Interreg IVA PMLab
The Dutch province of Limburg, together with a number of Dutch and foreign partners, has started setting up an information system for particulate matter. The purpose of this project, which will last for three years, is to create a comparable approach to the cross-border particulate issue. The objective of the project is the provision of reliable information on the particulate load in the Meuse-Rhine Euregion, in particular along the borders. Comparable measurement results, uniform procedures for calculations and accurate knowledge of the type, sources and distribution of particulate matter will ensure that reliable information is obtained by the authorities and the population, along with greater certainty in respect of infrastructure plans and air quality plans.
It will improve the cooperation and exchange of measurement data and procedures between the bodies involved. This will ultimately ensure that air quality plans and policy measures are better harmonised with one another.
In our environment, particulate matter is one of the most important sources for the occurrence and worsening of many respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The loss of healthy years of life as a result of illness or premature death in the Euregion, with a population of 3 million, is estimated at 30,000 in 2010. Major sources of particulate matter are traffic, heating systems and industry. The European Union has set limit values, but these are frequently exceeded in the Euregion (permitted number of times the daily average can be exceeded). This not only has an effect on health, but also on the development of new infrastructure projects.
Air pollution does not stop at the border. A good exchange of information and cross-border cooperation are necessary, particularly for a region like the Euregion.