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Recent studies indicate that air quality across Europe has seen a noticeable improvement over the last twenty years. However, despite these improvements, a considerable segment of the European populace lives in areas where pollution levels exceed the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Conducted by researchers at the Institute for Global Health in Barcelona (ISGlobal), a recent study delved into the daily pollution levels across more than 1,400 areas spanning 35 European nations, collectively hosting approximately 543 million individuals. The investigation, spanning from 2003 to 2019, unveiled a decline in the the total levels of suspended particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) as well as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) throughout the majority of European regions throughout the past twenty years.

Air quality in Europe has experienced notable improvements, particularly regarding the levels of pollution from pollution caused by coarse particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), where the largest declines have been observed.

Air pollution still above WHO standards

According to the researchers’ report, despite advancements in air quality, numerous citizens still experience the negative effects of air pollution that exceed the recommended standards of the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the study, 98% of Europeans continue to live in areas with unfavorable levels of PM2.5. Each year, over tiny particles in the air closely associated with cardiovascular disease , strokes, and diabetes, is linked to approximately 250,000 premature deaths in the European Union each year.

Although the number of deaths caused by PM2.5 fell by 41% from 2005 to 2021, the European Environment Agency encourages member states to continue efforts to further reduce pollution. About 80% of Europeans reside in regions with elevated levels of PM10, and approximately 86% experience high levels of NO2.

Ozone concentrations in southern Europe increased by 0.58%, in other regions of the continent they either remained the same or even decreased. Researcher Zhao-Yue Chen from ISGlobal notes that targeted action is required to address PM2.5 and ozone, especially in light of the increasing risks posed by climate change in Europe.

Study reveals: where are the most polluted areas in Europe?

Air pollution levels have indeed seen a decrease over the past two decades, certain hotspots persist across the continent. The most significant concentrations of particulate matter pollution (PM2.5 and PM10) are notably found in Northern Italy and Eastern Europe. Moreover, Northern Italy and specific regions of Western Europe, such as southern UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands, continue to experience elevated levels of pollution exhibit elevated levels of NO2

The largest decreases in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were recorded in central Europe, while NO2 decreased predominantly in metropolitan regions in Western Europe.

A vicious circle: the correlation between climate change and air pollution

Researchers suggest a delicate balance exists between climate change and atmospheric pollution. Elevated temperatures and strong solar radiation play a role in generating ozone through chemical processes. The rise in ozone levels subsequently speeds up the creation of fresh PM2.5 particles. Climate change also heightens the likelihood of wildfires, which further elevate PM2.5 and ozone levels in the air.

“This intricate interaction establishes a hazardous loop, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing the dual challenges posed by climate change and air pollution.  concurrently,” remarked Joanne Ballester Claramunt, a research fellow at ISGlobal and the primary author of the study.

Last year, a remote oil well in Kazakhstan experienced one of the most significant methane emissions ever documented . These conclusions were made by the authors of the study, which had access to the verification department of BBC Verify. According to preliminary estimates, about 127 thousand tons of gas were released from the well. This incident caused a fire that lasted for more than six months.

Methane leak: Buzachi Oil company denies significant volume

Methane surpasses carbon dioxide as a potent greenhouse gas, as acknowledged by Buzachi Oil. which owns the well, and denies that a “significant volume”  amount of methane is released. As per the Greenhouse Gas Equivalency Calculator of the US Environmental Protection Agency, the ecological consequences of such a leakage equate to driving over 717,000 gasoline-fueled cars for a year. Manfredi Caltagirone, the director of the UN International Methane Observatory, expressed surprise at the scale and duration of the leak, calling it extremely significant.

Kazakhstan: devastating methane leak and controversy over causes

The leak of an exploded well in the Mangistau region of Kazakhstan, which began on June 9, 2023, continued until the end of the year, causing a fire that was only extinguished by Christmas. Local officials informed the BBC that efforts are presently in progress to seal the well with cement.

Methane, the primary element of natural gas, remains imperceptible to human vision. Yet, when sunlight penetrates a methane cloud, it creates a characteristic trail that can be detected by some satellites. The methane leak was first discovered by the French geoanalytical company Kayrros. The Dutch Space Research Institute and the Polytechnic University of Valencia Confirmed the results of the analysis.

