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Last updated
June 24, 2026

Sulphur (sulfur) dioxide (SO2)

Air pollution and sulphur (sulfur) dioxide (SO2) research focuses on this industrial pollutant that has seen significant reductions in many developed countries whilst remaining a major concern in developing regions. Studies demonstrate that SO2 exposure contributes to respiratory disease, cardiovascular problems, and acid rain formation that affects ecosystems. The evidence reveals both the success stories of SO2 reduction through industrial regulation and the ongoing challenges in regions with heavy industrial activity. Discover the research documenting sulphur dioxide health and environmental impacts and what control strategies have proven most effective.

General

  • Sulfur dioxide (SO2) - increased hospital admissions and death from cardiovascular and respiratory causes (Valerie Bougault, 2024)
  • WHO's 2021 guidelines set a 24-hour SO2 limit of 40 µg/m³ (WHO, 2021)
  • The US EPA's Integrated Science Assessment concluded there is a causal relationship between short-term SO2 exposure and respiratory effects (US EPA, Oxides of Sulfur ISA, 2017)