Air pollution passes first warning threshold in Brussels

Air pollution passes first warning threshold in Brussels
Credit: Belga/Hatim Kaghat

The first phase of Brussels' pollution plan was triggered due to a high concentration of particulate matter in the air, the regional environmental administration Brussels Environment announced on Tuesday.

Over the last 24 hours, the threshold value of 50 µg/m³ for fine dust (PM10) was surpassed. This triggered the 'information and awareness' phase of the region's smog plan, which aims to tackle pollution peaks. At this stage, the general population is being informed about the air quality.

Long-term exposure to polluted air can have significant health consequences including cardiovascular issues, aggravating respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, and in the longer-term can lead to lung cancer. More vulnerable members of society, such as very young children or the elderly are particularly sensitive to air pollution.

According to Brussels Environment, weather conditions on Tuesday have not dispersed the air pollution. This is likely to remain the case on Wednesday.

However, Thursday is likely to bring stronger winds which should help improve the air quality. If the quality does not improve for longer than two days, measures will be taken to encourage alternatives to driving.

Residents can stay informed about air quality by consulting the online 'pollumeter'. Information on the concentration of particulate matter can also be found on the website of the Interregional Environment Agency.

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