behind closed doors,
like a child, I swim through dreams.

How far have I traveled,
how much time have I crossed?
There is no measure for it.
Never did I imagine
sleep could have such scales.

Sleep is dear to me.
Like a shade of peace,
something smiles within.
With a cheerful heart,
I play in the field
all afternoon long.

Before I even notice,
the games have stopped.

Night falls,
darkness thickens.

Crossing the dark,
when did dawn arrive again?
How many birds sing in the morning air,
how much light falls softly—
there is no keeping count.

Inside this closed room,
only the hours of sleep remain.
Morning air walks a long road outside,
while I, within sleep,
cross over to that distant land of Kusumpur.

Before dreams fully break,
the body grows strangely heavy.
Someone once said,
Waking early fills the heart with freshness,
sets life in motion.

So I only wonder—
are we all,
in some way,
such lovers of sleep?

Md. Mahbubul Alam is from Bangladesh. His writer name is Mahbub John in Bangladesh. He is a Senior Teacher (English) of Harimohan Government High School, Chapainawabganj, Bangladesh. Chapainawabganj is a district town of Bangladesh. He is an MA in English Literature from Rajshahi College under National University. He has published three books of poems in Bangla. He writes mainly poems but other branches of literature such as prose, article, essay etc. also have been published in national and local newspapers, magazines, little magazines. He has achieved three times the Best Teacher Certificate and Crest in National Education Week in the District Wise Competition in Chapainawabganj District. He has gained many literary awards from home and abroad. His English writings have been published in Synchronized Chaos for seven years.

Once when he was in grade ten in 1990, his Bangla letter was selected as the best one from Deutsche Welle, Germany Radio that broadcast Bangla news for the Banglalee people. And he was given 50 Dutch Mark as his award. They would ask letters from the listeners to the news in Bangla and select one letter for the best one in every month.     

From 17 to 30 September, in 2018 he received a higher training in teaching English language in Kasetsart University of Thailand for secondary level students through a government order from education ministry. 

On 06 November 2015 he achieved Amjad Ali Mondal Medal for his contribution in education field by a development organization in the conference and felicitation function for the honorable personalities at Rajshahi College Auditorium. 

On 30 December 2017 from West Bengal in India he was declared a ‘Literary Charioteer’ in Bangobandhu Literary and World Bango Conference and they awarded him with a Gold Medal in their International Literary Conference and Prize Giving Ceremony.

In 2018, he achieved Prodipto Lirerary Award in Prodipto Literary Conference at Kesorhat, Rajshahi for poems in Bangla literature. He received honorary crest from the administration of Chapainawabganj District Literary Conference and Cultural Function in 2021 and 2022 consecutively. 

His poems have been published in many international online magazines such as Juntos Por las L Raven Cage Zine, and Area Felix.  His poems have been translated and published in Argentine and Serbian, and he participated in many international online cultural meetings. 

BOOBYTRAPS AND THE GLASS CEILING: THE COSMIC DETERMINANTS

The Boobytraps

The world is marked by injustice, as a result of which there is moral confusion in human ranks. Peace is missing from the society as well as the mind of man. The world has become a battle ground and if we see it at war, the simple reason is: it has no faith in justice. It is an unjust world in which the principles of the commonwealth are violated. The suffering scattered here and there is the result of this injustice. There is something in the atmosphere which encloses us which does not like injustice. And, all those who play foul, are brought to justice, in this very world. Those who are smart enough to use their wits, hoodwink worldly judges for some time. Finally nemesis overtakes all the evil doers and justice reigns over this world.

The world has been conceived in a state of balance. By night, the gods match the balance sheet of good and evil, crime and punishment, and the cosmos goes to sleep, only when gods are assured that the right has been administered. It is another thing what we see in this world is a different spectacle. We see that good has been hijacked and the evil enjoy the best amenities. People who indulge in corruption have high time. How come, the nemesis strikes them by night?

If human wits could understand this divine operation, gods will be turned out of heaven. Cosmic forces make sure those who play foul with the system of nature are made to suffer. They are all victims of divine justice. What crimes they have committed? Only gods know, or if you can look into their hearts, at least their conscience knows where they have erred.

