Air quality in Potsdam: Fine dust levels are alarmingly high!

Air quality in Potsdam: Fine dust levels are alarmingly high!

What is happening in the air over Potsdam? Today, July 16, 2025, important data on air quality from the Brandenburg capital was published. Measuring stations in the center of Potsdam continuously analyze the air and have placed a particular focus on fine dust (PM10). This particle is not only a collective term for the smallest dust particles, but also a serious health risk. Current measurements show that the limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air must not be exceeded more than 35 times per year to ensure that air quality remains safe for the population. According to maz-online.de, fine dust is a crucial factor in assessing the air, alongside nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

Air quality is classified based on specific limit values. There are simple categories from very bad to very good, which are based on the pollutant concentrations. For example, air is classified as “very bad” if nitrogen dioxide levels are above 200 μg/m³, while “poor” starts at 101-200 μg/m³ and “strong” is in the 41-100 μg/m³ zone. With “moderate” health effects cannot be completely ruled out, while with “good” no health disadvantages are to be expected.

Fine dust and health

The health risks posed by poor air quality should not be underestimated. According to the European Environment Agency, there were 239,000 deaths in the EU in 2022 that were directly attributable to fine dust. This dramatically shows how big an environmental problem air pollution really is. Air quality is often impaired, especially in urban areas, which can be dangerous, especially for sensitive people. It is therefore recommended to avoid outdoor activities if the air quality is very poor.

A recent study also found that air pollution is mainly caused by human activities. It is estimated that the New Year's Eve custom alone releases around 1,500 tons of fine dust, which corresponds to 75 percent of the annual fireworks pollution. Even if this does not seem significant at first glance, the pollution adds up over the year and influences overall air quality.

Current measurements and outlook

The hourly air quality measurement data in Brandenburg are published online approximately 20 minutes after they are recorded and are currently to be viewed as preliminary as they have not yet been validated. Luftdaten Brandenburg offers a comprehensive overview of the current measured values, which are updated regularly. It is recommended to always keep an eye on air quality data, especially during critical periods of heavy traffic or during the heating season.

An improvement in air quality is urgently needed. EU-wide targets are to reduce deaths from air pollution by 55 percent by 2030. The new air quality regulations, which are more closely aligned with World Health Organization guidelines, are intended to help further reduce the health effects of air pollution. It's a big step, but there's a long way to go until it's fully implemented.