Classification, Sources, and Occurrence of Outdoor Air Pollutants: A Comprehensive Overview Publisher



Rr Karri Rama RAO ; T Vera TERESA ; Sk Hassan S K ; Mi Khoder Mamdouh I ; Mh Dehghani Mohammad HADI ; Nm Mubarak N M ; R Gobinath R
Source: Published:2024

Abstract

Outdoor air pollutants exert a profound impact on environmental quality and public health, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their classification, sources, and occurrence. This review article delves into the intricate realm of outdoor air pollutants, elucidating their diverse categories and origins and shedding light on their complex distribution patterns. Detailed discussions on the health implications, measurement techniques, and regulatory standards provide insights into their varying influences on human health and environmental well-being. Concurrently, examining noncriteria pollutants, including volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and heavy metals, further unravels the intricacies of outdoor air quality management. Unveiling the sources of outdoor air pollutants unfurls an intricate interplay of anthropogenic and natural origins. Anthropogenic sources, ranging from vehicular emissions and industrial processes to agricultural activities and residential combustion, are dissected for their specific contributions. The review also delves into natural sources such as volcanic eruptions, forest fires, and biogenic emissions, elucidating their roles in the global atmospheric chemical milieu. Overall, this review article encapsulates a comprehensive panorama of outdoor air pollutants, fostering an appreciation for their complexities and prompting a call to action for sustainable air quality management in an increasingly urbanized and interconnected world. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.