Air Pollution Sources
There are seven key pollutants covered by the National Air Quality Strategy. These are air pollutants that are known to have adverse effects on human health in sufficiently high concentrations and occur in many parts of the UK. Many of the pollutants can also damage natural environments and buildings.
Bracknell Forest Borough Council continuously monitors for nitrogen dioxide, particulates and ozone.
| Pollutant | Sources and Health Effects |
| Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) | Sources
Vehicle exhausts, domestic boilers, power stations and industry. Health Effects
In high concentrations is an irritant of the lungs and can increase the risk of an asthma attack. |
| Carbon monoxide (CO) | Health Effects
Stops the body working effectively, displaces the vital oxygen supply can cause headaches, dizziness and even fatality. Sources
Road traffic accounts for about 90% of CO emissions. It is produced entirely from human activity. |
| Fine Particulate matter (PM10) | Sources
Natural sources include soil dust in the wind, sea spray and natural fires. Human activity of quarrying and construction, Traffic accounts for approximately 50%. Health Effects
Can cause severe lung inflammation and other cardiovascular and pulmonary illnesses. |
| Ozone (O3) | Sources
Forms as a result of complicated chemical reactions with other pollutants and sunlight. Health Effects
Irritates eyes, nose and throat results in coughing, chest-pains and nausea. Irritates the lungs and makes existing asthma conditions worse. |
| Benzene | Sources
Petrol vehicles. Health Effects
Long term exposure can increase the risk of cancer. |
| Lead (Pb) | Sources
Petrol Vehicles and industry. Health Effects
Acute exposure effects the nervous system and the kidneys. |
| Sulphur dioxide (SO2) | Sources
Diesel fuel emissions, fossil fuelled power generating industry, domestic boilers. Health Effects
Aggravates existing asthma and can cause chronic bronchitis. |
