Air pollution has many causes, including:

Burning fossil fuels

Burning coal, oil, and wood to heat homes, power plants, and drive cars releases harmful chemicals and gases into the air. 

Industrial facilities

Manufacturing chemicals and other industrial processes release pollutants into the air. 

Motor vehicles

Cars, trucks, and buses emit pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter. 

Forest fires

Forest fires are a common source of air pollution. 

Everyday activities

Even small activities like dry cleaning, filling up your car with gas, and painting can contribute to air pollution. 

Natural processes

Volcanic activities, oceans, and forests can also contribute to air pollution. 

Some pollutants of major public health concern include: particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, a

nd sulfur dioxide.