Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution is the result of burning fuel such as vehicles, power plants, and off-road equipment. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it is a highly reactive gas that can easily form acids. This property of the substance leads to the formation of acid rains that damaging sensitive ecosystems such as lakes and forests. Additionally, it contributes to air haziness affecting national parks and other attractions people visit for the view. In summary, NO2 is a dangerous pollutant as it adds to other environmental problems, such as acid rains, water pollution, and lowering biodiversity through disturbance of natural habitat.
Exposure to nitrogen monoxide is also associated with adverse effects on human health. According to EPA, NO2 irritates the human respiratory system can be related to aggravation of asthma and other chronic conditions. Long-term exposure to the gas can cause asthma and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections (EPA). Moreover, Hamra et al. state that NO2 may be a reason for the emergence of lung cancer in urban settings (1111). Nitrogen dioxide also reacts with chemicals in the air to form harmful substances, such as ozone, that can cause health issues. In short, NO2 is dangerous both for environmental sustainability and human well-being.
Works Cited
Hamra, Ghassan B. et al. “Lung Cancer and Exposure to Nitrogen Dioxide and Traffic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Environmental Health Perspectives, vol. 123, no. 11, 2015, pp. 1107-1112. Environmental Health Perspectives, Web.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. “Basic Information about NO2.”EPA, Web.