Lübeck in danger: The air quality is that bad today!

Lübeck in danger: The air quality is that bad today!

In Lübeck, air quality could currently come back into the public eye. A current measuring station in Moislinger-Allee provides information about pollution with fine dust (PM10), nitrogen dioxide and ozone. These parameters are crucial for assessing the air we breathe every day. On December 4, 2025, the air quality levels were examined again and whether the limit value for PM10, which is 50 particles per cubic meter and may be exceeded a maximum of 35 times per year, is being maintained. Since worrying values ​​can have an impact on health, it is worth taking a look at the background.

Air quality is divided into different categories based on the pollutants measured. Values ​​over 200 µg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide, over 100 µg/m³ for fine dust and over 240 µg/m³ for ozone are considered very bad. But the less extreme categories should not be underestimated either: with values ​​of 101 to 200 µg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide or 51 to 100 µg/m³ for fine dust, it is better not to undertake physical exertion outdoors, especially for sensitive people. This is urgently sensitized by n-ag.de.

Health risks from air pollution

Air pollution is considered the biggest environmental health risk in Europe. Particulate matter is estimated to have caused at least 239,000 deaths in the EU in 2022, raising serious alarm. People are often exposed to higher concentrations of pollutants, particularly in urban areas. The EEA also reports on the significant health effects caused by long-term exposure to pollutant air.

Forecasts show that improving air quality is not only desirable but also necessary. By 2030, air pollutants are to be reduced by 55% in order to sustainably secure the health of the population. But the reality is often different. Every year, fireworks on New Year's Eve release around 2,050 tons of fine dust into the air, with 75% of it being released that evening. During the celebrations after midnight, the level of exposure can increase dramatically, especially in large cities.

Prospects and measures

Despite the alarming situation, the new EU air quality directives, in force since December 10, 2024, could represent a step in the right direction. These regulations are more closely aligned with WHO recommendations and are intended to further improve air quality. The importance of forward-looking measures becomes particularly clear when one considers that more than a third of agricultural land in Europe is above the ozone threshold, which has negative consequences not only for health but also for the economy.

The problems are complex, but can be contained with targeted action. It is therefore important that both the authorities and the population pull together to noticeably improve air quality in Lübeck and beyond. The responsibility for a good environment does not just lie with politicians - every individual can make a contribution through environmentally friendly decisions.