AMBIENT AIR QUALITY NEAR COPPER MINE BOROV DOL
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46763/NRT2519210sKeywords:
PM10, monitoring, sustainable development, emissionsAbstract
This study investigates the ambient air quality in the immediate vicinity of the Borov Dol copper mine near Radovis, where three monitoring sites were selected at different locations surrounding the mine’s concession area. The measurements were conducted over a period of six months, covering both the winter and spring seasons.
For measurement of the concentration of suspended particulate matter, fraction (PM10) in ambient air, ES-642 Met One (USA) instruments were used, which are certified for indicative monitoring in accordance with MCERTS (UK) standards. The measurements were performed using an automatic method based on nephelometric light scattering, which allows continuous real-time monitoring and recording of particulate concentrations.
The data analysis revealed slightly elevated PM10 concentrations during winter months, attributed to frequent temperature inversions and low dispersion conditions, whereas lower concentrations were recorded during spring under more favorable meteorological conditions. The majority of measured values remained below national and EU limit values, indicating that the mine’s impact on ambient air quality is relatively minor. Overall, the results confirm that effective management and mitigation strategies can minimize air quality impacts associated with copper mining operations.
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