AIR POLLUTION

The presence of harmful substances in the air, which can be either natural or man-made. These substances, known as pollutants, can be gases, liquids, or solid particles, and they can have detrimental effects on human health, ecosystems, and the environment.  Efforts to mitigate air pollution involve regulatory measures, technological advancements, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality.

SOME MAIN SOURCE OF AIR POLLUTION ARE :

• Residential Heating and Cooking: Burning of fossil fuels (e.g., wood, coal, oil, and natural gas) in households for heating, cooking, and lighting can release pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
• Microplastics in the Atmosphere: Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic less than 5 mm in size, are increasingly being detected in the atmosphere. They can originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items, as well as from sources like synthetic textiles and microbeads in personal care products.
• Indoor Air Quality: While outdoor air pollution often receives more attention, indoor air quality can also be a significant concern. Factors such as inadequate ventilation, combustion of solid fuels for cooking and heating, use of certain household products (e.g., cleaning agents, paints), and presence of allergens and mold can all contribute to poor indoor air quality.
• Pollen and Spores: Plants release pollen grains and spores into the air as part of their reproductive cycle. While not pollutants in the traditional sense, high concentrations of pollen can trigger allergies and respiratory problems in sensitive individuals.
• Biogenic Sulfur Compounds: Phytoplankton and marine organisms emit sulfur-containing compounds, such as dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which can undergo chemical transformations in the atmosphere and contribute to aerosol formation.