The Glass Ceiling

This concept of divine intervention can be extended further to include individual achievements. Sky is not the limit. There is a glass ceiling beyond which no man can perform. While I am trying to philosophize on a para-mystical subject, some questions are doing ramp walk before me: Whatever a man has done, does he do it by himself? Or were there any forces, visible or invisible, which acted upon his choices and made him act in certain ways? Could he have performed better if he was left to himself and granted greater freedom? What propelled him, and what stopped him? What was the final settlement between the forces of action, inaction and reaction? Who fixes man’s limits? What stops a man from realising his dreams?

Whatever we achieve is the result of an honourable settlement with time. The past is frozen and shows our limits. The present and future are in a constant dialogue with time for a permanent settlement. We invest time, we invest money, we invest resources. What we get is decided by the balancing out operations of our destiny.

Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, with an opus of 180 plus books, is Laureate of the Seneca, Charter of Morava, Franz Kafka and Maxim Gorky awards.  His name adorns the Poets’ Rock in Serbia. Anand is a towering literary figure whose work embodies a rare fusion of creativity, intellect, and moral vision. He is not only lone of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian poetry, but a global voice, challenging readers to confront the complexities of existence while offering hope through art and ethics.   

Annotation: This article provides a literary and philosophical analysis of “Jimjitlik” (Silence), a work by one of the prominent representatives of Uzbek literature, Said Ahmad. The study reveals how the author portrays the contrast between external silence and inner rebellion, the contradictions within the human psyche, and the issues of injustice and indifference in society. Through the characters of Tolibjon and Mirvali, the writer artistically interprets the struggle between good and evil, awakening and heedlessness. The article explores the symbolic and spiritual essence of the concept of “silence”, arguing that a person’s habituation to silence becomes one of the main causes of social tragedies. This study aims to deepen the understanding of the social significance of Said Ahmad to highlight the educational and awakening power of literature.

Keywords: Said Ahmad, Jimjitlik ( Silence), silence and rebellion, heedlessness, justice and oppression, human psychology, society and the individual, artistic character, spiritual awakening, social responsibility.

REBELLION BEHIND SILENCE: THE TRAGEDY OF STILLNESS IN SAID AHMAD’S WORK

Introduction

  One of the most distinguished figures of Uzbek literature, Said Ahmad, portrays life’s realities, human emotions, and social transformations with remarkable depth in his works, offering consolation through words to the unspoken pain and suffering burning in people’s hearts. The author elevates everyday realities to the level of art. The work “Jimjitlik” likewise raises pressing social and spiritual issues, confronting the reader with a truth wrapped in comforting illusions, even if only for a moment.

  Where does silence exist? Is it in the mountains caressed by clouds, in the steppes filled with blooming tulips, in streets resonating with children’s joyful laughter, or in hearts where childhood id buried, or perhaps in graves where hearts that once sheltered goodness now lie?

   The work depicts the inner storms hidden behind external silence, the contradictions within human psyche, indifference toward social changes, and how those in high positions, with bloodstained hands, rock the cradle of the people and hinder the awakening of a new generation. It reflects the lives of individuals struggling through the complexities of existence and their responses to social injustice.

  The characters in the work are vivid, convincing, and genuinely representative of the people. Each character is a product of their environment. The narrative begins with Tolibjon – who has suffered the merciless blows of life, whose unfortunate fate has left him disoriented, and who seeks a quiet refuge from the turbulent, noisy storms of a restless era – silently swallowing his bitter tears. His heart’s mute cry and wordless rebellion unfold within the embrace of “silence”. He wishes for the mountain children growing up in heedlessness to receive education, to advance not only through physical labor but also through intellectual development.

  “My youth lives in Tolibjon. The best part of my life remained in the chest of this young man”, he would say.

 At first glance, these words seem to touch the heart. Yet they belong to Mirvali – a man whose eyes have hardened like mountain rocks, whose conscience does not tremble at the sight of death, who has destroyed the lives of countless young women.

  Know this: when a person commits a sin, the face of the heart darkens. If one is fortunate, that darkness emerges outward so that they may quickly refrain from sin. But if one is unfortunate, the darkness remains hidden within, unnoticed even by the person themselves. As a result, they sink deeper into sin. Thus, Mirvali – transformed into a “frog prince” by the swamp of sin – soils his hands with the blood of countless innocents, driven by his eyes that can never be filled except with soil and by his fear of losing his seat of power.

