Cooling ponds can release small amounts of gas into the atmosphere, but these emissions are typically not harmful under normal operating conditions. As warm water evaporates from the surface of the pond, water vapor naturally enters the air. This is a normal part of the cooling process and helps carry heat away from the system. In some cases, if organic material like algae or plant matter is present in the pond, decomposition can produce gases such as carbon dioxide or, in rare cases, methane.
These gases may be released in small quantities, especially in stagnant or low-oxygen areas of the pond. However, cooling ponds are not designed to handle or emit industrial gases or pollutants, and their primary function is to manage heat, not chemical byproducts. Proper maintenance, including managing algae growth and water quality, helps limit any unwanted gas formation. Environmental regulations also require monitoring to ensure that any emissions remain within safe limits.
