Atmospheric pollutants are harmful substances released into the air, primarily through the combustion of fossil fuels. These pollutants can act as greenhouse gases, contribute to climate change, or cause direct harm to human health and the environment. One significant consequence of atmospheric pollutants is the production of acid rain, which damages both natural and man-made environments.

Fossil fuels are a major source of atmospheric pollutants. In 2021 alone, 57 million tons of oil were burned in the UK, releasing large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere. Fossil fuels are burned daily in power stations, homes, and vehicles, contributing to hundreds of millions of tons of pollutants each year.

Incomplete combustion also produces carbon soot, which is emitted as fine particles known as particulate matter. Particulate matter can be inhaled, causing respiratory problems, and it also contributes to environmental pollution by creating clouds that reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of light that reaches the Earth's surface.