{"content":[{"content":{"params":{"text":"

2.2 Anthropogenic sources of air pollution<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
2.2.1 Motor vehicles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2.2.1.1 Cars\/buses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"eea0d911-6dcb-44b6-9273-6ac7c4f91cbb"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e7372bf06dc.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":620,"height":427}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"37485ffc-92e6-4e14-883a-940e661b5e5f"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Cars emit approximately 30% of total CO2 emissions in Europe and around 20% of all emissions created worldwide. Motor vehicles are responsible for 72% of nitrogen dioxide emissions and 52% of reactive hydrocarbons worldwide. [29] Vehicles burn gasoline produced from fossil fuels, releasing pollutants in the form of:<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
nitrogen dioxide (NO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
hydrocarbons<\/span><\/li>\n\t
sulphur oxides (SOx)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
particulate matter (PM)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Pollutants caused by these types of emissions are associated with negative effects on human health\u2014especially when exposed for long periods of time or at high concentrations. [30] Automobiles emit about 1.4 billion tons of greenhouse gases annually into the atmosphere. [31] These emissions are mostly under form of carbon dioxide, which is why the burning of fuels by cars contributes to the problem of global warming. <\/span>
\n <\/p>\n\n
As technology advances and problems such as air pollution and global climate change worsen, the new models of cars that are available on the market are becoming more and more environmentally friendly. An example of this is electric and hybrid cars. When driving, these cars do not produce any emissions. They can be completely emission-free if their power source uses energy from renewable sources. However, they are not an optimal solution due to the lithium batteries that drive them. The manufacture of batteries requires large quantities of raw materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, the extraction of which has strong negative effects on the environment and climate. [32] Moreover, the life of these batteries is not eternal. Due to their complex construction, only 5% of lithium batteries are recycled, and the rest are thrown away and cause pollution. [33] Therefore, electric cars are not as environmentally friendly a vehicle alternative as they seem at first glance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

\nHydrogen powered vehicles are another alternative. Their shortcoming is also the batteries, which are charged by the chemical reactions between air and hydrogen, and water is obtained as a by-product.
\nBiofuels are also considered as an alternative to widely used fuels that come from fossil sources. They are produced from biomass - plant material or animal waste i.e., from renewable sources. Examples of such fuels are ethanol and biodiesel \u2013 they are non-toxic and biodegradable, and if spilled, they break down into harmless substances. Biofuels can also be blended with regular diesel and gasoline to be used to power diesel cars. These fuels also emit carbon dioxide when burned, but growing biomass to produce them can offset the greenhouse gas emissions released. This alternative is not entirely environmentally friendly, since to produce biofuels, fossil fuels are used in the production and transportation of the raw materials, as well as in the production of the associated pesticides. [34] In addition, some biofuels compete with food production, thereby contributing to deforestation. [35]
\nTire wear is another problem related to environmental pollution from automobiles. When driving, car tires release particulates that contain a wide variety of toxic compounds. According to some studies, pollution from tires is 2,000 times greater than the fuel burn of new cars on the market, which are designed to emit less air pollutants during travel. [36] In addition, at the end of their useful lives, many old tires are burned for recycling, which emits thick black smoke that contains carbon monoxide, cyanide, sulphur dioxide, butadiene and styrene \u2013 compounds that pose a serious threat to human health and environment. [37]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"fafe2ad8-a42d-4966-be2a-8739a8508d58"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/2z3yFPcUEF4","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"d8a35c30-450a-4762-951f-fbda722e9aba"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.1.2 Airplanes<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"c65eb775-eb93-4d8a-8065-fd22c003cc4d"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e737a4bf82c.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":204}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"1ffbe483-9fd0-43fc-a24a-cdb66796d26e"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Emissions from air vehicles are growing faster than any other form of transport. For example, CO2 emissions from flights in Europe have increased by 28% since 2013, contributing significantly to global warming. [38] Airplanes are powered by burning fossil fuels. Therefore, not only carbon dioxide is released, but also: [39]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NOX)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
sulphur oxides (SOX)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
unburnt hydrocarbons (HC)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
particulate matter (PM)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
