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Air Pollution
Air pollution is a term we use to describe any harmful gases or particles found in the air we breathe. The chemicals that contribute to air pollution include, but are not limited to: nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), volatile organic compounds (VOC's), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and other various toxins. Pollutants can be emitted from natural sources such as volcanoes and forest fires. Human activity produces far more pollutants into the environment. Canada's largest sources of air pollution are power plants, industries and vehicle emissions. Although emission controls have improved in Canada over the last 20 years, our increasing demand for power and increased use of cars increases the use of fossil fuels - one of the 'dirtiest' sources of energy. Smog is a term used to define a mixture of ground level ozone (formed in the atmosphere from chemical reactions between NOx and VOC's) and PM formed in the atmosphere. Human health can be greatly affected by PM and ground level ozone. Canada has implemented new standards for allowable levels of PM and ground level ozone that are an important step forward in protecting the health of people sensitive to air pollution. |
Pollution Probe
The Smog Primer
June 2002
The second in a series of Pollution Probe Primers, the Smog Primer has been developed to build public understanding of the sources of smog pollutants, their effects on human health, and the things we can do to reduce smog pollution and protect ourselves and our children from harm.
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