This morning's paper contains an article about increased use of wood for heat in Maine. The article raises the concern of increased air pollution - presumably particulate matter although it does not state this. A second article says traffic on the Maine Turnpike is down about 4% from last year. This got me to wondering. If we have a 4% decline in traffic and a 4% increase in wood burning, what is the net effect on air pollution?
Pollution Calculation
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Among other things, it depends on whether people are using old smoke dragons or efficient stoves. Clearly, though, there should be data for what is typical.
If there is a lot of traffic in that area and not much wood burning, then a 4% increase in traffic is probably going to yield more pollution simply because you are starting with many more tons. Also, wood tends to be burned seasonally.
Air pollution is an extrememly broad term as well. Hundreds of different compounds can be released depending on what is actully burned.
If there is a lot of traffic in that area and not much wood burning, then a 4% increase in traffic is probably going to yield more pollution simply because you are starting with many more tons. Also, wood tends to be burned seasonally.
Air pollution is an extrememly broad term as well. Hundreds of different compounds can be released depending on what is actully burned.
Yep, its funny that one of the very basic elements that supports plant life (co2) is now considered pollution.
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