Why is air pollution a problem in California?
Three main factors are behind the unhealthy levels of air pollution in California: • Large amounts of air pollution are generated by the activities of 33 million people, • Terrain or topography traps pollution, and • A warm, sunny climate helps form ozone and other air pollutants. Lots of People, Lots of Pollution During personal and business activities, Californians release thousands of tons of pollutants into the air every day. Although each of us may only produce a small amount of air pollution, the combined pollution from the 33 million Californians adds up to a big problem. Sources of Air Pollution Some air pollutants are formed and released during the combustion (burning) of petroleum-based products and other fuels such as wood. Examples of these air pollution sourcesare: • Gasoline and diesel-powered motor vehicles such as cars, trucks, trains and boats; • Factories; • Power plants; and • Fireplaces. Many tons of pollutants also enter the air through evaporation (liquids turning
