Workshop measurements and modelling of PM2.5 in Europe Overview and Proceedings

Countries have started to include measurements of PM_2.5 and its components in their national air quality monitoring networks. Harmonization of the national air quality networks is on its way but takes a considerable amount of effort. As a consequence it is difficult to make a consistent view of PM_2.5 Europe wide. Policy assessments which aim at finding adequate conditions for compliance to the PM_2.5 standards are therefore still very uncertain. In addition there is growing evidence that, like PM₁₀, also PM_2.5 is a rather crude indicator for the health effects associated to particulate matter. So it is necessary to design smart policies which aim at the health improvement and take at the same time the current uncertainties into account about the efficiency of the PM_2.5 air quality standards for health improvement.