The measurements carried out at the stations in Heraklion, Chania and Finokalia Lassithi, in the framework of the cooperation of the University of Crete with the Region, provide data on the air pollution caused by the extensive fires in the wider region of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The evolution of atmospheric conditions, according to scientists from the Laboratory of Environmental Chemical Processes, University of Crete, is as follows: “In the early morning hours of 7/8/2021, increased concentrations of pollutants from fires occurring in our country . This is reflected in the measurements from the station in Finokalia, where carbon monoxide (CO) gas levels were recorded four times normal, particulate black carbon or smoke 10 to 12 times higher than the background, as well as aerosol concentrations of PM10 above 50 / m3 per five minutes, a fact that is rarely observed in the absence of desert dust “.
As the researchers point out, these levels are comparable to current measurements in Athens. “In Heraklion (Alikarnassos) temporarily increased concentrations of PM2.5 were observed temporarily during the night until early in the morning, but they quickly decreased to normal levels. The high concentrations were associated with gaseous masses, originating first from the Peloponnese, and then from Attica and Evia, carrying a significant pollutant load from the catastrophic fires. The change in the direction of the wind and the reduction of the intensity of the fires, resulted in the dispersion of the pollutants and the reduction of their levels “.
The above demonstrates the significant impact of pollution transfer from remote areas on air quality, which is monitored in the framework of the “Action Plan for tackling air pollution for the Region of Crete”.
Additional data are recorded in the findings of the measurements, through the network of micro-sensors (air-quality.gr) which operates in the framework of the national research infrastructure for the study of atmospheric composition and climate change, “Panakeia”
Latest News
Number of Turkish Visitors to Greek Islands up 10-Fold After 7-Day Express Visa
More than 20,000 Turkish tourists flocked to the eastern Aegean isles during a nine-day religious period in the neighboring country
Greece to Protect 198 ‘Untouchable Beaches’
These beaches, numbering 198 across the country, fall within the Natura 2000 network and will be off-limits for concession and, by extension, for the placement of umbrellas, sunbeds, etc.
BoG: Feb. Current Account Deficit up by 1.8bln
At current prices, exports dropped by 10.3% (‑10.7% at constant prices) and imports grew by 5.7% (9.4% at constant prices).
Greece Becoming a ‘Refuge’ for German Pensioners
The government's policies to attract foreign property buyers to boot the economy is working, reports German newspaper Handelsblatt
Iran Activates Air Defense System- Reports of Attack by Israel
An Iranian official said explosions reported by Iran's media were the result of the activation of the country's air defense system, yet media reports attribute them to a drone attack by Israel
Poll: Greeks, EU Citizens Eager to Vote in European Elections
EU citizens are eager to vote in the upcoming elections for the European Parliament in June, with eight in 10 saying the current geopolitical situation makes voting imperative
Mitsotakis-Erdogan Meeting in Ankara Fixed for May 13
The Greek PM himself made the announcement from Brussels on Thursday, while he also responded to a question on Athens' intent to create a marine park in the central Aegean, an environmental initiative
Greece Aims to Boost Energy Capacity, Economy with Offshore Wind Farms
Greece’s Energy Ministry is pushing legislation to accelerate the construction of the first floating wind farms in Greek seas
Reuters: Greek Economy Surges After Decade of Pain
Nevertheless, the article also highlights some of the challenges facing the country, with a falling birthrate and labor shortages posing a threat to the long-term outlook
IMF: Greek Growth in 2024 at 2%; Debt to Ease to 158.8% of GDP This Year
Projected consumer prices are forecast to rise by 2.7%