The air we breathe is an integral part of our lives. However, the growing problems of air pollution require attention and solutions at a global level. Air pollution can manifest itself in a variety of ways, so it is important to be aware of its basic aspects and try to minimise its negative impacts.

Definition and types of air pollution

Air pollution is defined as a condition in which a certain concentration of harmful substances is present in the air that may have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Air pollution can be divided into several categories according to the type of pollutants and their sources.

Types of pollution by place of origin

  1. Primary pollution
    Sources: Direct release of pollutants from sources.
    Examples: Emissions from fossil fuel combustion, transport exhaust.
  2. Secondary pollution
    Sources: Chemical changes of substances during the dispersion of exhalates in the atmosphere.
    Examples: Ozone formation from emissions of nitrogen oxides and organic compounds.

Types of pollution by pollutants

  1. Chemical pollution:
    Examples: Sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ammonia (NH₃), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
  2. Physical pollution:
    Examples: Particles, solid aerosols, fog.
  3. Biological pollution:
    Examples: Mold, bacteria, pollen.
  4. Temperature Pollution:
    Examples: Temperature smog, high temperatures in urban areas.

Relationship between emissions and immissions

In the context of air pollution, the relationship between emissions and immissions is a key aspect in air quality monitoring and management. These two concepts are closely linked and play a key role in monitoring, assessing and improving air quality.

Emissions – origin of pollutants

Emissions are the amount of harmful substances that are released into the air by various human activities. These emissions result from processes such as fossil fuel combustion, industrial production, transport and others. The pollutants that are emitted may include nitrogen oxides, sulphur, particulates and other pollutants.

Emissions – the actual presence of pollutants in the air

Imissions indicate the actual amount of pollutants present in the air at a particular place and time. These pollutants can be distributed and concentrated in different areas due to different factors. Emissions are measured at specific locations where they affect air quality and can have an impact on the environment and public health.

Sources of air pollution

Air pollution has different sources, which can be classified according to their origin and characteristics:

  1. Natural resources:
    Examples: Volcanic eruptions, forest fires, natural vegetation.
  2. Artificial sources:
    Examples: Combustion processes in the energy sector, production processes in industry, transport.
  3. Mobilné zdroje:
    Examples: Emissions from vehicles, aircraft, ships.
  4. Stacionárne zdroje:
    Examples: Emissions from stable heating plants, industrial installations.

Limit concentrations and their significance

Concentration limits are used to control air pollution. An emission limit sets the maximum permissible concentration of a pollutant when emitted, while an immission limit is the amount of a pollutant in the air at a particular location. A deposition limit expresses air pollution in terms of the mass amount of pollutant per unit area.

Air protection measures

To combat pollution, air protection measures must be taken at all levels. This can include investment in cleaner technologies, support for public transport, regulation of production processes and support for renewable energy sources.

Today, monitoring air pollution and taking effective action to reduce it is key to maintaining a healthy environment for present and future generations.

Autor: Ing. Katarína Šuranová