Conclusion

 Such Tolibjons and Mirvalis can be found in every era and every place – only under different names and appearances. As you read the work, you fell an urge to caress the head of the orphan and to seize the banner of Truth from the hands of the righteous, raising it high. Yet this is not something achieved through empty words or mere imagination. First and foremost, one must refuse to accept silence and prove resistance through action. Knowledge is essential both to give voice to the emotions surging within the diminishing their power. A reader of this book comes to understand that the root of all ignorance lies in heedlessness and indifference

References

1. Said Ahmad. Jimjitlik – Tashkent: G’afur G’ulom Publishing House, various editions.
2. Said Ahmad. Selected Works. – Tashkent: National Encyclopedia of Uzbekistan Publishing House.
3. Qo’shjonov, M. Modern Uzbek Prose and Artistic Thought. – Tashkent.

Jumanazarova Mohlaroyim Islombek qizi was born in Uzbekistan on April 6, 2007. Currently, she is studying at Denou institute of entrepreneurship and pedagogy. She has successfully obtained a B2 level in English and holds several international certificates

The Importance of Critical Thinking in 21st-Century Education

Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna,

Student of English Filology faculty, UZSWLU.

Email: zamiramoldiyeva219@gmail.com

Abstract: In the 21st century, education has shifted from rote memorization to the development of higher-order cognitive skills. Among these, critical thinking is recognized as one of the most essential competencies for modern learners. Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information logically and independently (Facione, 2013). This article examines the role of critical thinking in contemporary education, its relationship with higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving, and digital literacy, and explores effective pedagogical strategies for fostering critical thinking. The study argues that integrating critical thinking into educational systems is crucial for academic success, professional development, and responsible citizenship in a rapidly changing world.

Keywords: critical thinking, 21st-century skills, higher-order thinking, problem-based learning, digital literacy, education.

Introduction

Modern education systems operate in a rapidly evolving environment shaped by globalization, technological advancement, and the exponential growth of information. Traditional teaching approaches that emphasize memorization are increasingly inadequate for preparing students to navigate complex academic and social challenges. As a result, critical thinking has become a central objective of educational reform worldwide (OECD, 2019).

Critical thinking is defined as purposeful, self-regulatory judgment involving interpretation, analysis, evaluation, and inference (Facione, 2013). These abilities are closely related to higher-order cognitive processes described in Bloom’s revised taxonomy, such as analyzing, evaluating, and creating (Anderson & Krathwohl, 2001). Therefore, developing critical thinking is essential for equipping students with the skills needed for lifelong learning and adaptation in the modern world.

Literature Review

Concept of Critical Thinking

Critical thinking has been extensively studied in educational research. Ennis (2011) defines critical thinking as reasonable and reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do. Similarly, Paul and Elder (2006) emphasize that critical thinking involves analyzing and evaluating one’s thinking in order to improve it. These definitions highlight that critical thinking encompasses both cognitive skills and metacognitive awareness.

Higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) serve as the foundation of critical thinking. Bloom’s revised taxonomy illustrates how learning progresses from lower-order skills, such as remembering and understanding, to higher-order skills, such as analysis and evaluation (Anderson & Krathwohl, 2001). Research shows that students who engage in higher-order thinking demonstrate deeper understanding and improved problem-solving abilities.

Role of Critical Thinking in Learning

Empirical studies indicate that critical thinking significantly contributes to academic achievement and cognitive development. Hattie (2009) found that teaching strategies promoting deep learning and critical engagement have a strong impact on student performance. Furthermore, Fisher and Scriven (1997) argue that critical thinking enhances students’ ability to interpret information, construct logical arguments, and make informed decisions.

In the digital era, critical thinking is closely connected to digital literacy. Buckingham (2007) notes that learners must critically evaluate online information, distinguish reliable sources from misinformation, and engage responsibly with digital media. Thus, critical thinking is essential not only for academic success but also for navigating the digital information landscape.

Discussion

Critical Thinking as a Core 21st-Century Skill

The rapid development of artificial intelligence, automation, and global communication networks has transformed the nature of work and learning. Employers increasingly value skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and adaptability (OECD, 2019).

Students equipped with critical thinking skills are better prepared to handle uncertainty, evaluate complex information, and develop innovative solutions.

Moreover, critical thinking is essential for global citizenship and democratic participation. It enables individuals to make informed judgments, resist misinformation, and engage constructively in social and political discourse.

Pedagogical Strategies for Developing Critical Thinking

Problem-Based Learning

Problem-based learning (PBL) encourages students to engage with real-world problems and develop solutions through inquiry and collaboration. Hmelo-Silver (2004) demonstrates that PBL enhances analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills by immersing students in authentic learning contexts.

