Volcanoes: An important source for pollutants (contribution July 2017)

Volcanic activity represents an important source for gas and particle emissions, which are potentially harmful for human health and environment. As millions of people live nearby to volcanoes and as volcanoes are important touristic attractions, and therefore, considerable economic factors, the interaction of humans with their emissions cannot be completely avoided. Consequently, it is of paramount importance to understand the hazardous impact of volcanic gases and particles on air quality. Therefore, a joint project by FUB – Research Group for Environmental Monitoring, INGV - Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia , University of Fribourg and Particle Vision was started past Tuesday to test passive sampler systems for monitoring volcanic gases and particles. The sampling takes place at Solfatara within the densely populated “Campi Flegrei” north of Naples (Italy) and will last for the next three months.

Sigma-2 in action at Solfatara (Campi Flegrei, Italy)