Photochemical Smog
Acid Rain
Global Warming

ATMOSPHERIC ISSUES

Introduction

Human-produced climate change is now past scientific discussion, with confirmation given that the amount of greenhouse gases produced by humans has increased global warming in the last 50 years. Despite international efforts to reduce the amount of C0₂ released into the atmosphere 7 gigatons per year are still released. Climate models indicate that by the end of the 21st century, we can expect to have an increase in surface temperature of between 1.5 degrees Celcius and 6 degrees Celcius. This is on top of the 0.5 degree Celcius that we have already exerted upon the earth.

Theses changes will significantly change the functioning of life on earth. They will produce a drastic impact on the marine environment, affecting the continuation of life for certain species. for example cetaceans.
The biggest things that climate change will affect are:

Ocean Currents and windpatterns

Sea surface and temperature

Death to certain species of plant and animal life

Ozone Depletion

Measurements of ozone began in 1931, and studies since then have shown that the ozone content in the atmosphere have significantly decreased in recent years. In 1974 scientists reached the conclusion that Chloroflourocarbons (C.F.C's) are the biggest source of ozone depletion. The CFC's are found mainly in Aerosol Cans, certain airconditioning systems, plastic foams, but the biggest source of CFC's are vehicles.
A CFC molecule can be around for about 40-150 years (a long time to do a lot of Environmental damage). They get broken down in the upper atmosphere when the molecules come into contact with direct ultra-violet rays from the sun. They release the chlorine into the air, and the chlorine reacts with the ozone particles breaking them down into their basic compunds (ie: three separate oxygen particles)

The most problematic aspect of this is the hole in the ozone above Antarctic continent. The hole appears in September and then disappears in October. The ozone in this area only replenishes itself when ozone from other parts of the world flow over and add ozone.

Ultraviolet light and Skin Cancer

A reduction in ozone around the globe means that more ultraviolet rays will reach the earth. Exposure to ultraviolet rays results in prematurely aged skin, and skin cancer from a weakened immune system. The most lethal form of skin cancer is melanoma. It is almost always fatal if it spreads to other parts of the body.

Possible Solutions to the Ozone Crisis

Concern over the result of CFC'S has led to the banning of these compounds as aerosol propellants and as coolants in air-conditioning systems. This was put into place under the Montreal protocol of 1987. Nations agreeing to the protocol agreed to decrease their CFC emissions by 50% of the 1986 rates (deat, 1998) This was a good idea in the right direction, but unfortunately, studies say that a reduction of 85% is needed to stabilize the chemicals in the atmosphere.

These are only a few of the problems that we face in South Africa and around the world. There are many more.

Click below to read more on the various kinds of atmospheric problems we face.

**Some areas of Environmental Concern**
Causes of the pollution	Major Sources	Effects
Small particles made up of tiny airborne particles of dust/residue spread by wind and erosion	Building sites vehicles of transport processes in power plants eg: coal burning steel makers, cement-makers petroleum refineries, tar manufactures	The smaller the particles, the more dangerous they are because they can penetrate deeper into the lungs when breathed. They affect the breathing and respiratory systems, Damage lungs, cause Asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and allow cancers to develop. Vision decreases
Sulphur Dioxide A gas comming from the burning of coal & oil (Which contain sulphur)	Industry processes involving heat, and electric power-generating stations Sulphuric acid plants	Reduces visibility Acid rain literally kills lakes and rivers, decreases crop production and damages buildings Causes asthma attacks even when resting Ground level ozone
Nitrogen Oxides & Ground level Ozone Ozone at this level is harmful, whilst ozone in the upper atmosphere protects the earth from the ultra violet radiation, breathing it is not healthy.	Ozone is created when nitrogen oxide, nitrogen dioxide, "volatile organic compounds" (VOC's) and sunlight all interact in the atmosphere. Nitrogen oxide is created by burning the fossil fuels in vehicle engines and other combustion sources The burning of fossil fuels emits VOC's The highest ozone levels occur when sunlight and warmth are abundant.	Acid Rain Smog, which irritates lungs, is a cause of pneumonia and bronchitis and also decreases resistance to lung infections Ozone burns holes through the lung's cell walls Adults breath 10 times more air and than children and therefore breath in more polution Nose and eye problems Is a cause of asthma problems Clothing fades and loses strength Metal surfaces corrode
Carbon Dioxide	All kinds and forms of Combustion	Global warming which affects climate and ecosystems
Carbon Monoxide A colourless & odourless gas released into the atmosphere when fuel containing carbon is not completely burned.	Motor vehicle exhaust Incinerators Industrial processes (e.g: Industrial boilers)	Ozone "clouds" result from high concentrations and visibly surrounds a city Ingested as poison when inhaled Deprives body tissues of oxygen when in bloodstream Decreases visual perceptions Inhibits learning ability and motor skills Execessive levels in bloodstream can be fatal.

**Links:**
The Kyoto Protocol	GreenPeace Website

Photochemical Smog Acid Rain Global Warming