1 What is air pollution- A Breif Background

Attributed as a cause of death for 8.08 people in 2021, according to OurWorldInData.org, air pollution is the second largest risk factor in the world, right under high blood pressure. The EPA defines air pollution as one or more chemicals or substances in high enough concentrations in the air to harm humans, other animals, vegetation, or materials. (EPA) The World Health Organization defines air pollution as contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. (WHO) Air pollution is an issue that affects every living person, and it is a shared responsibility to maintain clear, breathable, safe air. (A.B)^1,11

 What Causes Air Pollution

The combustion of fossil fuels, industrial facilities, and forest fires are common sources of air pollution. When considering what causes air pollution, regulating bodies often focus on what they term, Criteria Pollutants when deciding reduction measures. Criteria pollutants are the major air pollutants that regulators look to manage as they are the most likely to cause harm to humans or the environment. The following section will go over the major criteria pollutants. (A.B)¹