Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

When fuels are burned, nitrogen (N2) and oxygen (O2) are combined at high temperatures and pressure, resulting in compounds like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitric oxide (NO). Once released into the atmosphere, such compounds play an important role in creating harmful particulate matter, ground-level ozone (smog) and acid rain. 

The two major emissions sources are transportation vehicles and stationary combustion sources. In the US, for example, EPA estimates that 49% come from on-road and off-road vehicles, 27% from power generation and 24% from industrial, commercial and residential sources. As new regulations came into force, major air pollutants emissions, such as carbon monoxide, lead, ozone, particulate matter and sulphur dioxide, have been reduced significantly. In contrast, NOx emissions have actually increased over the past 30 years by about 10%; this means an increase in developed regions by nearly 4 million tons each year.

What are the harmful effects of NOx emissions? NOx emissions contribute to the formation of fine particles and ozone smog that cost billions annually from illnesses, deaths and environmental problems. 

HEALTH EFFECTS:
  • Airway irritation, coughing, and pain when taking deep breaths;
  • Wheezing and breathing difficulties during exercise or outdoor activities;
  • Inflammation, which is much like a sunburn on the skin; 
  • Aggravation of asthma and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis; and,
  • Permanent lung damage with repeated exposures.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS:
  • Interfering with the ability of sensitive plants to produce and store food, making them more susceptible to certain diseases, insects, other pollutants, competition and harsh weather;
  • Damaging the leaves of trees and other plants, negatively impacting the appearance of urban vegetation, as well as vegetation in national parks and recreation areas; and
  • Reducing forest growth and crop yields, potentially impacting species diversity in ecosystems.

SAURER REGEN - EUROPA

SMOG/SAURER REGEN - USA

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