Air Quality Deterioration Forecasted Across Europe

Air quality across several European countries, including Ireland, is expected to decline in the coming days, according to the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). The deterioration is primarily driven by an increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution.

What is PM2.5 and Why is it Harmful?

PM2.5 particles are incredibly small – approximately one-thirtieth the width of a human hair. Their diminutive size allows them to bypass the body’s natural defenses and penetrate deep into the lungs, even entering the bloodstream. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke .

Causes of the Deterioration

The current increase in PM2.5 levels is linked to several factors. A key contributor is increased ammonia emissions resulting from the widespread application of agricultural fertilizers during stable weather conditions. This chemical process is intensified when mornings are cool and temperatures rise throughout the day – a common springtime pattern. Rising concentrations of tree pollen from birch and alder trees are playing a role.

Affected Regions

CAMS forecasts that Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, and Ireland will experience reduced air quality due to these conditions. Background pollution from fossil fuel combustion, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, continues to contribute to regional air quality issues .

CAMS Director’s Statement

Laurence Rouil, Director of CAMS, stated, “Forecasts show that ground level fine particulate concentrations are likely to increase over the coming days. Agricultural ammonia emissions combined with nitrogen oxide emissions from other sectors like road transport, are expected to be a major contributor to PM2.5 formation, causing increased concentrations of fine particles in the atmosphere of the affected areas. Whilst this situation is not unusual in spring, it is notable and can be intensified by stable and mild meteorological conditions and atmospheric inversions.”

About Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS)

The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS), implemented by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) on behalf of the European Union, provides consistent and quality-controlled information on air quality, solar energy, greenhouse gases, and climate forcing . CAMS builds upon years of research and development funded by the EU . It monitors crucial atmospheric components, including greenhouse gases and aerosols, to support policymakers and citizens with enhanced environmental information .