Gyeonggi Institute of Health and Environment: "Ions Account for Half of Fine Particulate Matter Components"

The Gyeonggi Provincial Institute of Health and Environment has published the “2025 Air Component Measurement Station Operation Results Report,” which includes an analysis of the main components of fine particulate matter (PM-2.5) and other air pollutants measured at four air component measurement stations located in Pyeongtaek, Gimpo, Pocheon, and Icheon within the province.

According to the fine particulate matter component analysis, ions accounted for the largest proportion, ranging from 45% to 51%. This was followed by carbon (23% to 30%) and heavy metals (2% to 3%). The high proportion of ion components indicates that “secondary generated particulate matter”—formed by chemical reactions of pollutants emitted from sources such as workplaces and vehicles in the atmosphere—has a significant impact.

Gyeonggi Provincial Institute of Health and Environment's "2025 Atmospheric Component Monitoring Station Operation Report"

The annual average concentration of lead (Pb) was recorded at 0.01650 ㎍/㎥ in Pyeongtaek, 0.02963 ㎍/㎥ in Gimpo, 0.01830 ㎍/㎥ in Pocheon, and 0.01681 ㎍/㎥ in Icheon—equivalent to only 3% to 6% of the air quality standard (annual average of 0.5 ㎍/㎥). The annual average concentration of benzene was measured only in Gimpo and Pyeongtaek, amounting to 0.52 ppb and 0.50 ppb, respectively, which satisfies the air quality standard (1.5 ppb, 5 ㎍/㎥).

Kim Donggi, Head of the Climate and Air Research Division at the Institute, said, “Through continuous observation and analysis at the air component measurement stations, we are monitoring changes in air quality across the province,” and added, “We will continue to provide fundamental data necessary for air environment management.”

Detailed information related to the report can be found on the Gyeonggi Provincial Institute of Health and Environment website (gg.go.kr/gg_health) and the Air Environment Information Service (air.gg.go.kr).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.