Nitrogen Oxides are a family of poisonous, highly reactive gases. … These gases form when fuel is burned at high temperatures. NOx pollution is emitted by automobiles, trucks and various non-road vehicles (e.g., construction equipment, boats, etc.)

What causes NOx emissions?

NOx is produced from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen gases in the air during combustion, especially at high temperatures. … NOx gases are formed whenever combustion occurs in the presence of nitrogen – e.g. in car engines; they are also produced naturally by lightning.

Are NOx emissions bad?

NOx has direct and indirect effects on human health. It can cause breathing problems, headaches, chronically reduced lung function, eye irritation, loss of appetite and corroded teeth. Indirectly, it can affect humans by damaging the ecosystems they rely on in water and on land—harming animals and plants.