The forest fires in Greece that took place on July 23-26, 2018, had a negative impact on the natural environment of the region. There were also human and animal casualties. At one point, they also threatened the capital of this country – Atena.
The main cause of the fires and their rapid spread was the catastrophic heat wave, the largest in intensity and duration in Greece in 30 years. The temperature in Athens was as high as 45 degrees Celsius. Strong winds also contributed to the spread of fires. Since these are the effects of climate change, the question arises as to the possibility of preventing similar phenomena in the future, first of all, to stop the degeneration of the environment.
Fires and air quality
The wave of fires significantly worsened the air quality. Thanks to Airly sensors, we know that the daily PM10 concentration allowed by the WHO increased in one day and was exceeded up to fifteen times, which is an additional threat to residents, even in areas where the fire did not touch. PM10 dust is a mixture of airborne particles with a diameter not exceeding 10 μm. They contain toxic substances, incl. carcinogenic benzopyrene and harmful to many internal organs dioxins.
Smog
It is very dangerous due to the high temperatures prevailing in the country during the summer. In addition, the authorities said that an increased level of air pollution was recorded throughout the country – the ozone concentration exceeded the so-called the level of information to the public. Due to the temperature and pollution, the authorities advise the elderly, children and people suffering from respiratory diseases to stay at home.
Environmental protection in Greece
Greece has officially designated all 239 areas on its territory as special areas of conservation, but has not set conservation priorities or objectives. The necessary measures to protect these areas have not been indicated either.
Air pollution – impact on health and life
Ozone can:
- Obstruct deep and vigorous breathing
- Cause shortness of breath and pain when breathing deeply
- Cause coughing and sore or scratchy throat
- Cause inflammation and damage to the respiratory tract
- Worsen lung diseases: asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis
- Increases the frequency of asthma attacks
- Make the lungs more susceptible to infections
- Cause lung damage
- Cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
PM particles are microscopic solid or liquid bodies suspended in the air. The sources of the particulates can be natural or anthropogenic. We distinguish:
- PM10- particles can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, exacerbate bronchitis, and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection.
- PM2.5- particles increase the age-specific risk of mortality, especially from cardiovascular causes.
The problem of air pollution in the territory of Greece is also caused by the low awareness and low level of environmental education of local residents. An aspect that exacerbates this problem is also the lack of specific actions on the part of the authorities.
