Particulate matter (PM2.5)

Sources of PM2.5

Particulate matter (PM) are small particles of solids or liquids that are in the air. The particles are only 2.5 micrometres in diameter. For context, the width of a human hair is 50 to 70 micrometres.

PM2.5 particles may include:

• dust
• soot
• smoke
• drops of liquid

The main sources of particulate matter are from:

• burning of fuel by vehicles, industry and domestic properties
• wear of tyres and brakes
• wind blown soil and dust
• sea spray particles
• burning vegetation

Health effects

Short term health impacts of PM2.5 can include worsening of conditions such as:

• asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Long term health impacts of PM2.5 can include:

• strokes
• lung cancer
• diabetes
• Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
• poor lung health in children