Air pollutants are things like gases and particles that pollute the air. The AQA sets limits and standards for the concentrations of these gases and particles. The following are some of the most important air pollutants (for which the Minister has set national standards in regulations):

Carbon monoxide – its main source is burning fuel from motor vehicles as well as from burning wood and industrial processes;

Sulphur dioxide – coal-fired power stations and diesel engines are the main sources of this gas;

Lead – lead is found in non-lead-free fuels, paints, batteries and pipes; when it is heated it becomes a liquid and appears in the air as fine particles;

Particulate matter – Particulates are the tiny particles in the air, such as soot, dust, smoke, pollen, ash, aerosols and droplets of liquid. This can be seen as a white or brown haze. Very small particulates can be breathed deep into the lungs. The sources of particulates include fuels, diesel engines, wood burning, industrial smokestacks and chimneys.

Sulphur dioxide – coal-fired power stations and diesel engines are the main sources of this gas;

Lead – lead is found in non-lead-free fuels, paints, batteries and pipes; when it is heated it becomes a liquid and appears in the air as fine particles;

Particulate matter – Particulates are the tiny particles in the air, such as soot, dust, smoke, pollen, ash, aerosols and droplets of liquid. This can be seen as a white or brown haze. Very small particulates can be breathed deep into the lungs. The sources of particulates include fuels, diesel engines, wood burning, industrial smokestacks and chimneys.

(Source: City of Cape Town – Air quality)