Air quality in Leipzig: Alarming values and health risks!

Air quality in Leipzig: Alarming values and health risks!

Leipzig is not only known for its cultural diversity, but also for the challenges in terms of air quality. This becomes particularly clear when we look at the current measurements of the air station in Leipzig-Mitte. This station measures the concentration of fine dust particles in the air that can be health risks, especially if the values exceed certain limit values.

The crucial figures here are the limit values for the different pollutants. For fine dust, i.e. tiny particles that can get into the airways, the critical limit is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air. Exceeding this value is not only a sign of poor air quality, but can also lead to measures to avoid punishments from the EU, because according to the regulations this limit may only be exceeded 35 times in the course of the year.

what the measured values for the air quality say

The measured values include the concentrations of three main pollutants: fine dust, ozone and nitrogen dioxide. The measurements are carried out according to the intervals, whereby nitrogen dioxide and ozone are recorded as an hourly remedy, while fine dust is determined as a gliding daily remedy. When one of these pollutants exceeds its defined limit values, the air quality is classified as "very bad". This happens if, for example, the fine dust concentration is above 100 µg/m³.

The ratings of air quality are divided into different categories: for "bad" air, with values between 51 and 100 µg/m³ for fine dust, 181-240 µg/m³ for ozone and 101-200 µg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide, it is already pointed to possible health impairments. Particularly sensitive people should avoid physical exertion outdoors. With a limit of 35-50 µg/m³ for fine dust, 121-180 µg/m³ for ozone and 41-100 µg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide, the air is rated as "moderate"-short-term negative effects on health are unlikely.

remains an important problem: In the EU, numerous people die prematurely due to the burdens of fine dust. According to current surveys, there are shocking 240,000 deaths annually that are related to this air pollution.

What to do with poor air quality?

The Federal Environment Agency gives clear recommendations for dealing with this problem. With "very bad" air quality that carries health risks, sensitive people should avoid outdoor activities. In poor air, even less sensitive people should be careful and avoid exertion outdoors, since they could also react to air quality.

When classification of air quality as "moderate", however, it becomes a little more relaxed: health effects are unlikely here, but sensitivity to pollutants can increase in the event of long -term exposure. With "good" or "very good" air quality, the residents of Leipzig can easily enjoy their time outdoors without fear of health concerns.

It is therefore important to regularly pursue the current values of air quality. The air measuring stations in Leipzig provide important data that help the citizens make informed decisions, especially when the values increase. Also the best strategy to protect yourself from air pollution is simple: stay inside when the air is bad or enjoy the fresh air if the measured values allow this.

for more information on the current air quality in Leipzig and the respective measured values, See the reporting on www.lvz.de .