Fireworks contribute significantly to the pollution of outdoor air with ultra-fine particles or nano particles (UFP). Due to the fireworks, large quantities of ultra-fine particles, which are related to some toxic elements and other toxic chemicals, are released into the atmosphere. Recent epidemiological studies indicate various negative effects of ultra-fine particles on health. It becomes more and more evident that exposure at the time of fireworks may be an important risk factor for health. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the level of potential exposure to the ultra-fine particles at a selected location in Ljubljana based on the measurements of ultra-fine particles in the atmosphere and calculation of the inhaled dose of ultra-fine particles [number of particles per body weight per day] during the time of fireworks. Measurements of ultra-fine particles included eight size classes, from 10 nm to 800 nm. Inhaled dose [number of particles per body weight per day] were calculated for (a) the total period of the measurements from October 2016 to August 2017, (b) the period when there were no fireworks or use of large-scale pyrotechnic products (months without fireworks), and (c) the period during the fireworks or use of large-scale pyrotechnic products (January 2017 and June 2017). The number of ultra-fine particles was the highest in the winter months. During this period, the measured values of ultra-fine particles were more than twice as high as in the summer months (April-August 2017). During the whole period, the most constant particle number was in the N3 size class (20-30 nm), while the greatest fluctuation in the measured values was in the N7 (100-200 nm) size class. From April to June 2017, the number of particles in almost all size classes was fairly constant. During the time of fireworks, the potential exposure to ultra-fine particles was greater than exposure to ultra-fine particles in a period without fireworks. The calculation of inhaled dose of ultra-fine particles [number of particles / kg body weight / day] for different age groups showed that the inhaled dose during the fireworks was largely greater than the inhaled ultrafine particle dose in the non-fireworks period, the highest inhaled dose of ultra -fine particles was calculated in the case of the age group of 1 to 6 years and for the size class N4 (30-50 nm). The results obtained indicate a link between a higher concentration of ultra-fine particles in ambient air and fireworks. Consequently, this means greater potential exposure of inhabitants to ultra-fine particles due to fireworks. In order to improve evidence-based assessment, a study of time trends should be carried out, taking into account relevant public health data. It is also important to focus on raising awareness about the harmful effects of fireworks on health and the environment.
D.01 Chairing over/coordinating (international and national) projects
COBISS.SI-ID: 4126949"Nano" is an invisible component of our environment. On the one hand, those are particles (size range 10-9 m), which occur naturally in the environment, for example, in the ambient air (also indoor) and are largely due to anthropogenic activity. These particles can be harmful to health due to their properties. On the other hand, they are deliberately produced as nanomaterials or nanostructures (nanotechnology) that promise a better life and improved health and potential improvements in various fields, for example, nanoelectronics, medicine, biotechnology, food industry, cosmetics, etc. In the context of the discussion, we would be able to answer some questions that would further clarify and supplement the contents of the lectures and also answer all additional questions of the participants. In the discussion we have been guided by the following questions: 1. Where do we encounter nanoparticles in everyday life (in addition to cases presented in lectures), what else do we need to know about their behavior? 2. What evidence is available about their potential adverse health effects? How do they get into our body,what are mechanisms of their action? 3. Many people designate nanotechnology as new industrial revolution: what are the benefits, what kind of risk can it pose (especially in the areas presented in the lectures)? 4. What are the recommendations to protect health in the home environment? At work? In the natural environment? What can / must we do ourselves? What can / must state institutions do? What can education contribute to?
B.01 Organiser of a scientific meeting
COBISS.SI-ID: 30233127