Air quality in Norway has generally improved since the 1990s. Despite this, many people in the larger towns are still affected by local air pollution, which is one cause of respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Concentrations of local air pollutants exceeding the limit values are recorded every winter.
Ground-level ozone is another air pollutant, which can cause health problems and damage vegetation and materials. In Norway, ground-level ozone is sometimes formed in concentrations exceeding levels recommended in air quality guidelines, particularly in spring. Hazardous substances and acid rain are transported in the atmosphere from other parts of Europe.
Transport and industry important pollution sources
The largest source of local air pollution is road traffic, including exhaust emissions and asphalt dust from the use of studded tyres. Other sources are residential heating systems and industry. In addition, pollutants from road traffic and the combustion of oil and coal are transported to Norway from other parts of Europe. Ground-level ozone formation and acid rain in are largely caused by long-range transboundary pollution.
Both national and international action needed
Norway has set national targets for emissions of harmful air pollutants, and the legislation lays down limit values for air pollution. To achieve these targets, action is being taken to reduce emissions from road traffic. But Norway will not be able to solve all its own problems without emission reductions in other countries, and is therefore taking part in international efforts to reduce long-range transport of pollutants.