Indicator air

Heavy metal emissions

Heavy metals are extremely toxic to humans and animals. They become increasingly concentrated in the food chain (bio-accumulation) and lessen the fertility of soil. Lead (Pb), in particular, impairs the formation of blood cells and interferes with normal child development; cadmium (Cd) in its bio-available form is carcinogenic and toxic to plants and microorganisms; mercury (Hg) is toxic to humans, plants and microorganisms. Heavy metals are formed in waste incineration, when scrap metal is melted down, through tyre abrasion in road transport, and in corrosion protection work.

Lead emissions 2022: 10.6 Lead emissions 2021: 10.6 Lead emissions 2020: 9.86 Lead emissions 2019: 10.1 Lead emissions 2018: 10.8 Lead emissions 2017: 11.5 Lead emissions 2016: 11.4 Lead emissions 2015: 11.8 Lead emissions 2014: 13.5 Lead emissions 2013: 13.6 Lead emissions 2012: 14.5 Lead emissions 2011: 15.8 Lead emissions 2010: 16.2 Lead emissions 2009: 17.6 Lead emissions 2008: 18.3 Lead emissions 2007: 19.9 Lead emissions 2006: 20.7 Lead emissions 2005: 22.2 Lead emissions 2004: 24 Lead emissions 2003: 25.4 Lead emissions 2002: 28.8 Lead emissions 2001: 32.6 Lead emissions 2000: 38.7 Lead emissions 1999: 58.4 Lead emissions 1998: 93.2 Lead emissions 1997: 132 Lead emissions 1996: 147 Lead emissions 1995: 167 Lead emissions 1994: 223 Lead emissions 1993: 254 Lead emissions 1992: 296 Lead emissions 1991: 328 Lead emissions 1990: 357

Data for the graph: Excel
Source: FOEN
Method

Emissions are determined by multiplying the annual human activity rates by pollutant-specific emission factors. Data are gathered by means of surveys, modelling and calculations.

 
Last updated on: 29.02.2024

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