Air Pollution

Definition

Contamination of atmosphere caused by accidental or intentional release of harmful chemicals into the air causing severe respiratory problems for which definitive medical care must be instituted.

Background

With the abundant use of refrigerants, aerosol can propellants, gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles and the continuous discharge of dioxins and other carcinogenic emissions, our atmosphere is quickly becoming a concentrated hazard.

The concentration of pollutants is slowly destroying the ozone shield that prevents the ultraviolet solar radiation from reaching the earth's surface as well as turning the precipitation into acid to pollute our water and soil.

The pollutants are capable of causing cancer, deteriorating certain building materials, inflicting serious respiratory difficulties and genetically damaging the unborn.

Maine, along with the remainder of the nation is just as vulnerable to the effects of hazardous emissions into the atmosphere.

History

Although Poland has not experienced the severe toxic effects of pollutants as have the larger cities of this nation, the Poland area has been affected by high levels of Carbon Monoxide and other such chemicals. Acid rain is now having a serious impact over the entire State of Maine.

Time of Year

Pollution incidents can occur at any time during the year but its effects will be more severe in the warm summer months where high humidity will hold the pollutants close to the ground.

Speed of Onset

Unless an industrial or transportation accident causes the spontaneous release of hazardous chemicals into the air, pollution problems develop gradually.

Duration of Event

Contamination of air from an industrial or transportation accident is rapidly cleared.

Chronic pollution will last as long as man continues to emit these hazardous chemicals into what we all take for granted.

Area of Impact

An industrial or transportation accident will have a local impact.

Chronic pollution has a diffused effect.