Level 2 - Details on Particulate Matter

1. What is Particulate Matter (PM)?

1.1 Why does particle size matter
1.2 How are particles formed?
1.3 Which materials are the main components of particulate matter?

2. How does Particulate Matter affect human health?

2.1 Effects of long-term exposure to levels of PM observed currently in Europe
2.2 Is PM per se responsible for effects on health?
2.3 Which physical and chemical characteristics of PM are responsible for health effects?
2.4 Are health effects of PM influenced by the presence of other gaseous air pollutants?
2.5 Characteristics of individuals that may influence how PM affects them
2.6 Is there a threshold below which nobody’s health is affected by PM?

3. How are we exposed to Particulate Matter?

3.1 Critical sources of PM or its components responsible for health effects
3.2 Relationship between ambient levels and personal exposure to PM
3.3 Short-term exposure to high peak levels and exposure in hot spots for PM

4. Should current PM guidelines be reconsidered?

4.1 Impacts on public health of PM reductions
4.2 Averaging period most relevant for PM standards to protect human health
4.3 Reconsideration of the current WHO Guidelines for PM

5. Conclusions on Particulate Matter (Level 1 only)

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