Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide is a colorless, corrosive gas produced by burning fuels containing sulfur like coal and oil, and by industrial processes such as smelters, paper mills, power plants and steel manufacturing plants.

What are the impacts of sulfur dioxide?

Sulfur dioxide is associated with a variety of respiratory diseases. Inhalation of sulfur dioxide can cause increased airway resistance by constricting lung passages.

How are sulfur dioxide (SO₂) levels in the Puget Sound region?

Our sulfur dioxide levels are well below federal standards. Over the past decade our area has experienced a significant decrease in SO₂ from sources such as pulp mills, cement plants, and smelters. Additionally, levels of sulfur in diesel and gasoline fuels are decreasing due to federal regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency. The Department of Ecology currently monitors SO₂.

For more on sulfur dioxide:

• 2005 Air Quality Data Summary (PDF 1.8MB)