volatile organic compounds (VOC)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
soot<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Only 10% of the emissions related to aviation are released near the earth's surface, and 90% of them \u2013 at a height above 900 m. [40] An exception to this are some emissions of CO and HCs, which are released only near the ground. The greatest health impacts from aviation activities are emissions of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Some of the pollutants released into the atmosphere interact with other substances and elements, undergo chemical reactions with which other pollutants are formed - secondary dust particles and ground-level ozone. [41]
\nAviation emissions also affect climate change. Since most of the emissions are released in the upper atmosphere, they have a powerful effect on the climate due to the chemical reactions that take place at this height. In flight, airplanes move at cloud level, where they release soot and sulphur emissions. These emissions mix with the water vapor in the clouds and at low temperatures (-30\u00b0C) that are characteristic of this altitude freeze and form \"cirrus\" clouds. Ice crystals trap solar energy and cause atmospheric warming from 8 am to 6 pm after the emissions are released. [42]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"bd15028a-ac62-4661-b7e7-0b1bd9908641"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Y5ny2TJl3Y8","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"543e615c-6a98-47a9-96d1-d46b9708304d"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.1.3 Sailing vessels<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"e84ae898-5f42-48a3-9969-261af942f8c5"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e73801e28cf.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":480}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"8fb0ba56-2013-4ac8-af1e-0d040e94262b"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
These vehicles are also powered by fossil fuels, thus emitting air pollutants, adversely affecting air quality and human health, and contributing to climate change. Maritime transport is considered to be the most energy-efficient way of transporting large cargoes, and therefore approximately 80% of the world's goods are transported by cargo ships. [43] The three main types of ships that are responsible for most of the emissions in this type of transport is container ships, bulk carriers and oil tankers. [44]
\nMotor ships use fuel oil as fuel because it is much cheaper than gasoline used in land transport. Fuel oil generally has a strong polluting effect \u2013 it contains 2700 times more sulphur dioxide (SO2) than the fuels used to move on land. [45]
\nThe main types of atmospheric pollutants emitted by this type of transport are: [46]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
methane (CH4)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrous oxide (N2O)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NOx)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
sulphur dioxide (SO2)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Emissions from shipping have increased in recent decades, contrary to those from land transport. Compared to carbon dioxide emissions from land transport, those from shipping are about a fifth less, those of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter are about the same, and emissions of sulphur oxides are significantly higher. [47] In 2013 alone, emissions from ships carrying out international trade around Europe were estimated at 1.6 million tonnes of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and 3 million tonnes of nitrogen oxides (NOx). In the future, NOx emissions from shipping are expected to equal and even exceed the total emissions from all land-based vehicles in the EU member states combined. [48]
\nShipping also contributes to climate change through emissions of black carbon, which are tiny black particles released into the atmosphere when ship fuel is burned. This pollutant accounts for 21% of CO2-equivalent emissions from ships, making it the second most important contributor to shipping's climate impact after carbon dioxide. [49]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"33cad330-331b-42a4-9744-d9eff8881573"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/yl5xYm-0hvo","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"cb3d662a-a84e-4ad1-8be2-6df83030aa58"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.1.4 Diesel trains<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"9a235904-a12f-48bd-978f-19cad2944af9"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e7385fb7692.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":3711,"height":4639}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"a2f2affc-55e2-4d6a-a486-5570f96a95d9"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Diesel trains are used all over the world to transport passengers. They, like many other means of transport, have diesel engines. The fuel used to drive them emits harmful air pollutants: [50]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
dust particles (PM10 and PM2.5)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NOx)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
including nitrogen dioxide (NO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
soot<\/span><\/li>\n\t
black carbon <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Diesel train travel, especially for those close to the engine, can expose passengers to high levels of air pollutants \u2013 higher than those emitted on busy roads. Compared to electric trains, dust particles were found to be 35 times higher and soot 6 times higher in cars that were driven by a diesel locomotive. [51] In addition, black carbon pollution was 6 times higher, this with nitrogen oxides (NOx) is 8 times higher, and for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) it is 3 times more, the released PM2.5 dust particles are also 2 times more, and the amount of benzo(a)pyrene released is 6 times higher big. [52]
