Aerosols and environmental pollutionAerosols and environmental pollution Peer-Reviewed Journal Publication Δημοσίευση σε Περιοδικό με Κριτές 2015-11-112010enThe number of publications on atmospheric aerosols has dramatically increased in recent years. This review, predominantly from a European perspective, summarizes the current state of knowledge of the role played by aerosols in environmental pollution and, in addition, highlights gaps in our current knowledge. Aerosol particles are ubiquitous in the Earth’s atmosphere and are central to many environmental issues; ranging from the Earth’s radiative budget to human health. Aerosol size distribution and chemical composition are crucial parameters that determine their dynamics in the atmosphere. Sources of aerosols are both anthropogenic and natural ranging from vehicular emissions to dust resuspension. Ambient concentrations of aerosols are elevated in urban areas with lower values at rural sites. A comprehensive understanding of aerosol ambient characteristics requires a combination of measurements and modeling tools. Legislation for ambient aerosols has been introduced at national and international levels aiming to protect human health and the environment.http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Naturwissenschaften297117-131 Lazaridis Michalis Λαζαριδης Μιχαλης Ian Colbeck Springer Verlag Air--Pollution--Control Air contaminants Air pollutants Air pollution Air pollution control Air toxics Airborne pollutants Atmosphere--Pollution Contaminants, Air Control of air pollution Pollutants, Air Toxics, Air air pollution air pollution control air contaminants air pollutants air toxics airborne pollutants atmosphere pollution contaminants air control of air pollution pollutants air toxics air