Alarming fine dust levels: What is the state of Lübeck's air quality?

Alarming fine dust levels: What is the state of Lübeck's air quality?

Lübeck.The discussion about air quality in Lübeck has come into focus again due to the measuring station on Moislinger-Allee. This station provides information about the concentration of fine dust (PM10) in the air. The critical limit is 50 particles per cubic meter, meaning exceeding it more than 35 times a year could lead to action against possible EU penalties.

Current air quality is a significant issue not only for the health of city residents, but also for the environment as a whole. Three central values ​​are recorded: fine dust, nitrogen dioxide and ozone. These values ​​determine the classification of air quality. The impulsive evaluation is carried out in categories such as “very bad”, “bad”, “moderate”, “good” and “very good”. The pollutant levels that influence these classifications vary in different areas: air that exceeds 200 μg/m³ nitrogen dioxide or 240 μg/m³ ozone is considered “very bad”.

Health risks from poor air quality

The Federal Environment Agency warns that “very bad” air can pose health risks, especially for people with sensitive respiratory tracts. They should avoid physical activities outdoors. If the air quality is “poor”, even healthy people could show symptoms, which means that physical exertion outdoors is also not recommended.

In a “moderate” air condition, the consequences for the general public are usually limited to a short period of time. However, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and particulate matter, in combination with other pollutants, can also pose long-term health risks, especially for particularly sensitive groups such as asthmatics. With “good” air, there are no health concerns, while with “very good” air, citizens are encouraged to enjoy their time outdoors.

In addition to this information, the sources of fine dust pollution are also discussed, such as the annual New Year's Eve fireworks display. While this event accounts for only a minimal portion of annual fine dust emissions, there is a significant increase in levels on New Year's Eve. According to the Federal Environment Agency, this amounts to around 1,500 tons of fine dust, which accounts for 75 percent of the annual pollution during this period.

Measuring station in Lübeck: values ​​and forecasts

The Lübeck measuring station is crucial for monitoring air quality. By measuring nitrogen dioxide and ozone on an hourly basis as well as daily average values ​​for particulate matter, the authorities receive valuable data on air pollution. These not only help with monitoring, but also with informing citizens about potential risks and necessary precautions.

What remains particularly alarming is that across the EU, it is estimated that around 240,000 premature deaths are caused by exposure to particulate matter each year. This makes it clear that the fight against poor air quality remains urgent, despite massive improvements. The responsibility lies with both authorities and citizens, who should actively educate themselves about air quality and take appropriate measures to reduce their personal emissions in order to improve air quality in the long term.

For a detailed discussion about the current air quality in Lübeck and monitoring methods, see the source www.ln-online.de available for inspection at any time.