Understanding Air Pollution

Air pollution occurs when harmful substances (gases, particulate matter) are introduced into the Earth's atmosphere, causing harm to humans, animals, plants, and the environment.

Major Pollutants & Sources:

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM10): Fine dust, soot, smoke from burning fossil fuels (vehicles, power plants), industry, construction, wildfires.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): From vehicle exhaust, power plants, industrial combustion.
• Sulphur Dioxide (SO2): From burning fossil fuels (especially coal), industrial processes.
• Ground-Level Ozone (O3): Formed by chemical reactions between NOx and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in sunlight.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO): From incomplete combustion (vehicles, heating).

Impacts:

• Respiratory illnesses (asthma, bronchitis), cardiovascular problems, reduced visibility (smog), acid rain, damage to ecosystems.