SO2 concentration in the Netherlands tested using the standard for public health 1992-2002
The SO2 concentration did not exceed the standard for public health anywhere in the Netherlands in 2002. The presence of large sources in the Rijnmond (Rhine estuary) area leads to higher concentrations in the south-west of the Netherlands than in the rest of the country.
Limit value for sulphur dioxide not exceeded
The limit value for SO2 of 125 µg/m3 was not exceeded on any day in 2002. Exceedance is permitted on 3 days a year. (The figure therefore presents the SO2 concentration exceeded on 3 days.)
The national average SO2 level exceeded on three days was approximately 8 µg/m3 in 2002. At individual monitoring stations this varied from 6 to 22 µg/m3.
Peak concentrations in towns and the south-west of the Netherlands
The highest SO2 concentrations occur in towns and next to roads. This is because emissions of SO2 mainly come from 'urban' sources such as electricity plants, refineries and traffic.
There are also differences within the Netherlands. The highest levels were observed in the Rijnmond area, Zeeland and in the south-west of North Brabant. They are linked to local industry and shipping and the proximity of sources in West Flanders.
European standards for exposure to sulphur dioxide
The EU has adopted a number of limit values for SO2 concentrations for the protection of public health and ecosystems (EU, 1999).
- To protect ecosystems against the impact of prolonged exposure, a limit value has been set of 20 µg/m3. This applies to both the average for the calendar year and to the winter half of the year.
- The EU has adopted two limit values to protect humans against peak concentrations of SO2. The 24-hour average SO2 concentration must not exceed the limit of 125 ug/m3 more than 3 times a year (see the figure above); the hourly average concentration must not exceed 350 ug/m3.
In addition to the limit value for the SO2 concentration, the EU has also adopted a maximum for emissions of sulphur dioxide per EU country (National Emission Ceiling: NEC). If the target values and long-term objectives are not achieved, the emission ceiling for sulphur dioxide will be lowered. The Clean Air For Europe (CAFE) programme supports this integrated policy approach.
Impact of sulphur dioxide on people and nature
High concentrations of SO2 have a negative impact on humans, animals and plants. For example, SO2 contributes to the acidification of ecosystems.
References
- EU (1999). Council directive 1999/30/EC of 22 April 1999 relating to limit values for sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxide, particulate matter and lead in ambient air (link to PDF file). Official Journal of the European Communities No L 163/41.
- RIVM (2003). Data based on measurements from the National Air Quality Measurement Network processed by the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency. RIVM, Bilthoven.
- Staatsblad (2001). Besluit van 11 juni 2001, houdende uitvoering van de richtlijn 1999/30/EG van de Raad van de Europese Unie van 22 april 1999, betreffende grenswaarden zwaveldioxide, stikstofdioxide en stikstofoxiden, zwevende deeltjes en lood in de lucht (PbEG L 163) en de richtlijn 92/62/EG van de Raad van de Europese Unie van 27 september 1996 inzake de beoordeling van de luchtkwaliteit (PbEG L 296) (Air Quality Decree). Bulletin of Acts, Orders and Decrees 269, 1-58.
Relevant sections and indicators in the Environmental Data Compendium
- SO2 concentration in the Netherlands (annual and winter averages), 1992-2002
- Dutch air quality: policy and Dutch air quality: overview of standards
- Guide to Environmental theme of Acidification and transboundary air pollution .
- Health effects caused by environmental factors in the Netherlands
Relevant information outside of the Environmental Data Compendium
- RIVM (2001). Jaaroverzicht luchtkwaliteit 1998 en 1999. RIVM, report 725 301 006, Bilthoven.
- RIVM (2002). Jaaroverzicht luchtkwaliteit 2000. RIVM, report 725 301 008, Bilthoven.
- RIVM (2002). Jaaroverzicht luchtkwaliteit 2001. RIVM, report 725 301 009, Bilthoven.
- More information about concentrations of substances in the air can be found on the site of the National Air Quality Measurement Network.
- Information about current and future developments relating to local air pollution can be found in Environmental Balance 2003 and the National Environmental Outlook 2000-2030.
