Atmospheric sulphur dioxide pollution in Malta : a preliminary study

Abstract

The results of a preliminary survey of the air quality in Malta during May-December 1990 with respect to sulphur dioxide are presented. One-hour-average S02 concentrations as high as 320 ug m-3 have been measured from areas proximate to the Marsa power station. The concentration of S02 in ambient air was found to be strongly dependent on atmospheric conditions and especially on wind direction. At Paola, measured concentrations varied from below the detection limit of 25 ug m-3 to about 160 ug m-3. These preliminary results suggest that specific areas in Malta which are close to the Marsa power station may have an air pollution problem which is significantly more pronounced than that in other areas. The results also indicate the need for a thorough air monitoring programme which would allow the pollution problem to be assessed more accurately and to be followed continually.