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Description
Local heating plants have long been a major source of air pollution not only in the Vysočina Region. In the Vysočina Region, air quality measurements have been carried out in the framework of ISKOV I, ISKOV II and PAUPZKO projects (Tromso Call) for more than 10 years. This project builds on the above-mentioned measurements and aims to complement and refine them, in particular by detailed medium-term measurements of PAHs and aerosol particles (10 months measurements). The number of boilers replaced under boiler subsidies is also taken into account for the selection of sites and subsequent evaluation. The results of the project should also contribute to the evaluation of the effectiveness of the boiler subsidies.
Region Vysočina expects this project to bring unique data on actual air quality and develops a proposal for measures to improve air quality both in the monitored municipalities and in typologically similar municipalities throughout the region.
Summary of project results
Local heating plants have long been the main source of air pollution not only in the Vysočina Region. In the Vysočina Region, air quality measurements have been carried out in the framework of the ISKOV I, ISKOV II and PAUPZKO projects (under the Tromso Call) for more than 10 years. In this project we followed up on the above-mentioned measurements and our aim was to complement and refine them, in particular by detailed medium-term measurements of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and aerosol particles (eight-month measurements). The number of boilers replaced under the socalled boiler subsidies we have also taken into account for the selection of sites and the subsequent evaluation. The results of the project will, among other things, contribute to the evaluation of the effectiveness of the boiler subsidies.On the basis of this project, the Vysočina Region has obtained unique data on air quality, which will help to design measures to improve air quality both in the monitored municipalities and in typologically similar municipalities throughout the region.
The main objective of the project was to measure the impact of local heating plants on air pollution in the municipalities that were selected as the most problematic from long-term measurements and their comparison with background areas. From July 2023 to March 2024, we were carried out measurements at 5 locations in the Vysočina Region. At each location, we continuously monitored (15 July 2023 - 31 March 2024) the concentrations of aerosol particles of PM10 and PM2.5 fractions was carried out using equivalent analysers that comply with ISKO (Air quality information system) requirements for use in the Czech Republic. In addition, we were regularly sampling of aerosol particles for subsequent laboratory determination of concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (hereinafter „PAHs“), defined by European legislation, led by benzo(a)pyrene. We collected forty samples of PAHs at each site for subsequent analysis. From July to September, we collected samples every 12th day. From October to March, we collected samples every 6th day. The PAH sampling days coincided with the CNMI sampling calendar so that we could also compare the measured concentrations with data from the other measuring institutions (mainly the CNMI). In total, we collected and analysed 200 PAH samples.
In the air quality monitoring project, we focused on monitoring PM10 and PM2.5, which brought us key insights into the impact of meteorological conditions and human activities, particularly heating, on air quality. The analysis showed that the annual average concentrations of both types of particulate matter remain below the established immission limits, which is positive news for public health. Maximum concentrations we recorded during evening heating and morning peak hours, indicating the need to control emissions during these key periods. Of particular note is benzo[a]pyrene, whose concentrations exceed the immission limits in some locations in the Highlands, which is associated with intensive heating during the heating season. These findings are important for planning effective measures to reduce emissions, especially in rural areas where solid fuel heating is still widespread. The project also highlighted how much weather affects the dispersion of pollutants. During windless weather, pollutants accumulate, which can lead to localised deterioration of air quality. These findings can help in developing strategies for emergency situations caused by extreme weather conditions. The long-term benefit of the project will be a better understanding of air pollution dynamics, allowing for more targeted and effective regulation to protect public health and the environment. The data from this project provide a valuable basis for policies and actions that could contribute to a more sustainable and healthier environment in the future. The data from the project will also enable the relevant staff of the Regional Authority to update the Air Quality Improvement Plan, with a special emphasis likely to be given to combating benzo(a)pyrene.