Air quality deteriorated again in Brussels and Flanders on Thursday night. In Brussels, this triggered the first of four phases of the contingency plan for pollution peaks.
The fine particulate information threshold was once again exceeded in Brussels and Flanders on Friday. The Interregional Environment Agency (IRCEL) expects particulate concentrations to exceed the information threshold for at least 24 hours. This will trigger the information phase.
"The information and awareness threshold of the 'smog plan' in the Brussels-Capital Region has been exceeded," Brussels Environment spokesperson Pascale Hourman said in a statement. "As a result, we are informing the population about air quality. This is the first of four phases of the contingency plan for pollution peaks."
Brussels recorded 42 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) for fine dust (PM2.5) on Friday, surpassing the threshold value of 35 µg/m³. Flanders is currently measuring concentrations of 46 µg/m³.
Breathing in high levels of this pollutant, considered one of the most dangerous to people's health, can increase the risk of health problems such as heart disease and asthma. Vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly and people with lung or heart disease are particularly at risk. IRCEL advises them not to engage in strenuous physical activity.
Steps to reduce pollution
The high concentrations are the result of, among other things, the emission of primary particulate matter and the supply of polluted air from Eastern Europe via eastern air currents. Rising pollution levels are also linked to the cold weather.
"Given the unfavourable meteorological conditions and easterly air currents, air quality will remain poor in the coming days," said Hourman. "However, it is currently still uncertain for how long the fine particulate matter thresholds will be exceeded."
Residents are asked to limit their car use and instead walk, take public transport or cycle as much as possible, and choose to work from home to limit pollution.
"If this situation lasts for more than two days, measures will be taken to encourage alternatives to cars and limit car use, such as free public transport and a free day ticket for the Villo! bicycles. Wood-fired heating will also be prohibited.