\nLong-term exposure to emissions from diesel engines is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer [53] and cardiovascular disease. [54] In addition, released atmospheric pollutants contribute to global warming.<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"3b907811-b660-4865-82d5-656974984905"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/nwa8jP9fa1Y","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"e6f6a0cd-5379-478d-8282-b2aef4d69889"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.1.5 Motorbikes<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"ab72b6e0-7cc2-4440-8c0e-3ccfcb6b13c1"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e738d023108.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":960}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"0c0f7a82-d445-42d5-a27c-d5d8823e63d6"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Motorcycle emissions contribute significantly to air pollution. Motorcycles emit large amounts of oil (burnt or not) which may contain harmful compounds due to fuel additives. The gases released also contain large amounts of unburned fuel (hydrocarbons), which is a major factor in the formation of smog in cities. The main pollutants that are emitted as a result of the burning of fuels from motorcycles are: [55]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
particulate matter (PM),<\/span><\/li>\n\t
hydrocarbons (HC),<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2), <\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NOx)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
other hazardous emissions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Motorcycles are generally more fuel efficient than cars and emit less carbon dioxide, but have been found to emit higher emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. [56] This is because bikers often modify motorcycles, which affects the equipment for emission control. Data from a study comparing emissions from cars and motorcycles shows that motorcycles use 28% less fuel and emit 30% less carbon dioxide emissions, but emit 416% more hydrocarbons, 3,220% more nitrogen oxides and 8% more carbon monoxide. [57]
\nThe released hydrocarbons increase the effect of global warming, and some of them are carcinogenic to humans. [58] Therefore, electric scooters and motorbikes are now available on the market, which do not emit harmful emissions when driven, but they have the same environmental problems as in the case of electric cars - the energy with which they are driven in most cases does not come from renewable sources, and lithium batteries are difficult to recycle.<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"a620faba-b048-4992-ba8b-2f1e74a24fd8"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ey21Oj453-0","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"19b39035-29d7-42c9-97d6-b605e8c476bf"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.2 Production processes<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2.2.2.1 Factories<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"5860e489-8ed2-4a3d-b222-4e2d6a778040"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e7393615dd7.png","mime":"image\/png","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":629,"height":426}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"cbac2be0-0d98-47d4-9006-c4002e0e20bd"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
The onset of the industrial revolution and the development of technology ushered in the era of various industries that contribute greatly to the pollution of the atmosphere. The production of products is associated with the release of large amounts of atmospheric pollutants \u2013 factories contribute to 2\/3 of the pollution that causes climate change. [59] Factories pollute the air by releasing chemical fumes and smoke through vents and smokestacks, as well as by incineration of waste in open dumps or incinerators. The processes that contribute most to industrial pollution are the following: [60] <\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Combustion of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, petroleum)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Use of chemical solvents in some industries (in leather processing, in paints)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Discharge of raw gases and liquid waste<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Improper disposal of radioactive materials<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
The types of pollutants that are emitted from these activities depend on the production processes and the type of product that is produced and the chimney filters through which the pollutants are discharged. The six main types of industrial pollutants are the following: [61]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Particulate matter (PM) - includes any type of solid or liquid particles, the composition of which is diverse - chemicals and substances from natural and man-made sources: dust, smoke, mold, sulphates, nitrates, ammonia and others. They are released mainly as a result of combustion processes in factories.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Vlatile organic compounds (VOCs) \u2013 again a diverse group of atmospheric pollutants. In the industrial sector, they are released during the burning of fossil fuels, the production of methanol, the processing of oil, in some processes related to the production of metals. They can also be retained in industrial solvents, hydraulic fluids and paint thinners.