"Asphalt is widespread in cities but most air pollution plans ignore its emissions."
"We all know cars and trucks spew pollution into the air—but it turns out what's underneath their tires do as well.
Asphalt—a petroleum product used on roads and roofs—is a significant source of harmful chemicals that end up contributing to ozone and particulate matter pollution, according to a study published today in Science Advances.
The researchers found the emissions from asphalt are highest on hot, sunny days. While producing asphalt is a known source of pollutants such particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds, the asphalt industry has said pollution from applied asphalt is negligible.
The findings are important as most states and cities have tackled combustion sources of air pollution—such as cars and power plants—but have neglected to take asphalt emissions into account. "
Brian Bienkowski reports for Environmental Health News September 3, 2020.
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