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IMPACT OF
AIR POLLUTION

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Due to the far reaching impact of air pollution on the environment, and in turn the ecological status, it is a key concern.

Plants are more sensitive than humans and animals to the effects of air pollution. The three most important pollutants are ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), with a greater impact on annual crops than perennial crops. The Gauteng State of the Environment report 1995 highlighted the most significant air quality issues as follows:

  • Global warming due to the generation of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, ozone and methane
  • Acid deposition where sulphates and nitrates in the atmosphere are deposited in rain, mist or through dry deposition. Acid deposition can lead to the salination and acidification of water resources and of soil.
  • Salination of water resources is caused by the accumulation of sulphates and nitrates on the land surface, and their transport into dams and lakes.
  • Sulphates and nitrates can increase soil acidity. Concentrations of toxic metals in the soil solution may increase which can impact on plant growth.

 

Air pollution in relation to impact

Pollutant

Source

Health
Ozone (O3) Action of sunlight on NO2 Asthma ;

Bronchitis ;

Irritation to the eyes and mucous membranes ;

Headaches ;

Nose & throat irritation
Lead Transportation

industry

 Reduced birth weight and lowered intelligence
Carbon dioxide Burning of fossil fuels

Incomplete combustion in motor vehicles

 Reduction in the ability of the circulatory system to transport oxygen ;

Impairment of performance on tasks requiring attention ;

Aggravation of cardiovascular disease
Suspended particles Burning of fossil fuels Damage to lung tissues causing respiratory disease
Sulphur dioxide Burning of fossil fuels, untarred roads, mining dust and agriculture Causes constriction of the airways in people with asthma, repeated exposure causes a condition similar to bronchitis.

Increased risk of acute respiratory disease
Nitrogen Burning of fossil fuels especially motor vehicles Can irritate the lungs, aggravate the condition of people suffering from asthma or chronic bronchitis
Hydro Carbons Vehicles and inudstrial processes Can cause some defects in babies during pregnancy or cancer.
Heavy metals Industry and motor vehicles Health

Heavy metals can cause cancer, defects in babies during pregnancy

Lead – Neurocognitive and neuromotor impairment
 

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Last updated: September 30, 1999.
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