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Easter fire: fine dust alarm for our health!
Easter fires in Germany cause significant fine dust emissions, which can affect health. Find out more here.
Easter fire: fine dust alarm for our health!
Easter fires are very popular in Germany, especially in rural regions and areas with strong customs such as northern Germany. It is estimated that between 10,000 and 20,000 of these fires burn every year and are traditionally used to drive away winter. Nevertheless, the fine dust emissions caused by these traditional fires should not be underestimated. Deutschlandfunk reported that fine dust, regardless of its concentration, can cause health problems because fine particles enter the lungs through the nose and mouth.
According to the Federal Environment Agency (UBA), Easter fires have similar fine dust emissions to the fireworks lit on New Year's Eve. In 2023, an estimated 1,200 tons of PM2.5 particulate matter were produced by traditional fires, while New Year's Eve fireworks caused 1,150 tons of PM2.5 particulate matter. The UBA also reported that road traffic released 16,300 tons of PM2.5 particulate matter in 2023 and wood burning caused 12,500 tons. These high values illustrate the level of fine dust pollution, which varies regionally at Easter and depends on several factors.
Health effects and air quality
Air quality may be affected during the Easter holidays, particularly in urban areas, by emissions from the Easter fires. As a rule, however, the fine dust pollution is above the usual values, without the limit values being exceeded. Factors such as the number of fires lit, the fuels used and weather conditions influence the exact amount of particulate matter. Wind has the ability to disperse the fine dust, while rain in turn helps remove it from the air.
Although Easter fires are a tradition enjoyed by many, the associated fine dust emissions also cast a shadow over this custom. As the celebrations continue, the health aspect of particulate matter pollution remains an important issue that should continue to be considered to minimize the impact on the population. Loud Weather.com The impact on air quality also varies regionally, with larger, centrally organized fires occurring in urban areas.