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) - are released mainly during the burning of fossil fuels and especially during the burning of coal and some production processes.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Sulphur oxides (SOx) - metal processing factories account for the largest share of emissions in the sector<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Ozone (O3) \u2013 is formed as a by-product of some industrial processes, due to the chemical reactions between the pollutants released by the production processes.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Lead (Pb) \u2013 its release into the atmosphere occurs during the burning of coal, oil and waste products that contain lead.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Some of the listed pollutants, in addition to having an adverse effect on human health, also contribute to global warming. Pollutants such as methane and carbon dioxide absorb solar radiation, thereby increasing global temperatures.<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"a7424a61-6522-4346-8133-5d21c0e2a77e"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/30OeY7Gn91o","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"b56d65c9-cc79-4441-a219-9768a628d231"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.2.2 Power plants <\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"b726f163-ef5d-4e0d-a9b6-b2972aad2229"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e7398a98d90.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":480}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"fc07a076-f8f5-47a8-b539-53d92fe822b9"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Power plants pollute the air by producing energy by burning coal, oil and natural gas. Burning these fuels produces either hot air or steam to drive the electric turbines that produce electricity. Numerous atmospheric pollutants are released during the process, as well as from the power generation structure \u2013 natural gas pipelines, coal delivery and storage systems, and more. In addition, the production of steam requires the use of large quantities of water, which must be purified, but in most cases, when they are released back into nature, they are at a higher temperature and contain pollutants that have an adverse effect on the environment.
\nThe burning of fossil fuels in power plants contributes to significant emissions: [62]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
sulphur dioxide (SO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NOx)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
ozone (O3)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
particulate matter (PM2.5 or PM10)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
lead (Pb)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
mercury (Hg)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
cadmium (Cd)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
acetaldehyde (CH3CHO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
hydrochloric acid (H2SO4)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
other pollutants<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfuric acid SO2 contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter, which has consequences for human health and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Exposure to mercury released during energy production can increase the possibility of health problems such as immune system damage and cancer. [63]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"757f8744-2a74-4a0f-9c1f-71603db9a69b"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/6ph2JzM0dsU","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"10db274c-bbd3-4783-bb18-8d11fe9ebc61"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.3 Burning wood for heating<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"f4b50b76-fde7-4c1f-86a2-a79335b1d97e"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e739dc045a5.png","mime":"image\/png","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":469,"height":312}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"55d647d7-f14a-4f07-bad2-9bf50fe118cf"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Wood burning is a serious problem for urban air quality across Europe, and excessive exposure to wood burning smoke can cause serious health effects. [64] In southern and eastern European countries, domestic heating is responsible for 14% from exceeding PM10 standards. In some countries in Europe, it is among the most significant sources of atmospheric pollutants, especially during the winter months during which meteorological conditions are not suitable for the dispersion of pollutants. [65] Among the countries that reported domestic heating as a significant source of exceedances of the norms for this polluter, are Slovakia (50%), Bulgaria (45%), Poland (38%) and Romania (36%). [66]
\nThere are over 100 hazardous chemicals released from burning wood that can be toxic and carcinogenic (cancer-causing). [67] Air pollutants that are contained in smoke from burning wood or other organic matter are: [68]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
particulate matter (PM)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
benzene (C6H6)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon monoxide (CO)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
carbon dioxide (CO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
formaldehyde (CH2O)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
acrolein (C3H4O)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
sulfur dioxide (SO2)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
