Air Pollution is a pervasive issue that poses significant risks to both human health and the environment. To address this problem, environmental scientists and organisations have identified six common air pollutants, known as criteria pollutants, that have profound impacts on air quality. These pollutants, recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other regulatory bodies, serve as crucial indicators of air pollution levels and provide a basis for setting air quality standards.
Understanding these six common air pollutants and their sources is essential for developing effective strategies to mitigate their adverse effects and promote cleaner, healthier air for all. By targeting these pollutants, we can make substantial progress in safeguarding our respiratory health, reducing environmental damage, and creating a more sustainable future.
Air Pollutants that cause Air Pollution
- Particulate Matter (PM):- Particulate matter refers to tiny particles suspended in the air. These particles are either solid or liquid and come in a variety of sizes. PM10 is defined as particles 10 micrometres or less, and PM2.5 is defined as particles 2.5 micrometres or less. Sources of particulate matter include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, construction activities, and natural sources such as dust and wildfires and they cause air pollution.
- Ground-Level Ozone (O3):-When NOx and VOCs come into contact with sunlight, they create ground-level ozone. It is a major component of smog and has detrimental effects on respiratory health. Ozone is primarily produced by vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and the interaction of sunlight with pollutants.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It is primarily emitted by vehicles and industrial processes. High levels of carbon monoxide can be harmful, particularly in enclosed spaces.
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Sulfur dioxide is a gas produced by the burning of fossil fuels that contain sulphur, such as coal and oil. It is one of the main causes of acid rain and causes breathing difficulties. Industrial processes and power plants are significant sources of sulfur dioxide emissions.
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Nitrogen dioxide is a reddish-brown gas formed during the combustion of fossil fuels. It contributes to the formation of smog and can have adverse effects on respiratory health. Sources of nitrogen dioxide include vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes.
- Lead (Pb): While lead emissions have significantly decreased in recent decades due to regulations, it is still a concern in certain areas. Lead is a toxic metal that can affect multiple organ systems in the body. Historically, leaded gasoline and industrial processes were the main sources of lead emissions. Today, lead exposure mainly occurs through lead-based paint in older homes and certain industrial activities.
Also Read more about Volatile organic compounds: https://buzzenviro.com/what-are-volatile-organic-compounds/
Conclusion
These six Air pollutants are regulated by national and international air quality standards to protect human health and the environment. Efforts to reduce emissions and control these pollutants have been implemented globally to improve air quality.
