The pollen count is at its peak every spring and spending time both outside and inside vehicles is particularly problematic for allergy sufferers. Cabin air filters, which are generally standard, are designed to filter exhaust gases and other air pollutants. If the cabin air filter can no longer fulfill its function, more air pollutants such as dust, soot, nitrogen oxides, benzene, ozone or pollen can enter the interior of the car, for example via the air conditioning system.
Air pollutants
Air pollution – the biggest environmental health risk
According to the latest assessment by the European Environment Agency (EEA), dated November 24, 2023, the health risks from air pollution in Europe are too high according to estimates from 2021. The concentrations of particulate matter are above the guideline values recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the EEA, air pollution is the greatest environmental threat to health.
Stove Ordinance 2024 – new limit values from 2025
The requirements for the operation of wood-burning stoves and other small combustion appliances for domestic use are being tightened as a result of the amendment to the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG). By December 31, 2024, these appliances will have to meet the new limit values for emissions and their minimum efficiency. For some owners of wood-burning stoves, this means that they will either have to shut them down or retrofit them by the beginning of 2025. Modern appliances are generally not affected by the new requirements of the 2024 stove regulations as they meet the standards.
Furnishing children’s rooms with low levels of harmful substances
Children spend most of their time in their room, where they sleep, play or retreat to study. Their parents are often unaware of how heavily contaminated with pollutants these rooms can be. They can come from floors, furniture, textiles or plastic toys, for example. Pollutants in children’s rooms can affect their health and development.
Air pollutants in small combustion plants
Small combustion plants
Small combustion plants are usually operated with fossil fuels such as natural gas, heating oil, coal or wood . They are designed for private use and small businesses.
According to the 1st BImSchV (Ordinance on Small and Medium-Sized Combustion Plants), all plants with a rated thermal input of less than 1000 kW are considered small combustion plants.
Kale – bioindicator for pollutants
Kale is considered a superfood and is a bioindicator for air pollutants and contaminated soils. Active biomonitoring, with biologically standardized measurement methods, can be used to determine and assess the effects of air pollution and other stresses on the environment and humans.