Brussels' air quality worst in Rue de la Loi and Forest

Fine particulate matter concentrations in Brussels are highest in Rue de la Loi and in the municipality of Forest, according to a study by University of Antwerp professor Roeland Samson. The results of the study were presented at the weekend during a seminar on Brussels air quality organised by the Flemish Christian democrats (CD&V). The party has since prepared a series of proposals to tackle the problem of poor air quality in the capital.

For the study, Samson analysed linden tree leaves collected at various locations, and found that the air quality in Brussels, just as in other cities, varies greatly. In places where there is little traffic, such as the Royal Park, the Park of Brussels, Avenue Anspach and parts of Anderlecht, the study shows relatively lower levels of fine particulate matter. Higher concentrations of particulate matter were noted in the vicinity of the Flemish Parliament, Place Sainte-Cathérine and Molenbeek. "It is often worse where there are narrower streets with tall houses, leaving little room for ventilation," concludes the professor.

"The highest concentrations were found in Rue de la Loi,” he says. “Which is not surprising given the heavy traffic there, as well as in Forest, and the old Citroën garage."