Where does particle pollution come from?
[Back to Top] Some particles are directly emitted into the air, like dust, or the “soot” particles in diesel exhaust. Other tiny particles are indirectly formed when chemicals like sulfates, nitrates, and carbon condense and combine in the air. Sources of fine particles include all types of combustion from a number of sources, including cars and trucks, power plants, other industry, and residential fireplaces and wood stoves. Because cars and trucks are a major source, particle levels are generally higher near busy roadways. Diesel-powered vehicles and engines contribute more than half of motor vehicle fine particulate emissions. Indoor sources of particle pollution include smoke from tobacco, candles, wood stoves, fireplaces, and emissions from natural gas stoves. Sources of coarse particles include crushing or grinding operations, dust stirred up by vehicles traveling on unpaved roads, and windblown dust.
