Air pollution comes from many sources including power plants, factories, cars, trucks, volcanoes, and windblown dust. Air pollutants are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of our national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). Poor air quality can negatively affect the health of all people, but it is especially problematic for infants, children, and people with respiratory issues. Air quality also affects vegetation, ecosystems, and contributes to climate change.
Agriculture also affects air quality. Livestock production, fertilizer application, biomass burning, and land use changes are major sources of particulate matter and reduced nitrogen-, sulfur-, and carbon-containing gasses. Livestock production is also a principal source (~18%) of greenhouse gas emissions1. Cropping systems that lead to long-term plant and root production can sequester carbon, countering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, many best management practices (BMPs) can help reduce gaseous emissions.