Air Pollution Overview

Overview

This lecture explains the causes and effects of air pollution, its link to climate change, and possible solutions for reducing air pollution.

Air pollution consists of chemicals or particles in the atmosphere that threaten health and the environment.
Natural sources include volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and allergens.
Human-made sources mainly result from burning fossil fuels and agricultural activities.
Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases.

Greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global temperatures to rise (global warming).
Climate change intensifies some types of air pollution, including increased smog and mold due to higher temperatures and extreme weather.
Warmer weather leads to longer pollen seasons and increased pollen production.

Smog is a form of air pollution that reduces visibility and harms health.
Two types: sulfurous smog (from burning sulfur-containing fuels like coal) and photochemical smog (ground-level ozone).
Sulfurous smog contains sulfur oxides; photochemical smog forms from sunlight reacting with nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Nitrogen oxides come from car exhaust, coal power plants, and factories; VOCs are found in gasoline, paints, and cleaning solvents.
Smog irritates eyes, damages plants, and causes respiratory problems.

Toxic pollutants include mercury, lead, dioxins, and benzene released by combustion and waste incineration.
These pollutants can cause cancer, reproductive issues, and birth defects.

Reducing the use of fossil fuels in transportation, manufacturing, and electricity generation can decrease air pollution.
Limiting air pollution improves health, helps the environment, and slows global warming.

Greenhouse gases — Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, causing global temperatures to rise.
Smog — Air pollution that reduces visibility and affects health, caused by chemical reactions in the atmosphere.
Sulfurous smog — Smog formed from sulfur oxides released by burning coal and other sulfur-containing fuels.
Photochemical smog (ground-level ozone) — Smog formed when sunlight reacts with nitrogen oxides and VOCs.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) — Chemicals released from gasoline, paints, and solvents that contribute to smog.
Toxic pollutants — Harmful chemicals like mercury and lead that can cause serious health problems.