Air pollutants

Air pollution is a growing problem for Auckland. Pollutants are substances in the air which are present above natural levels and may cause harm to plants and animals. Each year, millions of tonnes of pollutants are released into the air in the form of smoke, dust and invisible gases.

The following pollutants are common and widespread across the Auckland region and are currently being monitored by the ARC:

• Fine particles (PM₁₀ and PM_2.5)
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Sulphur dioxide (SO₂)
• Ozone (O₃)
• Hydrocarbons.