Volatile organic hydrocarbons, which are released to the atmosphere by plants (biogenic ⁠VOC⁠, BVOC), have large influence on atmospheric chemistry and thus air quality. They are beside nitrogen oxides and anthropogenic VOC eminent precursors for tropospheric ozone and may also foster the creation of aerosols. This literature review summarizes the current knowledge about functions, drivers and impacts of BVOC and analyses which environmental factors influence their formation.