Carbon Dioxide and Sulfur Dioxide Emission Consequences

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) are significant by-products of many industrial processes, most notably the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas.
CO2 is one of the major greenhouse gases. Its accumulation in the earth’s atmosphere traps heat and contributes to global warming. This leads to climate change impacts such as rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, more severe weather events (storms, floods, droughts), and shifts in wildlife habitats and agricultural zones.
Another consequence of increased CO2 is ocean acidification. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which decreases the pH of the ocean. This poses a threat to marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells such as corals and shellfish.
SO2 is a major contributor to acid rain. When it reacts with water in the atmosphere, it forms sulfuric acid, which can then fall to the ground as rain. Acid rain is harmful to the environment - it can damage soil and water ecosystems by altering their pH, harming wildlife, and damaging forests and other vegetation.
Acid rain also impacts human-made structures. Acidic water erodes building materials, particularly those made of limestone and marble. This results in damage to buildings, sculptures, monuments, and other infrastructures.
The inhalation of SO2 can cause respiratory problems in humans. High levels of sulphur dioxide can result in throat and eye irritation, shortness of breath, and increased risk of heart diseases.
The reduction of CO2 and SO2 emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change, preserving ecosystems, and maintaining human health. Strategies can include the use of renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage technologies, and transitioning to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Chemical processes are employed to remove SO2 from industrial exhaust gases before they are emitted into the atmosphere. One such process is known as flue-gas desulfurization, where an alkaline sorbent (usually limestone or lime) reacts with the SO2 to form a harmless salt.