Some chemicals found in polluted air can cause cancer, birth defects, brain and nerve damage, and long-term injury to the lungs and breathing passages in certain circumstances. Above certain concentrations and durations, certain air pollutants are extremely dangerous and can cause severe injury or death. Air pollution can also damage the environment and property. Trees, lakes and animals have been harmed by air pollution. Air pollution has thinned the protective ozone layer above the Earth.
Air pollution can damage buildings, monuments, statues and other structures.
Air pollution also can result in haze, which reduces visibility in national parks and elsewhere, and can sometimes interfere with aviation. There are a number of sites that provide information on this topic. For more detailed information on the causes, effects and prevention of air pollution, visit the EPA's Unified Air Toxic Website and its Office of Air and Radiation . EPA has also created a New Air Toxics Informational Page. Join the Foundation for Clean Air Progress.