Air Pollution: Air Quality Index (AQI)

AQI stands for Air Quality Index.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for developing and maintaining the AQI.

The primary purpose of the AQI is to assess the health risks associated with air pollution.

The six criteria pollutants included in the AQI are Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Lead (Pb).

The AQI scale ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating more severe air pollution.

The AQI category corresponding to the color code green is Good.

The main component of particulate matter (PM2.5) that poses health risks is fine particles.

Ozone (O3) is primarily responsible for smog formation.

Motor vehicles are the primary source of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) is mainly emitted from power plants and industrial facilities.

Neurological damage is the primary health concern associated with carbon monoxide (CO) exposure.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) is primarily emitted from motor vehicles and contributes to acid rain.

Neurological damage is the main health risk associated with lead (Pb) exposure.

The AQI category considered unhealthy for sensitive groups is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.

When the AQI is in the 'Very Unhealthy' category, it is recommended to reduce outdoor activities, avoid strenuous activities, and stay indoors with windows closed.