Major Air Pollutant

Major Air Pollutant

1. Carbon monoxide (CO)

CO is a colourless, odourless gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of carbon based fuels including petrol, diesel and wood. It is also produced from the combustion of natural and synthetic products such as cigarettes. It lowers the amount of oxygen that enters our blood. It can slow our reflexes and make us confused and sleepy.

2. Lead

Lead is present in petrol, diesel, lead batteries, paints, hair dyer products, etc. Lead affects children in particular. It can cause nervous system damage and digestive problems and in some cases, cause cancer.

3. Ozone

Ozone occurs naturally in the upper layer of atmosphere. This important gas shields the earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Vehicles and industries are the major source of ground level ozone emission. Ozone makes our eyes itch, burn and water. Its lower our resistance to cold and pneumonia.

4. Nitrogen Oxide

Nitrogen oxide causes smog and acid rain. It is produced from burning fuels including petrol, diesel and coal. Nitrogen oxides can make children susceptible to respiratory diseases in winter.

5. Sulphur dioxide

Sulphur dioxide is a gas produced from burning coal, mainly in thermal power plant. It is major contributor to smog and acid rain. Sulphur dioxide can lead to lungs diseases.

6. Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)

Chlorofluorocarbon is gases that are released mainly from air-conditioning (AC) systems & refrigeration which leads to a reduction of the ozone layer.