Air quality in FBiH worsening: We are even breathing nitrogen oxide concentrations

Yesterday, air quality was severely compromised at almost all measuring points in the Federation of BiH. Generally, compared to previous days, the concentration values of pollutants are at the same level or gradually increasing, the Federal Hydrometeorological Institute of BiH announced.

At all measuring points (Tuzla, Lukavac, Zenica, Sarajevo, Goražde, and Jajce), the average daily values of PM10 dust (particles with a diameter less than 10 micrometers) were still measured above 50 ug/m3, which is the legally prescribed limit value for assessing air quality. According to available information, the situation in Kakanj and Živinice is similar.

In Tuzla, in addition to the concentrations of suspended particles, the limit values for sulfur dioxide were also exceeded again. In Zenica, all sulfur dioxide analyzers are currently out of order, but based on the meteorological picture and unchanged other conditions compared to previous days, it can be stated that the concentrations of this pollutant are similar to those measured in Tuzla and that there are regular exceedances of daily limit values.

In Sarajevo, in addition to PM10 suspended particle concentrations, the first exceedances of nitrogen oxide concentration limit values were also recorded yesterday.

- Given that we have entered the winter period before the calendar winter, such air quality can be expected as a regular occurrence - the statement reads.

During today, there may be fluctuations in pollutant concentrations as somewhat stronger winds than in previous days are expected, accompanied by occasional light rain. Unfortunately, it cannot be expected that this short-term destabilization will have a significant impact on improving air quality. In the coming days, general meteorological conditions regarding air quality are unfavorable.

Negative health effects from the perspective of air quality increase with the prolongation of such a situation.