Module 1: Introduction to Ambient Air Pollution

This module is a general introduction to ambient air pollution. It will consider the history of air pollution, its sources and health impacts as well as describe the classical air pollutants and their characteristics. The module will also discuss the main determinants of air pollution and health impacts, including climate change, and provide an overview on the WHO milestones on air quality and health, such as the global air quality guidelines.

By the end of this module, you will:

• describe what air pollution is, and the classical air pollutants and their characteristics;
• describe the impact of air pollution on the burden of disease including on noncommunicable diseases;
• describe the determinants of air pollution;
• list WHO milestones on air quality and health, including the WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines.