One World - Air Quality Public Consultation Phase 1 (3)

Mepa coordinates two types of monitoring activities: the passive diffusion tube monitoring network and the automated real-time measurement of pollutants.

The diffusion tube network is used to periodically review and assess air quality in Malta and Gozo. By doing this, areas of high pollution are identified and the need for more detailed, continuous automatic monitoring allocated. Diffusion tubes for various pollutants are installed monthly in a number of localities in Malta and Gozo. These tubes are then analysed in a laboratory where the concentration of each pollutant is determined.

As opposed to the diffusion tube network, real-time air monitoring stations can determine concentrations of pollutants and meteorological variables every 15 minutes. Currently, MEPA runs four automated real-time measuring stations in Malta situated at a traffic site in Msida, an industrial site in Kordin, an urban background sites in Zejtun and a background site in Għarb, Gozo. Three of the above-mentioned five stations have been part-financed by two European Funding Programmes, namely Transitional Facility 2004 and the European Regional Development Fund 2004-2006.

These stations cover all pollutants requiring monitoring and reporting under the Air Quality Framework Directive and the four Daughter Directives.

Particulate matter is considered one of Malta's most significant air pollutants, the concentrations of which exceed EU standards in specific areas.

Mepa is inviting the general public, local councils, NGOs and government entities to suggest realistic policy measures that will help contribute towards decreasing and limiting concentrations of fine dust in ambient air. Submissions by the public or other interested parties can be sent by e-mail to airqualityplan@mepa.org.mt.

All submissions need to reach the Authority by May 22.