The government has identified 8 air pollutants that have most impact on our health.
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
- Particulates (PM10)
- Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Ground Level Ozone (O3)
- Benzene, 1-3 butadiene
- Lead (Pb)
In Aberdeen the most common pollutants are NO2 and PM10 due to emissions from road traffic. While healthy people will not be troubled by the pollution levels we usually experience, those with asthma or other pre-existing conditions may find symptoms worsen during periods of high NO2 or PM10 levels. However, everyone is at risk of effects from long term exposure to pollution including people living or working close to busy congested streets.