What Is Particulate Pollution? Understanding Its Sources and Dangerous Impacts
Air pollution remains an environmental issue faced by various regions in Indonesia. Among the different types of air pollutants, particulate matter (PM) warrants caution because its size is extremely small and it can be inhaled into the respiratory tract. So, what is particulate pollution, where does it come from, and why can exposure to these particles impact health? The following is an explanation based on educational material released by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
What Is Particulate Pollution?
Referring to the BMKG’s explanation, particulate matter (PM) consists of dust, smoke, and dirt of very small size that floats in the air. Because its size is much smaller than a strand of human hair, particulate matter is often invisible to the naked eye. The BMKG explains that particulate matter comes in various sizes. A human hair has a diameter of about 50 to 70 micrometres. In comparison, PM10 has a size of less than 10 micrometres and PM2.5 is less than 2.5 micrometres, making it far smaller than the diameter of a human hair.
Types of Particulate Matter in the Air
According to the BMKG, there are two types of particulate matter that are commonly a focus of concern: PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 is known as coarse particulate matter. These particles can be inhaled and cause irritation to the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose and throat. Sources include road dust, pollen, and other larger particles. Meanwhile, PM2.5 is a much finer particle. The BMKG identifies PM2.5 as the most dangerous type because its tiny size allows it to penetrate the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
Sources of Particulate Pollution
The BMKG explains that particulate matter can originate from various human activities. The main sources of particulate pollution include motor vehicle exhaust, which produces harmful fine particles, including PM2.5 and PM10; industrial and power plant emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels; dust from construction projects that releases fine particles into the air; and smoke from forest fires and waste burning, which releases large amounts of particulate matter. The higher the concentration of particulate matter in the air, the greater the potential for public exposure to air pollution, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory disorders.
Daily Cycle of Particulate Pollution
The BMKG explains that PM2.5 concentrations are not constant throughout the day. Changes are influenced by human activity and atmospheric conditions. During the night and early morning, PM2.5 concentrations tend to be higher because the atmospheric layer is more stable, causing wind-borne pollutants to descend and gather near the surface. As the day progresses, human activity increases, keeping PM2.5 concentrations high. In the afternoon, warmer atmospheric conditions help lift pollutants to higher layers of the air, causing surface PM2.5 concentrations to tend to decrease compared to morning or daytime levels.