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Pollutant Impacts
Nitrogen oxides (NO ) Includes various nitrogen compounds such as nitrogen
x
dioxide (NO ), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrous oxide (N O). NO
2 2 x
leads to the formation of atmospheric particulate matter,
ground-level ozone (smog), and acid rain. NO exposure
2
can lead to, or aggravate, respiratory ailments. N O is a
2
greenhouse gas
Reactive organic gases (ROG) Precursor pollutants that lead the creation of atmospheric
particulate matter and ground-level ozone (smog). Many
organic gases are hazardous compounds that can lead to
increased cancer and other health risks
Carbon monoxide (CO) Can temporarily or permanently impact the human brain,
nervous tissues, heart muscles, and other tissues that
require a large amount of oxygen to function
Sulfur oxides (SO ) Irritates nerves in the lining of the nose and throat and
x
lung. This can cause reflex cough, irritation, and may lead to
narrowing of the airways. Persons suffering from asthma and
chronic lung disease are most susceptible. SO emissions
2
contribute to acid rain, acid fog and atmospheric PM
Particulate matter (PM) Fine particles can be aerosol carriers of toxic and biological
materials that are easily inhaled and absorbed into the
bloodstream. Exposure to PM can lead to increased cancer
and other health risks. PM is a major cause of visibility
impairment (regional haze). PM from diesel combustion is
considered to be a carcinogen
Methane (CH ) Greenhouse gas
4
Carbon dioxide (CO ) Greenhouse gas
2
Acetaldehyde Increased cancer and chronic health risks
Acrolein Increased chronic and acute health risks
Ammonia Increased chronic and acute health risks
Benzene Increased cancer, chronic, and acute health risks
Butadiene (1,3) Increased cancer and chronic health risks
Ethylbenzene Increased chronic health risk
Formaldehyde Increased cancer, chronic, and acute health risks
Polycyclic aromatic Increased cancer risk
hydrocarbons (PAH)
Napthalene Increased cancer and chronic health risks
Propylene oxide Increased cancer, chronic, and acute health risks
Toluene Increased chronic and acute health risks
Xylenes Increased chronic and acute health risks

Source: South Coast Air Quality Management District, Diamond Bar, CA.
TABLE 12-1 CHP Pollutants and Impacts