air polution.pptx air polution.pptx air polution.pptx

air polution

1. Sources of Air Pollution Understanding the Causes of Air Quality Degradation Name : Akanksha Sarowar Branch : ECE Roll No : 14 Div : FY(D) Prepared By -

2. Introduction to Air Pollution What is Air Pollution? Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere that can cause health problems, environmental damage, and contribute to climate change. It includes both solid particles and gases that are harmful to living organisms, ecosystems, and the planet. Air pollution can be categorized as indoor and outdoor pollution.

3. Major Sources of Air Pollution Natural Sources of Air Pollution: Volcanic Eruptions: Release large amounts of ash, sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and other gases into the atmosphere. These particles can travel across continents. Wildfires : Forest fires release particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and other harmful pollutants into the air. Dust Storms: High winds lift dust and sand into the air, leading to significant levels of particulate pollution, especially in desert regions. Pollen and Biological Activity: Pollens and spores released by plants and fungi can contribute to air pollution, particularly in allergic reactions.

4. Human-made Sources of Air Pollution Industrial Emissions: Industries such as manufacturing, mining, and construction release various pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems. Vehicle Emissions: Exhaust from cars, trucks, buses, and airplanes contain carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), hydrocarbons, and particulate matter. These contribute to smog formation, ground-level ozone (a harmful pollutant), and respiratory diseases.

5. Agricultural Sources of Air Pollution Livestock Farming: Animals like cows, sheep, and goats produce methane (CH₄) as part of their digestive process. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and contributes to global warming. Livestock farming also generates ammonia, which can combine with other pollutants to create particulate matter. Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides: Fertilizers, particularly those high in nitrogen, release nitrous oxide (N₂O), a potent greenhouse gas. Pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air pollution and pose health risks.

6. Energy Production and Fossil Fuels Coal, Oil, and Natural Gas: Burning fossil fuels in power plants, industrial processes, and vehicles releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter. These pollutants contribute to global warming, acid rain, and respiratory illnesses. Power Plants and Refineries: Power plants, especially coal-fired ones, release large quantities of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter into the air. Oil refineries and other processing industries also emit VOCs and other harmful gases.

7. Waste Management and Disposal Landfills: As organic waste decomposes in landfills, it produces methane (CH₄), a potent greenhouse gas. Improperly managed landfills can also release harmful leachates that pollute surrounding areas. Landfills are a major source of urban air pollution, particularly in regions with high waste production. Burning Waste: Open burning of waste, especially plastics and household trash, releases carbon monoxide (CO), dioxins, and particulate matter into the air. Incinerators, when not properly controlled, can emit toxic substances that contribute to poor air quality.

8. Indoor Air Pollution Household Chemicals: Cleaning products, paints, solvents, and other household chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to indoor air pollution. These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems. Some household items like air fresheners and scented candles also release harmful chemicals into the air . Cooking and Heating: Cooking with gas stoves or wood-burning stoves releases pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter (PM). Poor ventilation exacerbates indoor pollution, leading to health risks, especially in poorly ventilated homes.

9. Construction and Demolition Dust and Particulate Matter: During construction and demolition activities, dust particles (PM10 and PM2.5) are released into the atmosphere. These particles can be harmful when inhaled and contribute to respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases. Construction machinery can also stir up dust and debris, leading to localized air pollution. Pollutants from Machinery: Construction equipment powered by diesel engines emits nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM), and carbon dioxide (CO₂), all of which contribute to air pollution.

10. Conclusion Key Takeaways: Air pollution results from both natural and human-made sources, with human activities contributing significantly to its levels. Major contributors include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, agriculture, waste management, and energy production. Reducing air pollution requires collective efforts across industries, governments, and individuals. Changes in energy production, waste management, and transportation are key to improving air quality. Personal actions, like reducing energy consumption, using public transport, and adopting cleaner technologies, can also play a role in mitigating indoor and outdoor pollution.

11. Thank You