APRIL 15, 2010: La polución causada por el tráfico empeora en el área metropolitana

The contamination of the air in the area of Barcelona continues being above the levels that mark the European guidelines. The seen pollution is caused by the dioxide of nitrogen, which is said to be be linked directly to the traffic, and steadily increasing. This circumstance has confused the Departament of Medi Ambient, that directs Francesc Baltasar. The Generalitat had prompted does more than one year a reduction of the velocity from the cars to a maximum of 80 kilometers per hour, among others measures to reduce the contamination in the metropolitan area. For the first time in ten years, the level of contamination by the solid particles is situated under the allowed limits.

The last report on air quality had surprising results. The nitrogen dioxide levels in Barcelona surpass what is established by the EU. The nitrogen dioxide level has reached an average of 46 microgramos by cubic meter, that is to say, 4 units above the limit established by Brussels. Other concerns arise for Barcelona. The second metropolitan zone is situated just in the limit of the European demand, when the previous year does not surpass the threshold required. This has proven that the situation has only gotten worse and caused people to worry more. Nevertheless, there has been considerable improvements in the contamination by solid particles since 2007. In response to these results, suggested changes such as the objective to reduce the velocity of cars and other measures have been taken into account in order to improve the quality of air.

The secretary of Medi Ambient explained yesterday that the increment of the dioxide of nitrogen is a phenomenon that is being repeated in many other European cities as well. It has been reported that the main source of emission is the combustion of the vehicles with internal combustion engines. In order to gain access into Barcelona, the speed limit is 80km/hr, which is one of the measures the Government has taken into consideration in order to reduce the emissions.

Baltasar indicated that some studies aim at that the new generation of motor diésel are in the restriction of the majority of the emissions contaminants. In addition, it has been said that such reduction of the mobility in Catalonia seems to be a consequence of the fall of the economic activity. All causes indicates that the speed limit to 80 km/h would be able to be maintained, since the Govern relates this measure with the results obtained in the country of the road safety and the descent of the accident.