PM10 concentrations are higher in Southern and Eastern Europe

Annual mean concentrations of PM10 differ between European countries with, in general, lower concentrations in the Northern European countries and higher levels in some Southern as well as some Eastern European countries, as seen in airbase. However, comparisons between countries are hampered by differences in monitoring strategies and sampling methods.

A recent overview of the population exposure to PM10 measured in cities in various European countries can be found on the ENHIS project website. The data refer to the distribution of the population exposed to various levels, and the weighted mean exposure, taking into account this population distribution. The figures are annual averages for 2004 or the latest available year.

This European Environment and Health Information System (ENHIS) project website hosts comparable data and information on priority environment and health issues, selected on the basis of international frameworks on environment and health. The primary focus of the website is on children, see also the EUphocus Children's Health and the Environment.

In most countries, average exposure levels exceed the WHO limit of 20 ug.m3

The data in the ENHIS website show that the country average PM10 exposure levels varied from 13-14 ug/m3 (Finland, Ireland) to 53-56 ug/m3 (Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia). Other countries with averages below 20 ug/m3 include Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Norway and Sweden. Countries with values over the EU limit value of 40 ug/m3 include, except of the three ones mentioned above, Greece, Italy and Slovenia. The country average levels have not changed substantially over the past few years.

In terms of exposure, this means that almost 90% of people in European cities where PM10 is monitored are exposed to levels exceeding the WHO air quality guideline (AQG) of 20 ug/m3, implying a substantial risk for health. For 14% of the people, the EU limit value of 40 ug/m3 is exceeded.

More information on the occurrence of PM10 in Europe can be found on the European Topic Centre on Air and Climate Change (EIONET) website.