Lübeck in the fine dust check: How clean is the air really today?

Lübeck in the fine dust check: How clean is the air really today?

A look at the air quality in Lübeck reveals an exciting picture: The current measurement in Moislinger-Allee shows that fine dust particles (PM10) per cubic meter of air have fluctuated in the last few hours, with values ​​ranging between 12 and 55 particles throughout the day. It should be particularly emphasized that the limit value for PM10 is 50 particles per cubic meter and may not be exceeded more than 35 times per year. How LN Online reported, air quality is measured based on particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

The daily average values ​​are recorded hourly, with hourly averages being used for nitrogen dioxide and ozone. It seems that the current air quality is somewhere between “good” and “poor”. The day started cool and rainy with a high of 13 degrees and rose to 20 degrees in the afternoon with wind speeds of up to 39.6 km/h. At night it cooled noticeably again to 12 degrees, accompanied by a relatively high level of humidity of up to 100% at midday, which influenced the air dynamics. Current weather data can be seen showing that the highest value of fine dust measurements was reached at 8 a.m. at 55 particles per cubic meter, while in the afternoon the value fell to 28. During this time there is a clear trend that the air quality fluctuates and looks better, especially when it is wet and windy.

Health effects and recommendations

But despite all the optimism, the health dimension of air pollution cannot be ignored. According to the EUA Every year in the EU, large numbers of people die as a result of fine dust-related air pollution, especially in urban areas. For example, in 2022, over 239,000 deaths from pollen spikes were documented. If you add ozone and nitrogen dioxide, we get an alarming total number of deaths avoided if the WHO guidelines were followed.

As can be seen from the recommendations, particularly sensitive people should avoid physical exertion outdoors when the air quality is “poor”, which plays a major role in everyday life. Improving air quality has also been stimulated by long-term activities and regulations, which is important to the EU to reduce pollution levels by a remarkable 55% by 2030.

The impact of fireworks on air quality

An interesting aspect that the data also reveals is the influence of New Year's Eve fireworks on fine dust pollution. Around 2,050 tons of fine dust are released every year through fireworks, which, however, plays a minor role compared to the year-round pollution. We usually experience the strongest fluctuations on New Year's Eve, but this short-term impact remains minimal throughout the year. Health often goes unnoticed here, but with more awareness, simple changes could be brought about in society.

Overall, it can be said that air quality measures require a continuous effort to reduce the health and environmental damage of the last decades. Stay informed and act accordingly when air quality is poor - your health will thank you!