According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of t

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions ?

Locomotives using fossil fuels
Ships using fossil fuels
Extraction of metals from ores
Power plants using fossil fuels
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2024
The correct option is D.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and most environmental agencies globally, the largest source of sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions is the burning of fossil fuels, particularly coal, by power plants and other industrial facilities. Fossil fuels often contain sulphur, which is converted to SO2 when burned. Power plants, due to the large volume of fuel consumed, are the dominant source.
Other sources like locomotives, ships using fossil fuels, and metal extraction processes also contribute to SO2 emissions, but typically to a lesser extent compared to large power generation facilities. SO2 is a major air pollutant contributing to acid rain and respiratory problems.