Cadmium & compounds: Sources of emissions
Industry sources
Cadmium is obtained as a by-product from the treatment of zinc, copper, lead, and iron ores, therefore facilities that treat these ores may emit cadmium compounds to the environment (mainly water). Coal and oil burning power plants may emit cadmium compounds to air.
Diffuse sources, and industry sources included in diffuse emissions data
Small industrial domestic use of cadmium products will emit low levels of cadmium to the environment. Tobacco smoke will be an indoor source of cadmium.
Natural sources
Cadmium is a naturally occurring element in the crust of the earth. Coal and other fossil fuels contain cadmium and their combustion releases the element into the atmosphere. Cadmium is found naturally in various ores: lead and copper containing zinc, some iron ores, and in sulfide ore. These can result in emissions to water. Volcanic emissions contain cadmium-enriched particles.
Transport sources
The combustion of motor fuels (petrol) in cars, trucks, and planes result in emissions to air, and particles from tire wear may result in emissions to air, land and water.
Consumer products
Cadmium is found in many domestic products, e.g. tobacco products, phosphate fertilisers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, photocells, petrol, oils, tyres, automobile radiators, some textile dyes and colours, electronic components, heating elements in electric kettles and hot water systems, batteries, and ceramic glazes.
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