Levels of PM10-bound species in Belgrade, Serbia: spatio-temporal distributions and related human health risk estimation

The aim of this study was to identify levels of population health risk caused by the inhalation of PM10-bound species in an urban area. A combination of multiple location measurements, several analytical tools, and cancer and non-cancer health risk assessment was used to evaluate influences of proximate anthropogenic activities and air pollution transport. The concentrations of PM10, six trace metals (As, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb) and benzo[a]pyrene were measured at 15 air quality monitoring stations during the period 2011-2015 in a wide area of Belgrade (Serbia). Significant population health risk was estimated as a result of exposure to particulate air pollution. The concentrations of PM10, As, Ni and benzo[a]pyrene exceeded the EU Directive limit and target values. Of all the analysed species, Cr was the major contributor to carcinogenic health risk. Besides strong local sources related to traffic and industry, the influence of transported pollution is estimated in the range 8.95-36.07 %, with potentially the most important sources being located in East and West Europe.