Alarming fine dust levels in Brandenburg: Air quality in focus!

Alarming fine dust levels in Brandenburg: Air quality in focus!

The air quality in Germany is currently causing a great stir. As the discussion about fine dust and air pollution intensifies, the latest measurement data is increasingly being brought to the fore. The values ​​from June 26, 2025, which were recorded at a measuring station at the Werner-Seelenbinder sports field in Brandenburg an der Havel, are particularly worrying. The measurements show a fine dust content of 100 µg/m³, which is classified as “very bad”. The limit value of 50 µg/m³ has therefore been significantly exceeded, and the 35 permitted exceedances per year can no longer be adhered to. This is a warning sign for public health, as fine dust can cause or spread serious respiratory diseases.

But what is the general situation in Germany? Loud Federal Environment Agency Fine dust measurements since 2000 have shown that annual average PM10 values ​​in many regions are between 15 and 20 µg/m³, having fallen significantly since the 1990s, when average values ​​were still around 50 µg/m³. Nevertheless, pollution remains high in urban areas. The figures show that traffic, industry and heating systems are the main causes of fine dust emissions.

A comprehensive challenge

The German Environmental Aid (DUH) has also published alarming information. An evaluation of the air quality data for 2023 found that 99 percent of the measuring stations exceed the WHO limit recommendation of 5 µg/m³ for fine dust. The long-standing problem is particularly visible in cities like Munich and Essen. When it comes to nitrogen dioxide levels, almost a third of the stations are even above the health-damaging level of 10 µg/m³. This also has a direct impact on health statistics, as the DUH estimated that compliance with the WHO limits could prevent up to 38,900 premature deaths annually in Germany.

The federal government has not yet responded to this alarming data. The DUH is calling for clearer positions and compliance with WHO recommendations, while Germany currently has plans to abstain from future negotiations on limit values ​​in the EU.

Health protection is required

The health effects of poor air quality should not be underestimated. According to current measurements, it is recommended to avoid physical exertion outdoors for both “very poor” and “poor” values. Sensitive groups of people are also particularly affected and should protect themselves from spending too much time outdoors. Not only fine dust levels play a role here, but also other pollutants in the air, such as nitrogen oxides. These can also lead to health problems and, along with fine dust, are a cause for concern.

In summary, the situation shows that the issue of fine dust and air quality must be given high priority in the political and social discussion. Protecting health should be the top priority and requires measures that can be sensibly communicated both locally and at the federal level. The challenge is to sustainably improve air quality so that the air we breathe is safe again. As a forward-looking society, we can only hope that those responsible will take the necessary steps.