The science of air pollution is complex and evolving. Becoming informed is a key to citizens becoming effective players in preventing air pollution. This primer provides a resource for understanding the basics of air pollution science. Listed below are common air pollutants and a brief discussion to help citizens become more informed about what goes into their air.
Some pollutants affect only small regional areas, while others can travel the globe.
This means that the production of chemicals has risen from approximately 1 million tonnes per year in the 1930's to 250 million in 1985.