One of the main contributors to man-made sources of fine dust or particulate matter is traffic.

The national air monitoring network which also covers monitoring of PM shows that exceedances are higher in traffic sites.

The figure compares the number of exceedances of the PM10 daily acceptable level in 2007 in four different air monitoring stations placed in different locations around the Maltese Islands.

It is quite clear that the largest number of exceedances is present at the traffic site.

In fact, this amount surpasses the allowed number of exceedances by the relevant EU legislation in one year.

Particulate matter is considered one of Malta's most significant air pollutants, the concentrations of which exceed EU standards in specific areas.

Mepa is inviting the general public, local councils, NGOs and government entities to suggest realistic policy measures that will help contribute towards decreasing and limiting concentrations of fine dust in ambient air. Submissions by the public or other interested parties can be sent by e-mail at: airqualityplan@mepa.org.mt.

All submissions need to reach the Authority by May 22.