Ultrafine Particles (UFP) are extremely small particles in the air with a diameter of 0.1 micrometres (µm) or less, about 1,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. UFP are named as an emerging pollutant in the recently updated Cleaner Air for Europe (CAFE) Directive

UFP are mainly generated as a result of combustion activities with the World Health Organisation (WHO) outlining some primary sources as “vehicles and other forms of transportation (aviation and shipping), industrial and power plants, and residential heating”.

UFP are not currently included in the regulatory Air Quality Standards or monitored by the national ambient air quality monitoring network. Details of pollutants monitored by the network can be found on the EPA’s airquality.ie website.

Dublin Airport monitors a range of air quality parameters as part of its air quality monitoring program, including particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10. The continuous air quality monitor at Dublin Airport forms part of the national ambient air quality monitoring network managed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Dublin Airport air quality monitoring results, including monitoring locations, are published on the Dublin Airport website. Particulate matter results reported at Dublin Airport are within regulatory limits.

The upcoming 2030 Air Quality Standards outlined out in the CAFE Directive do not set a limit value for UFP but the CAFE Directive does introduce upcoming requirements for Member States to begin monitoring UFP in order to support scientific understanding of their effects on human health and the environment.

Exposure to UFP can increase the risk of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases. The WHO has highlighted that exposure to UFP is of concern due to widespread public exposure to emissions from combustion sources.

Dublin Airport is monitoring emerging research on UFP, their health and environmental effects. Dublin Airport will work with regulators on implementation of any new monitoring or other requirements as national guidance and regulation on UFP develops.