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Dutch Air Quality Resources

Main Air Pollutants in the Netherlands

Discover the key air pollutants that determine air quality across the Netherlands. Luntero tracks the most important components, including nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), particulate matter (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅), and the Dutch Luchtkwaliteitsindex (LKI). Each pollutant affects health and the environment differently, and together they help paint a complete picture of the air we breathe.

Air Pollutants & Indicators in the Netherlands
Planning a move or comparing rentals? This section explains the key air quality indicators used across the Netherlands—NO₂, PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, O₃—and the Dutch Air Quality Index (LKI), all sourced from the official Luchtmeetnet network. Luntero integrates station data so you can evaluate neighbourhoods, cities, and commute corridors for cleaner air while browsing apartments for rent. Values are reported in µg/m³ (or LKI levels) as hourly and daily averages, enabling meaningful comparisons between areas like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and beyond. While not every pollutant in existence is listed, these widely monitored indicators offer the most practical picture of day-to-day exposure and living conditions for renters, families, and anyone relocating within the Netherlands.

What We Cover

We focus on the most impactful air pollutants for Dutch cities: nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), particulate matter (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅), ozone (O₃), plus the Luchtkwaliteitsindex (LKI) for an at-a-glance view. This curated set maps closely to housing decisions—helping you compare neighbourhood air quality when shortlisting rental listings or choosing between districts.

How Measurements Work

All readings come from Luchtmeetnet monitoring stations using harmonised Dutch/EU methods, quality control, and consistent units. Data are typically updated as hourly or daily averages (µg/m³, or index for LKI), providing reliable inputs for comparing nearby areas during a property search or evaluating likely exposure along your commute.

Netherlands & EU Context

Luchtmeetnet follows nationally and EU-aligned methodologies, making results comparable across provinces and major metros. That consistency lets you assess air quality differences between cities and neighbourhoods with confidence—useful when weighing rentals near busy roads, ports, or greener residential zones.

How to Read the Numbers

Lower pollutant values and lower LKI levels generally indicate cleaner air; short spikes can occur near traffic or during specific weather patterns. Look at multi-day trends and typical ranges when comparing flats, and consider local context—distance from ring roads, industrial sites, or parks—alongside the measured data.

Main Air Quality Components Measured in the Netherlands

Luntero monitors the main air pollutants measured by Luchtmeetnet across the Netherlands, including nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), fine and coarse particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), ozone (O₃), and the Dutch Luchtkwaliteitsindex (LKI). These key components help compare air quality between cities and neighbourhoods, making it easier to evaluate living conditions near rental properties.

Dutch Air Quality Index (LKI - Luchtkwaliteitsindex)
The Dutch Air Quality Index (LKI) gives a simple snapshot of overall air pollution levels. It combines key pollutants into one score to help you quickly understand today’s air quality.
Overall Air Index
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Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a traffic-related gas that often spikes in busy urban areas. It’s a major contributor to smog and can affect both lungs and overall health.
Traffic Emission Gas
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Particulate Matter ≤10 µm (PM10)
PM10 particles are coarse dust and soot small enough to be inhaled into the upper airways. They often come from traffic, construction, and natural sources like dust storms.
Coarse Dust Particles
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Fine Particulate Matter ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5)
PM2.5 particles are fine pollutants that penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. They are among the most harmful pollutants, mainly from combustion and chemical reactions in the air.
Coarse Dust Particles
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Ozone (O₃) - Ground-Level
Ground-level ozone (O₃) is a secondary pollutant formed on sunny days from traffic and industrial gases. It irritates the lungs and damages plants, making it a key driver of summer smog.
Sunlight-Formed Gas
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Dutch and EU Air Quality Context

All air quality information on Luntero comes from Luchtmeetnet, the official Dutch air monitoring network operated under national and EU standards. This ensures that every measurement—whether for NO₂, PM, O₃, or the LKI index—is consistent, transparent, and comparable across the Netherlands and other European countries.

View Luchtmeetnet data source
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