Atmospheric Dust Pollution of the Cracow Agglomeration in the Light of Empirical Research

Abstract

The paper presents the problem of dust pollution in the atmosphere of a typical urban agglomeration. The influence of natural and anthropogenic factors on airborne dust concentration is described. The results of air pollution tests with PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter at five measurement points in the Cracow agglomeration are presented. The use of statistical methods has shown the relationship between airborne dust concentration and the season of the year. The highest levels of PM2,5 and PM10 dusts are recorded during the autumn and winter months. During the heating season, the municipal and household sector is mainly responsible for dust emissions. Measures to reduce emissions of air pollution from industrial sources and transportation are proposed.