Air pollution in Milan: inadequate measures against fine particulate matter

In the agricultural plain surrounding Milano, the situation regarding air pollution continues to raise concerns, with levels of particulate matter (PM) exceeding acceptable thresholds. Legambiente Lombardia reported that on November 11, pollution levels reached alarming peaks, yet no emergency measures were implemented to limit the spreading of livestock manure, one of the main sources of ammonia emissions. These events contribute to the increase of PM2.5 and PM10 particles, further worsening the already compromised air quality in the region. The issue becomes particularly critical in November, when farmers are incentivized to empty their manure tanks before the seasonal ban in December and January. Despite the importance of adopting temporary measures to contain emissions during high-risk periods for air pollution, the algorithm of the Lombardy Region has decided to restrict such measures only to the province of Pavia, leaving other areas exposed to unhealthy air. Damiano Di Simine, the scientific director of Legambiente Lombardia, emphasized that the lack of timely interventions demonstrates a disregard for public health and the region’s inability to effectively manage the smog emergency. Italian Version