Benzo[a]pyrene concentration in the Netherlands, 1988-2002
The concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) in outside air have remained approximately equal over the last ten years. B[a]P is considered to be a substance that acts as an indicator for the mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH).
Concentration of benzo[a]pyrene stable
Since 1990, concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) have been stable. The average annual concentration of B[a]P in outside air did not exceed the standard of 1 ng/m3. There are probably only occasional exceedances alongside roads.
Standard for exposure to benzo[a]pyreen in outside air
The Dutch standard for the Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAC) for this B[a]P is 1 ng/m3 for the annual average concentration. The European Union has prepared a quality standard for the B[a]P concentration in ambient air (EU, 2003). The EU standard for the annual average B[a]P concentration is 1 ng/m3. This standard still has to be included in Dutch legislation.
Impact of benzo[a]pyrene and PAHs on nature and public health
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) make up a group of some hundreds of organic compounds. The PAH components vary considerably in terms of physical and chemical properties and in terms of risks for people and ecosystems. A number of components are considered to be carcinogenic for humans. Benzo[a]pyrene is a PAH and makes a major contribution to the carcinogenic profile of PAH in outside air.
