What Is NO2?
Nitrogen dioxide, or NO2, is a significant gaseous air pollutant that contains nitrogen and oxygen. It belongs to the nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) group, which are responsible for various harmful environmental effects.These pollutants can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma, irritate the respiratory system, and reduce lung function. Due to these harmful effects, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established air quality standards to limit NO₂ concentrations in the atmosphere.
Where does NO2 Come From?
Nitrogen dioxide forms when fossil fuels such as coal, oil, methane gas (natural gas) or diesel are burned at high temperatures. Outdoors, NO₂ contributes to both particle pollution and ozone formation through complex chemical reactions. The largest contributors to NO₂ emissions are trucks, buses, and cars, which collectively make up a significant share due to widespread fuel combustion in transportation. Other major sources include diesel-powered non-road equipment, industrial activities (particularly in oil and gas), industrial boilers, various movable engines, and coal-fired power plants. Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and other nitrogen oxides are indeed byproducts of burning natural gas (methane), which can occur both outdoors and indoors. Outdoors, NO₂ emissions come from gas-fired power plants and facilities involved in oil and gas extraction, processing, or transport, especially when burning gas in flares or to power machinery. Indoors, common appliances such as stoves, dryers, space heaters, and water heaters that use natural gas, LPG (like propane and butane), or kerosene are also sources of NO₂
Who Is at Risk from NO2 exposure?
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Individuals who are pregnant;
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Infants, children and teens;
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Older adults (>65 years of age);
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People with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung cancer
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Current or former smokers;
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People with low socioeconomic status; and
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People of color.
How NO2 Harms Your Health?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) poses several health risks, particularly for the respiratory system. Exposure to elevated NO₂ levels can lead to:
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Increased inflammation of the airways: NO₂ irritates the lining of the respiratory tract, triggering inflammation that can worsen with prolonged exposure.
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Worsened cough and wheezing: Individuals may experience increased coughing and wheezing, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
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Reduced lung function: NO₂ exposure can diminish lung efficiency, making it harder to breathe and process oxygen.
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Increased asthma attacks: NO₂ can exacerbate asthma symptoms, leading to more frequent and severe attacks.
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Greater likelihood of emergency department and hospital admissions: The respiratory effects of NO₂ exposure increase the chances of emergency room visits and hospitalizations, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with asthma.