Air Pollution 101

Air pollution is the presence in the air of substances put there by the acts of human activity in concentrations sufficient to interfere with health, comfort, safety, and the full use and enjoyment of property.

Air pollution can have negative effects on both human health and the environment. It can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death. It can also contribute to climate change, harm ecosystems, and reduce crop yields.

Common pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter, are not prominent in the general composition of the atmosphere because they are typically emitted by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and industrial processes. These pollutants are released in localized areas and can accumulate to harmful levels.

The Great London Smog of 1952 was a severe air pollution event that occurred in London, England. It was caused by a combination of cold weather, emissions from coal burning, and the lack of wind to disperse the pollutants. The smog caused thousands of deaths and led to the implementation of stricter air pollution regulations.

Ten common pollutants include carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, lead, mercury, benzene, and formaldehyde. They come from sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, power plants, and chemical solvents. These pollutants don't appear in the general composition of the atmosphere because they are typically emitted in specific locations and their concentrations are higher near their sources.