The burning of wood for heating is associated with a deterioration of ambient air quality by releasing pollutants into closed spaces and the atmosphere. Improper combustion intensifies these effects. Some of the ways to mitigate the effect of burning wood are: [69]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Proper use and storage of wood. The use of raw wood (wood material with higher moisture content) is associated with more difficult burning and the release of more smoke and atmospheric pollutants. Therefore, it is good to store the wood in dry rooms for a year, which reduces the humidity in it by 30%. The release of heat when burning properly stored wood is associated with reduced efficiency and less particulate matter.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Correct arrangement of wood. By placing the wood with the kindling on it, it helps to burn the wood correctly - from top to bottom, as well as providing enough oxygen and heat for complete combustion of the wood.<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Replacing the stove. Old heating stoves are less efficient than new ones, which are up to 90% more efficient. The latter use smaller wood for heating, which is associated with the release of less atmospheric pollutants.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"e74aa138-3f32-4d10-bd97-afbf0f3de9be"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/_t7g7B_Ej1M","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"bfb2729a-9be2-48de-af4d-94daaff30ef6"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.4 Construction and repair activities<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"93358f01-da41-4ae1-a929-7aa81c32d6ce"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e73a2c7adbc.png","mime":"image\/png","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":639,"height":426}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"505e5fb5-00d4-4f27-b498-36bfefc54933"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Construction activities are a major contributor to air pollution. Air pollution from construction activities can be transported over long distances. Examples of construction activities that contribute to this are: [70]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Use of equipment and vehicles (machines such as crushers, bulldozers, dump trucks and excavators) Because many of these machines and other vehicles on site are powered by diesel engines that emit dust-sized particles in the form of soot, sulphates and silicates. In addition to particulate matter, the use of these machines also emits carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and carbon<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Clearing and demolition of grounds and buildings, due to which a lot of dust is raised. Construction materials such as cement, stone, silicon dioxide are characterized by their tendency to release dust over large areas. Dust is one of the main sources of dust particles smaller than 10 microns in diameter. [71]<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Chemicals. In construction, a large number of paints, adhesives, oils, thinners and plastics are used, which emit harmful fumes and volatile organic compounds.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Air pollution from construction activities can have a detrimental effect on the health of workers and residents near the site. These pollutants can degrade indoor air quality by being transported through heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. [72] In addition to PM contained in dust, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can enter indoors. Demolition of building materials can also lead to exposure to mold, absinthe, lead, and other pollutants that affect indoor air quality. [73]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"69d2fe5e-ccd6-4bee-a64a-e2391aea785f"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/jYhjxMZqCiY","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"cfa7fb83-a9ca-45e2-90ae-b0e3ad66ac7a"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.5 Agriculture<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"7a50f5a6-e28b-47c9-8a48-74f3843ebd2e"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e73a7b25af0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":427}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"8939961f-f9cb-4893-bab8-d16307adb327"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Agricultural air pollution manifests itself most dramatically in the form of methane (NH4), which is released into the atmosphere in the form of excessive fertilization with nitrogen fertilizers and organic waste from farm animals and their activities. Cattle emit methane mainly through exhalation (burping) - 90-95%, and the rest of the emitted methane comes from the release of gases as a result of digestion. [74] Microorganisms develop in the digestive system of ruminants, helping them to break down and digest plant food. During the activity of these organisms, methane is formed, which is a by-product and is subsequently released into the atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
Emissions from animal manure and chemicals account for 95% of total methane emissions, which includes up to 58% of particulate matter affecting air quality and agricultural conditions in European cities.[76] Agriculture is responsible for 10% of total greenhouse gas emissions in EU, including: carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide - which contributes to ground-level ozone pollution. [77] In addition, animal waste from farm animals contains hydrogen sulphide. [78]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
