Air quality and health impact of PM10 and EC in the city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands in 1985–2008

A health impact assessment (HIA) of PM10 and elemental carbon (EC) was performed for the period 1985–2008 in the city of Rotterdam. The spatial distribution of the concentrations was modeled by the URBIS model. The modeling results for 2008 were validated by PM10 and EC measurements at various locations in Rotterdam. This paper describes the HIA related to improved air quality in the period 1985–2008: at urban background locations 18 μg m−3 PM10 and 2 μg m−3 EC. The gain in life years saved due to long-term exposure to PM10 and EC in this period was, respectively 13 and 12 month per person. The similar health impacts for PM10 and EC suggests that reduction of combustion aerosol was important for the reduction in health impact of PM10.

► Health impact assessment of PM10 and EC in Rotterdam (NL) in 1985–2008.
► Life years saved for PM10 and EC was respectively 13 and 12 month per person.
► Reduction of combustion aerosol important cause for improved air quality.