The Main Pollutants

There are a vast number of chemicals and compounds which can be present in our air and help to contribute to poor air quality.
The main contaminants which the government has identified for close monitoring under Part IV of the Environment Act 1995 are:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Benzene (C6H6)
• 1,3 Butadiene
• Lead (Pb)
• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
• Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
• Particulates (PM10)

Article		Description
	Nitrogen Dioxide	A gas produced following the emission of Nitric Oxide from motor vehicles
	Particulate Matter (PM10)	Particles in the air arising from natural or man made sources.
	Sulphur Dioxide	Sulphur Dioxide is is produced from the combustion of sulphur-containing fossil fuels, principally coal and heavy oils.
	Benzene	A chemical prodcued by the combustion of petroleum and burning of cigarettes
	Carbon Monoxide	Carbon monoxide is a gas produced in the process of combustion (motor vehicle engines, domestic heating, cigarette or fire)
	Lead	A metal which can be absorbed into the body through the lungs or stomach and intestines.