The impact of air pollution on human health
By 2030, the Netherlands aims to reduce the health damage caused by air pollution by 47% to 52% compared to 2016. This target is outlined in a progress report on the Clean Air Agreement (Schone Lucht Akkoord).
In recent years, the Netherlands has made significant progress in reducing air pollution. Air quality continues to improve, but there is still work to be done.
Particulate matter (PM)
Particulate matter consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres. Although particulate matter is also released by natural sources, human activities account for the majority of emissions. Major sources include road traffic, wood burning and agriculture. Particulate matter has a significant impact on human health and is estimated to cause approximately 9,000 deaths in the Netherlands each year.
Particulate matter is divided into three categories:
- PM₁₀: particles smaller than 10 micrometres.
- PM₂.₅: particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres.
- Ultrafine particles: particles smaller than 0.1 micrometres.
These tiny particles are inhaled into the body. Depending on their size, they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Some particles can even enter the bloodstream.
The smaller the particles, the more harmful they can be to human health. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions and lung cancer.
Ozone (O₃)
Ozone is a gas formed through various chemical reactions in the atmosphere. It can also occur naturally through reactions involving sunlight, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides.
Ozone at an altitude of approximately 30 kilometres is essential for life on Earth, as it reduces the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the surface. However, ozone at ground level has harmful effects on human health.
It is a highly reactive gas that damages mucous membranes. Exposure can contribute to cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems and reduced lung function. Ozone can penetrate deep into the lungs, where it causes inflammation.
In addition to its effects on human health, ozone also affects ecosystems and can reduce agricultural and forestry yields.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
Nitrogen dioxide emissions primarily originate from vehicles, power plants and industrial facilities. The gas can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, impairing lung function.
Exposure to NO₂ can contribute to bronchitis, asthma, respiratory infections and reduced lung function. It also plays a role in the formation of particulate matter and ozone.
Nitrogen is essential for plants and natural ecosystems, but excessive amounts create serious environmental problems. When nitrogen concentrations become too high, certain plant species can dominate, leading to monocultures.
Excessive nitrogen pollution therefore threatens not only biodiversity but also human health.
Caeli
Want to ensure that your municipality or province achieves the Clean Air Agreement targets by 2030?
Using satellite data and our proprietary algorithms, Caeli has made it possible to continuously monitor air quality through our Air Quality Monitor. This enables municipalities and provinces to track air quality trends and measure progress towards cleaner air at a regional level.
Curious about how air quality is developing in your region? Get in touch to find out more.