Collaborative Learning

Collaborative learning environments promote interaction, dialogue, and shared problem-solving. Johnson and Johnson (2009) argue that cooperative learning fosters critical thinking by encouraging students to articulate ideas, evaluate alternative perspectives, and construct knowledge collectively.

Inquiry-Based Learning

Inquiry-based and inductive teaching methods stimulate higher-order thinking by encouraging students to actively construct knowledge rather than passively receive information. Prince and Felder (2006) highlight that inquiry-based approaches improve students’ conceptual understanding and critical reasoning skills.

Reflective Practice

Reflection is a key component of critical thinking. Schön (1983) suggests that reflective practice enables learners to examine their cognitive processes and improve their reasoning abilities. Tools such as journals, self-assessment tasks, and reflective discussions are effective in promoting metacognitive awareness.

Benefits of Critical Thinking

For students, critical thinking enhances academic performance, creativity, and decision-making abilities. Students who develop critical thinking skills are better equipped to evaluate information, solve complex problems, and adapt to new learning contexts.

For education systems, prioritizing critical thinking leads to deeper learning, increased student engagement, and innovation in teaching practices. Integrating critical thinking into curricula also aligns education with global standards and labor market demands.

For society, critical thinking contributes to informed citizenship, resistance to misinformation, and constructive social dialogue. It enables individuals to participate responsibly in democratic processes and contribute to social and technological progress.

Conclusion

Critical thinking is a fundamental competence for success in modern education and society. It enables learners to analyze information, solve problems, and make informed decisions in complex environments. The literature reviewed in this article demonstrates that critical thinking is closely linked to higher-order thinking skills, digital literacy, and lifelong learning.

Effective pedagogical approaches such as problem-based learning, collaborative learning, inquiry-based instruction, and reflective practice play a crucial role in developing critical thinking. Therefore, educational institutions must move beyond traditional memorization-based teaching and adopt innovative, student-centered approaches that foster critical reasoning and lifelong learning. Ultimately, cultivating critical thinking is essential for preparing students to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

References:

1.Anderson, L. W., & Krathwohl, D. R. (2001).

A taxonomy for learning, teaching, and assessing: A revision of Bloom’s taxonomy of educational objectives.

Link: https://books.google.com/books?id=jpV0AwAAQBAJ

2.Facione, P. A. (2013).

Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why It Counts.

Link (PDF): https://www.insightassessment.com/wp-content/uploads/ia/pdf/whatwhy.pdf

3.Ennis, R. H. (2011).

The nature of critical thinking.

Link: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-007-1356-5_2

4.Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2006).

The miniature guide to critical thinking.

Link: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315630524

5.Hattie, J. (2009).

Visible Learning.

Link: https://www.routledge.com/Visible-Learning-A-Synthesis-of-Over-800-Meta-Analyses-Relating-to-Achievement/Hattie/p/book/9780415476188

6.Buckingham, D. (2007).

Digital media literacies.

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17439880701343029

7.OECD (2019).

Future of Education and Skills 2030.

Link: https://www.oecd.org/education/2030-project/

8.Hmelo-Silver, C. E. (2004).

Problem-based learning.

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/B:EDPR.0000034022.16470.f3

9.Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (2009).

Cooperative learning.

Link: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-15215-001

10.Prince, M., & Felder, R. (2006).

Inductive teaching and learning methods.

Link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/j.2168-9830.2006.tb00884.x

11.Schön, D. A. (1983).

The reflective practitioner.

Link: https://www.routledge.com/The-Reflective-Practitioner-How-Professionals-Think-in-Action/Schon/p/book/9780465068784

Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna was born on May 14, 2006, in Zomin district, Jizzakh region. From 2013 to 2024, she studied at School No. 47 named after Khayrulla Akhmedov in Zomin district. During her school years, a collection of poems titled “Qaldirg‘ochlar” (Swallows) was published with the participation of amateur student writers.

She is currently a second-year student at the Uzbekistan State World Languages University, Faculty of English Philology. She is a member of the “Aurora” volleyball team and a winner of several competitions. Zamira has been an active participant in projects such as “English Quest: Freshmen Edition,” “EmpowerHer: Republican Forum of Young Women Leaders,” and “Eco Marathon.” She has also taken part in various conferences and is the author of several articles.