Air quality is improving in the Czech Republic. This is shown in the latest preliminary report of the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ). This good news comes despite concerns about local heating. The year 2024 will rank among those with satisfactory air quality. This is mainly due to environmental measures in households.
One of the key pollutants monitored by the CHMI over the long term is benzo[a]pyrene. It is a carcinogenic substance, mainly produced by the combustion of solid fuels in outdated boilers. Its concentration is a critical indicator of the impact of domestic heating on the air.
Cleaner air thanks to better boilers and stoves
The report states that in 2024, benzo[a]pyrene levels were the second lowest over the entire measurement period since 2005. Although about a third of stations exceeded the immission limit, the overall trend is positive. The modernisation of domestic heating plays a major role. People are increasingly replacing old, non-environmental boilers with new lower-emission equipment, often thanks to subsidy programmes.
"The ban on the operation of Class 1 and Class 2 boilers, which came into force on 1 September 2024, has accelerated the transition to cleaner heat sources," the report said. In addition to equipment replacement, unusually favourable weather conditions have also played a role. The mild winter and good dispersion conditions contributed to better air quality, especially in February.
Wood yes, coal no
The report clearly distinguishes the negative impacts of outdated coal-fired boilers from the more environmentally friendly wood heating. It is precisely in the so-called "village hotspots" - for example in Bavorov, Třešt' or Dobříš, where households often use solid fuels - that above-limit concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene are still evident. However, it is the type of appliance and the method of combustion that make the crucial difference.
Modern low-emission wood stoves and boilers can reduce pollutants to a minimum - if they are operated correctly and burn high-quality, dry wood. Thus, eco-friendly wood heating remains one of the sensible and affordable solutions that can contribute to energy self-sufficiency without a major impact on the air.
To continue is necessary
However, the CHMI warns that pollution from local heating plants remains one of the main problems. And that to achieve permanently clean air, it is necessary to continue to educate, regulate and promote modern forms of heating - especially those that combine renewable sources and low emissions.
Are you interested in the full preliminary report with the air quality assessment for 2024 from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute? You can find it HERE.
