Heat waves and ozone concentration
04/08/2020 The National Observatory in Uccle, Brussels detected a new historical heat record when the temperature reached 36.5°C on 31st of July 2020. This historical heat record is not only a reason to seek refreshment at our Belgian coast but also a perfect moment to think about air quality and climate change. Intensive sun activity can cause an enormous generation of ozone gas at the lowest layer of the atmosphere. This is the result of reactions between sunlight and pollutants (Volatile Organic Compounds, Nitrogen Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Methane) present in the lowest layer of the atmosphere.
For instance, ozone concentration exceeded the European Union limit of 180 µg/m3 in 2 regions of Belgium (Flanders and Limburg) on the 31st of July. The gas concentration profile is shown in the Figure below.
source: Vlaamse Milieumaatschappij (Irceline.be)
The Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) has issued a forecast of another heatwave starting from Wednesday this week (05/08/2020) that can lead to elevated concentrations of Ozone.
Potential risks associated with exposure to high Ozone concentrations include:
- Make it more difficult to breathe deeply and vigorously.
- Cause shortness of breath and pain when taking a deep breath.
- Cause coughing and sore or scratchy throat.
- Aggravate lung diseases, such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
- Make the lungs more susceptible to infection (COVID – 19).
- Continue to damage the lungs even when the symptoms have disappeared.
- Cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Here are a few tips and recommendations to minimise risks of health problems caused by high temperatures and Ozone concentration:
- Stay hydrated, drink more water than usual.
- Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, and sugared drinks.
- Limit physical activities outdoors during the maximum solar activity period.
- Do not open windows during the day, ventilate premises after 21:00.
- Minimise usage of private transportation. Emissions from cars can increase Ozone generation volumes
Airscan helps public and private organisations to monitor and control both indoors and outdoors ozone levels to ensure the best living and working environments!
Learned something? Feel free to share.
Air Quality Features in the New LEED V5 Release
The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification system, known for setting the global standard in green building design, has introduced significant updates in its latest version, LEED V5. A key focus of this release is the enhancement of air quality criteria, reflecting the growing importance of indoor and outdoor air quality in sustainable building practices. Airscan team prepared a summary of the key updates came in action with the most recent LEED protocol.
Our air quality sensors that are placed near the busiest areas in Brussels, detected concentrations well above the European thresholds in the city and around, so your workout may be more affected by the air quality than you would think.
14 days of poor air quality in Brussels
If you have been outside in the last few weeks, you probably have felt the icy temperatures and cold winter weather, which also affects our health due to higher pollution in our cities.
Our air quality sensors that are placed near the busiest areas in Brussels, detected concentrations well above the European thresholds in the city and around, so your workout may be more affected by the air quality than you would think.
Emerging Air Quality Monitoring Trends for 2025
Discover the cutting-edge advancements shaping air quality monitoring in 2025. From real-time data modeling and AI-driven analyses to smart indoor systems and pollution source detection, explore how innovative technologies are transforming environmental and indoor air quality management. Learn how solutions like Airscan empower individuals, businesses, and governments to take proactive steps toward a cleaner, healthier future !
