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Selected National Air Pollutant Emissions: 1970 to 2005

(In thousands of tons, except as indicated.)

The amount of various pollutants emitted into the air has fallen significantly between 1970 and 2005.

Pollutant 1970 (unless indicated) 2005
PM-10 12,184 2,258
PM-10, misc. 37,736 (1985) 14,479
PM-2.5 2,326 (1990) 1,297
PM-2.5, misc. 5,233 (1990) 1,660
Sulfur dioxide 31,218 14,709
Nitrogen dioxide 26,883 18,878
Volatile organic compounds 34,659 18,925
Carbon monoxide 204,043 106,843
Lead (tons) 220,869 (NA)

(Source)