Air quality alarm in Rostock: Fine dust levels exceed limit values!

Air quality alarm in Rostock: Fine dust levels exceed limit values!

What is the air quality in our area? On July 17, 2025, the current measured values ​​were published at the measuring station at Holbein-Platz in Rostock, which provide information about the pollution from fine dust (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3). These three values ​​are crucial for assessing air quality and identifying possible health risks. The data shows that the PM10 limit of 50 particles per cubic meter cannot be exceeded more than 35 times a year, posing a significant challenge in highly urbanized areas. According to Ostsee-Zeitung, the health consequences of poor air quality can be serious, with the EU suffering around 240,000 premature deaths recorded due to particulate matter.

Overall, the state of air quality is assessed based on the three pollutants mentioned. The limit values ​​are defined as follows:

• „Sehr schlecht“:
  – Stickstoffdioxid: >200 μg/m³
  – Feinstaub: >100 μg/m³
  – Ozon: >240 μg/m³
• „Schlecht“:
  – Stickstoffdioxid: 101-200 μg/m³
  – Feinstaub: 51-100 μg/m³
  – Ozon: 181-240 μg/m³
• „Mäßig“:
  – Stickstoffdioxid: 41-100 μg/m³
  – Feinstaub: 35-50 μg/m³
  – Ozon: 121-180 μg/m³

The health effects

The impact of air pollution on health cannot be underestimated. Studies show that long-term exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone can lead to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. According to the Federal Environment Agency, PM10 pollution has declined in Germany in recent years. The average annual values ​​are now between 15 and 20 μg/m³, a pleasing decrease compared to 50 μg/m³ in the 1990s.

Concentrations have risen sharply in the past, particularly in metropolitan areas, while they are lower in rural areas. An interesting point: In 2006, the specified limit values ​​were significantly exceeded. But the situation has stabilized since 2012 and in 2023 the limit values ​​were met at all measuring stations.

Measures and recommendations

So what can you do to protect yourself from bad air? The recommendations are clear. If the air quality is “very poor,” sensitive people should avoid outdoor activities. In the “bad” range, it is advisable to reduce physical activity. Fortunately, “good” and “very good” air quality shows that no health effects are to be expected, which creates the best conditions for outdoor activities.

Another aspect that should not be ignored are the emissions caused by New Year's Eve fireworks. Every year around 1,500 tons of fine dust are released on New Year's Eve, which accounts for 75% of the total annual fireworks pollution. These particles are harmful to health and consist of tiny, invisible dust particles that can enter the respiratory tract.

In conclusion, air quality is an important issue that affects us all. Through continuous measurements and adjustments in air pollution control - at least on the part of the EUA - the aim is to significantly reduce health risks in the EU. With the goal of reducing air pollution-related deaths by 55% by 2030, there are exciting developments ahead. So let’s stay vigilant and healthy!