A pilot project to monitor air quality detected unsatisfactory levels in 12 schools located in the northern and central regions of Portugal. The analysis focused on measuring fine particles and polluting gases in the school environment.
The pollutants monitored were PM10, PM2.5 particles and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The hourly concentration profiles of these contaminants revealed patterns consistent with the influence of road traffic in the vicinity of the educational establishments.
The data collected showed significant increases in pollutant concentrations during rush hours, both in the morning and in the afternoon, periods coinciding with intense vehicle movement on roads near the schools.
