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Environment, nature and climate

Ozone levels

Ozone irritates the mucous membranes and attacks the respiratory tract, eyes and lung tissue. At ozone levels above 180 µg/m3, the Hessian State Office for the Environment recommends that children, adolescents and other sensitive persons avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors.

Blue sky with clouds and sun
Blue sky with clouds and sun

Ozone irritates the mucous membranes and attacks the respiratory tract, eyes and lung tissue in particular; when inhaled, ozone penetrates deep into the lungs. In addition to changes in lung function parameters, higher ozone concentrations cause subjective symptoms such as watery eyes, headaches, poor concentration and irritation of the respiratory tract, which are accompanied by a decrease in physical performance as concentrations continue to rise. It is estimated that around ten percent of the population are particularly sensitive to increased ozone concentrations.

The EC threshold values for ozone are defined as follows in EC Directive 2008/50/EC:

Average value during 8 hours (health protection): 110 µg/m3
Mean value during 1 hour (informing the public): 180 µg/m3
Mean value during 1 hour (triggering the warning system): 360 µg/m3

Environmental Agency

Address

Gustav-Stresemann-Ring 15
65189 Wiesbaden

Postal address

P.O. Box 3920
65029 Wiesbaden

Notes on public transport

Bus stop Statistisches Bundesamt; bus lines 16, 22, 27, 28, 37, 45, X26, x72, 262

Information on accessibility

  • Barrier-free access is available
  • The WC is barrier-free

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Explanations and notes

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