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Sulphur di-oxide also pollutes rain which kills the bacteria in the soil and thus prevents the
plant obtaining its normal food supplies. A concentration of less than three parts in 10,000,000
would injure vegetation. Smoke in the atmosphere also reduces the ultra violet light and daylight
to the detriment of vegetation. Damage to vegetation by atmospheric pollution directly
affects the food supplies of the whole nation.
(c) On Metalwork
The rate of corrosion of metals is three times as rapid in densely populated areas as in
country districts. This applies to both ferrous and non-ferrous metals and is due to the very
highly corrosive action of SO2 in the presence of moisture and particles from the atmosphere.
If atmospheric particles are removed the corrosive effect of the SO2 and moisture together is
negligible.
(d) On Stonework
Most building materials are attacked by atmospheric pollution and all are rendered dingy by
smoke. Some forms of stone and brick are very susceptible to the action of smoke and its acid
components and rapidly disintegrate. The repairs to Westminster Abbey of damage largely the
result of atmospheric pollution recently cost £¾ million.
(e) Other Materials
Wool, cotton and leather goods are rapidly rotted in a polluted atmospher. Damage to
textiles, e.g. curtains, clothes, etc. affects every household in a polluted atmosphere.
In addition the washing of household linen is rendered more difficult in industrial towns
than in the rural areas, requiring more expenditure on soap, a longer time for the task and
subjecting the garments etc. to more wear and tear in the process of cleansing.
The effects on leather can seriously damage leather bound books in libraries in smoky
areas.
(f) On Paintwork
In smoky towns external paintwork on buildings requires renewal more frequently, often on
alternate years. Expenditure on painting and cleaning buildings in smoky towns may be 40%
more than in clean towns.
(g) On Aircraft
The presence of smoke in the atmosphere seriously reduces visibility for aircraft flying in
the vicinity of towns and adds to the difficulties of aircraft using airports in the vicinity of
industrial areas through the marked reduction of visibility caused by smoke in the atmosphere.
(h) Wastage of Fuel
It has been estimated that the combustible material, both visible and invisible, which accompanies
smoke is worth £26,000,000 per annum.
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