Air pollution by ozone across Europe during summer 2008
Ozone pollution is produced by photochemical processes involving nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the lower atmosphere. Ozone levels become particularly high in regions close to high ozone precursor emissions during summer episodes with stagnant meteorological conditions, when high insolation and temperatures persist. In 2008, levels continued to exceed both target values and the long-term objectives established in EU legislation to protect human health and prevent damage to ecosystems, agricultural crops and materials. This report provides an evaluation of ground-level ozone pollution in Europe for April