PositiveChemistry WorldIn Clearing the Air , journalist Tim Smedley examines the blight of air pollution and puts forward his vision for how we can tackle the problem on a personal and societal level. He begins by introducing us to common forms of pollution: NOx gases, SO2, ozone and particulate matter being some of the worst offenders. This is followed by a brief but fascinating history of air pollution, stretching back to the first uses of fire by early societies.