Air pollution

Air Pollution

Air pollution is the addition of gases, chemicals, and particulate matter into the atmosphere.

Air pollution primarily comes from burning fossil fuels such as natural gas, petroleum, and coal.

Globally, an estimated 200,000 and 570,000 people die each year from air pollution.

Air Pollution

Air PollutionHumans are the main cause of air pollution. Industries, including factories and power plants, burn large quantities of fuel.

Burning coal and petroleum releases sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide into the air.

Airplanes, boats, and cars burn fuel, releasing carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

Air PollutionThe waste in landfills releases methane. Sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, and methane all have a very negative effect on air quality. These pollutants can also contribute to the greenhouse effect.

Some air pollution is not directly caused by humans: for example, animals emit carbon dioxide when they breathe, and volcanoes release sulfur oxide. However, most air pollution is linked directly or indirectly to human activity. This means that air pollution can be best controlled by modifying human activity to burn a smaller quantity of fossil fuels.

Air Pollution

Major Pollutants

1. Carbon Monoxide

2. Sulfur Dioxide

3. Nitrogen Dioxide

4. Particulate Matter

5. Ground Level Ozone

The combination of these pollutants results in…

SMOG

SmogThe term "smog" was first used in London during the early 1900's to describe the combination of smoke and fog. What we typically call "smog" today is a mixture of pollutants but it is primarily made up of ground-level ozone.

Smog is made up of a combination of air pollutants that can harm health and environment, and also damage property.

Smog is a visible example of air pollution. You can look at the horizon during the day to see how much haze there is in the air.

What can we do to reduce air pollution?

Answers vary, but may include: using less power (thus putting less demand on power plants); using cars less frequently; diminishing the amount of garbage.

Air Pollution – Images and Facts