Scientists examined satellite information and detected 115 cases of high methane concentrations between June and December last year. Based on this data, they concluded that a single well leaked 127,000 tons of methane, potentially marking the second-largest methane release ever recorded.

A scientist from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, Luis Guanter, believes that only sabotage on the Nord Stream could have caused such a powerful leak. Underwater explosions that destroyed pipelines in September 2022 led to the release of up to 230 thousand tons of methane.

As per the International Energy Agency, 30% of the increase in worldwide temperatures is due to methane emissions. Scientists assertion that a vast quantity of methane was released from this well, confirming this with the help of data from five distinct satellite devices. The Mangistau Ecology Department Verified that the methane levels in the atmosphere surpassed permissible standards in 10 cases from June to September. According to the statement, a few hours after the leak began, the level of methane in the air exceeded the permissible level by 50 times.

Kazakh company Buzachi Oil denies that there was a large release of methane from the well, arguing that there was only a “minor” amount of gas and any methane would have burned off when it came out of the well. They believe that only water vapor entered the air , producing significant white plumes visible from space. Deputy Director of the company, Daniyar Duisembayev, emphasized a responsible approach to the situation. However, research commissioned by the company and unavailable to the BBC may challenge Kayrros’ findings. Scientists involved in the Kayrros study reject these arguments, pointing out that their measurements were based on specific traces of methane, unaffected by water vapor or smoke.

Kazakhstan joins international efforts to reduce emissions

An official investigation into the accident in Kazakhstan showed that the Buzachi Oil company did not control the well drilling process, and the subcontractor Zaman Energo made many mistakes. The Energy Department said cleaning up the methane leak is challenging. Kazakhstan, like Turkmenistan, has experienced large methane leaks, but the incident in the Mangystau region stands out as the largest. Experts warn of the risk of new leaks with further gas production, andKazakhstan has participated in the Global Methane Pledge, a voluntary commitment involving over 150 nations aiming to decrease methane emissions by 30% before 2030.

The northern island nation, near the town of Grindavik, experienced its third volcanic eruption in the past month. According to preliminary estimates, the length of the crack was about three kilometers.

The event took place on February 8 in southwest Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, as confirmed by Icelandic authorities. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), a significant yet minor earthquake commenced northeast of Silingarfell, a peak in southwest Iceland, at 5:30 am. Roughly 30 minutes later, an eruption ensued in the identical vicinity. Images and footage released by local media depicted lava streaming from the fissure, illuminating the trajectory of smoke ascending into the nocturnal atmosphere.

The IMO also noted that the fissure formed in close proximity to previous eruptions in the same area. According to preliminary estimates, the length of the crack was about three kilometers, which indicates significant destruction of the earth’s surface and the activity of the volcanic process. This third eruption in as many weeks is a reminder of the risks associated with geological events in the region.(the first is December 18, 2023, and the second is January 14, 2024).

Recent events have caused alarm among the local population and led to the evacuation of the town of Grindavik due to the danger of an eruption. Geologists and volcanologists continue to monitor the situation, assessing the risks and preparedness for the possible consequences of a new eruption. These events also highlight the importance of further research into seismic and volcanic activity to ensure the safety and protection of life and property in the region. Volcanic eruptions are an integral part of the geological process and are a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and risk management.

Iceland: Third eruption in weeks highlights its geological activity

With the region’s third volcanic eruption in as many weeks, it’s worth paying attention to the geological activity of Iceland, which is known for its volcanic processes. There are more than 30 active volcanoes in the country. Tracking and monitoring volcanic activity plays a key role in preventing disasters and minimizing risks to communities and property.

The evacuation of the town of Grindavik became a necessary precautionary measure in light of the threat of an eruption, highlighting the readiness and ability of local authorities to quickly respond to emergencies. This also caused concern among the population and attracted the attention of the world community to the situation in the region.

