Winter in the northern hemisphere is marked by anticyclones that generate periods of intense cold, clear skies and a lack of precipitation. The atmospheric stability and high pressures resulting from these conditions lead to air stagnation. This means that the air cannot be cleared of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NO_x), carbon dioxide (CO₂) and particulate matter (PM₁₀), which build up and seriously affect air quality, especially in urban areas. This situation is especially harmful for the elderly, children and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions.

Individual mobility and energy consumption have a direct impact on air quality. Using public transport and vehicles that do not rely on combustion engines helps reduce the emission of air pollutants from transport (30% of CO₂ emissions in the EU come from this sector). Efficient driving, regular maintenance and adjusted tyre pressure also help to control emissions.

Adjustments to company travel policies and putting pressure on suppliers to reduce the number of trips by grouping orders and rationalising workplace deliveries are other good transport-related practices that can help improve the air we breathe.

Through both individual and collective action, we can reduce winter anticyclones’ impact on air quality and protect our health.