Precision demands to the extent of pollution
The Eixample Respira organization has urgently requested the installation of a new pollution monitoring station in Barcelona. This demand is born of the need to have reliable data that reflect the true environmental situation of the city, especially at a time when the two current fixed stations, located on Calle del Comte d’Urgell and in the Plaza de Gala Placídia, have been affected by the works of the L8.
Problems with current data
Eixample representatives breathe that the data collected by these stations could be distorted due to an ‘artificial reduction in pollution levels’ resulting from the traffic restrictions imposed by the works. In particular, the Gràcia station has been relocated, but new traffic restrictions could affect its reliability as a reference.
Inappropriate location of the current station
Eixample breathes that the location of the measurement station is not ideal for a precise image of pollution in the Eixample. According to the entity, the station is in a landscaped area, which does not reflect the real conditions of the Eixample streets, which are narrower and with lower ventilation.
Most representative examples of data
As evidence, the platform quotes the measures obtained by mobile units of the Public Health Agency, which have registered higher levels of pollution in areas such as the streets of Aragon and Viladomat, in contrast to the figures of the Eixample station.
The need for a new point of measurement
Eixample breathes also emphasizes that the current station should not be the only reference source to evaluate the air quality of Barcelona. They provide data that shows that pollution levels in areas near schools and other areas with high traffic, such as the side of the Ronda de Dalt in Nou Barris, are alarmingly high.
Worrying data and administrative inaction
The data obtained by the mobile stations indicate that pollution levels can exceed more than 10 points the records of the Eixample. In addition, Eixample breathes the authorities for the inaction with respect to the station of Avenida Meridiana, which has been pending to be put into operation for five years.
Conclusion and upcoming steps
With this request, Eixample breatts seeks not only an immediate solution, but also to raise awareness of the importance of air quality in the city. Its proposal represents an opportunity to redefine the way pollution is measured and perceived in Barcelona, with the aim of ensuring a healthier future for its inhabitants.