Six eruptions in two years

Over the past two years, there has been a sixth occurrence of volcanic activity in Iceland. The town of Grindavik lies situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, in the southwest of the country and has a population of about 4,000 people, mainly engaged in fishing. Until March 2021, for eight centuries, the peninsula remained untouched by volcanic eruptions. Iceland boasts over 30 active volcanic complexes, marking the region as the most volcanically active in Europe. Positioned along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, an underwater mountain range dividing the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, Iceland showcases its geological dynamism. Following eruptions in August 2022 and in July and December 2023, experts in volcanology ponder whether this heralds the onset of a fresh phase of seismic events in the area.

Europe, like the whole world, faces serious environmental challenges and climate change. In recent years, an increase in the release of gases that have a greenhouse effect and which adversely affect the atmosphere and climate of the region has been considered. These record emissions have the potential to have a significant impact on the ecosystem and lives of people in Europe.

The main sources of record emissions in Europe are industry, energy, transport and agriculture. Emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are the main components contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Along with these gases, emissions of aerosols and other pollutants also have an impact on air quality and atmospheric phenomena.

Air pollution and record emissions: implications for Europe

One of the main challenges associated with record emissions is global warming. Increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere cause global climate change, which leads to an increase in the temperature of the planet, which in turn causes changes in the weather and climate of Europe. This could lead to more frequent and intense weather events such as heat waves, rainstorms, floods and droughts. All of this has serious impacts on agriculture, ecosystems and society as a whole.

Another serious consequence of record emissions is air pollution. Excessive levels of harmful substances in the atmosphere can cause poor air quality, which can have potentially adverse effects on human and animal health. Respiratory illnesses, allergies and other illnesses may become more common due to air pollution.

However, Europe does not remain inactive in the face of these challenges. The countries of the European Union and other countries in the region are undertaking various programs to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and improve atmospheric quality. One of the key steps is the transition to more environmentally friendly energy sources, such as wind and solar power, as well as improving energy efficiency.

In addition, European countries are actively developing and implementing measures to reduce emissions in the transport and agricultural sectors. This includes encouraging the use of public transport, the development of electric and hybrid vehicles, and the adoption of agricultural practices that reduce emissions.

In addition, cooperation between countries and scientific organizations in the field of climate and ecology is of significant importance in resolving this situation. Sharing knowledge and experience allows us to develop more effective methods for reducing emissions and adapting to climate change.

Record emissions and their impact on the atmosphere in Europe are a major challenge, but with concerted efforts and concentrated action their negative impact can be reduced.

Maintaining sustainable and environmentally friendly energy approaches and sources represents an important step towards a healthier and more sustainable future for the region and the planet.

Greenhouse effect

The greenhouse effect is like a “ticking time bomb” in causing climate change. It is caused by rising levels of greenhouse gases such as CO2 and methane in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun’s rays and create a similar greenhouse gas effect. As a result, the average temperature on Earth is gradually rising, which can have a catastrophic effect on the climate.

To reduce the impact of greenhouse gases and reduce their negative consequences, it is necessary to increase measures to reduce emissions of these gases, transition to the use of alternative energy sources and increase the efficiency of resource use.

Combating this ticking time bomb is becoming increasingly urgent to ensure climate sustainability and the future of our planet.

Polluted atmosphere in Europe: Differences between East and West

A study conducted by American scientists found that teenagers who inhale particulate matter are at risk of heart rhythm problems. Residents of more polluted areas feel a particularly high risk.

At the global level, South Asia faces the greatest air pollution problems. Countries like Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan are on the list of the most polluted regions.

Bangladesh would have lost the opportunity to live an additional 6.8 years if pollution levels were up to standard. In this country, the level of particulate matter (PM2.5) is 74 micrograms per cubic meter.

The capital city with the highest level of air pollution is Delhi, India. The average PM2.5 level here is 126.5. Delhi has been ranked among the most polluted cities for several years in a row.

On the other hand, China has made significant improvements in the fight against air pollution. Since 2013, air pollution levels have decreased by 42%, resulting in an increase in the average life expectancy of Chinese citizens by 2.2 years. Compared to the results of the 2021 report, the country improved its indicators by 13 percentage points, which led to an increase in life expectancy by almost 1 year.

In Europe and North America, air pollution levels are improving at about the same rate. However, there are significant differences between Western and Eastern Europe. Bosnia is considered one of the most polluted countries on the continent.