The production of cereals, fruits and vegetables for market needs is also associated with the release of atmospheric pollutants. The main pollution in growing agricultural crops comes from the use of large amounts of nitrogen fertilizers in order to enrich the soil and obtain a better harvest. As nitrogen is released from the soil, which bursts with excessive fertilization, it reacts with oxygen in the atmosphere to form nitrous oxide (N2O), which is a powerful greenhouse gas, as well as nitrogen oxide (NO), which contributes to the formation of smog. [79]<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"9c7f2a45-afe1-4924-b290-90078a1350c3"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e73a9026c78.png","mime":"image\/png","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":423}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"2962ed51-8ef0-4321-bab0-1c213fa8c8c3"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
Another way to pollute the atmosphere when growing agricultural crops is through the application of pesticides, which are used to combat plant pests. Some of them can only remain in the atmosphere for a short period of time, unlike others. [80] When pesticides are applied from the air, they can be transported over long distances because they attach to particles carried by air currents and become deposited with the fall of rains. [81] These synthetic preparations are harmful to human health and the environment.<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"505bae95-7494-4462-a2cb-edaa361cd1e7"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
2.2.6 Fuel evaporation (in gas station, leaking gas pipes, etc.)<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"8b70ac44-538d-4881-9dc1-f419a25a767c"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"decorative":true,"contentName":"Image","file":{"path":"images\/file-63e73acddc532.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","copyright":{"license":"U"},"width":640,"height":426}},"library":"H5P.Image 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Image","license":"U","title":"Untitled Image"},"subContentId":"d89b7bc1-17cc-410e-ab59-deee2f8663ab"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"text":"\n
The pollutants that are released into the environment as a result of accidents and fuel leaks at gas stations are petroleum products (gasoline and diesel fuel) are a mixture of volatile organic compounds and additives that are mixed in order to improve the quality of fuels. Among the many compounds that are contained in them and cause pollution from gas stations are: [82]<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Benzene <\/span><\/li>\n\t
Toluene<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Ethylbenzene<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Xylenes<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Lead (Pb)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
MTBE<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Ethylene Dichloride (EDC)<\/span><\/li>\n\t
Naphthalene<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Gas leaks happen at gas stations every day when people fill up their tanks. When petrol is spilled, the fuel falls to the ground and atmospheric pollutants evaporate from it, as well as from the open tank. In addition, leaks can also occur in pipelines and storage tanks, where they are difficult to detect. [83]
\nNatural gas (methane) is a fossil fuel that produces only carbon dioxide, water vapor and small amounts of nitrogen oxide when burned. It is used to power consumer products (stoves, fireplaces, clothes dryers, stoves and as fuel for cars). Its leakage contributes to atmospheric pollution. A leak in the gas infrastructure can create concentrated points of atmospheric pollution air, which can affect human health as well as the environment, since this infrastructure often crosses undeveloped areas. [84] Natural gas is flammable and its leakage can cause fires, and inhalation can lead to poisoning.
\nLarge-scale methane leaks are occurring in oil and gas fields around the world, some amounting to hundreds of thousands of tons. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that, due to its structure, traps more heat than carbon dioxide, making it 80 times more damaging to climate change.[85] In addition to leakage, accident-induced releases of the gas into the atmosphere also occur during drilling, production and other operations of the gas and oil industries. In some cases, it is intentionally released from oil and gas facilities for safety reasons due to its flammability.<\/span><\/p>\n\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"66c7d3f1-2fc9-465c-b015-bac14bd29e58"},"useSeparator":"auto"},{"content":{"params":{"visuals":{"fit":true,"controls":true},"playback":{"autoplay":false,"loop":false},"l10n":{"name":"Video","loading":"Video player loading...","noPlayers":"Found no video players that supports the given video format.","noSources":"Video is missing sources.","aborted":"Media playback has been aborted.","networkFailure":"Network failure.","cannotDecode":"Unable to decode media.","formatNotSupported":"Video format not supported.","mediaEncrypted":"Media encrypted.","unknownError":"Unknown error.","invalidYtId":"Invalid YouTube ID.","unknownYtId":"Unable to find video with the given YouTube ID.","restrictedYt":"The owner of this video does not allow it to be embedded."},"sources":[{"path":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/kiiLzsleuwU","mime":"video\/YouTube","copyright":{"license":"U"}}]},"library":"H5P.Video 1.6","metadata":{"contentType":"Video","license":"U","title":"Untitled Video"},"subContentId":"dc0b9237-f5fc-4c0e-9718-d15a0a6481e9"},"useSeparator":"auto"}]}

UNIT 2: Human and natural causes of gas emissions

UNIT 2: Human and natural causes of gas emissions