UV radiation has unexpectedly increased rapidly in parts of Central Europe over recent decades. According to the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BFS), between 1997 and 2022 UV radiation in the Dortmund region in the west German increased by well over 10 percent. Scientists found that during the same period in the area Brussels In Belgium radiation increased by up to 20 percent. The study was published in the specialized journal “Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences”.
An important factor: cloud cover
Scientists believe that the significant increase is mainly due to the decline in cloud cover in Central Europe. “This change, which may also be caused by climate change, leads to more hours of sunshine. And thus to an increase in the time during which solar UV radiation can reach the Earth,” the press release stated.
For the study, scientists analyzed UV data from a measurement station in Dortmund. They then compared these values with a UV measuring station near Brussels, which is located at the same latitude.
The authors of the study were surprised by the results. They assumed that radiation had increased only moderately since the late 1990s.
UV radiation: dangers
“The results show that population exposure to UV radiation may increase for the German population,” explained the BFS. This shows how important it is to develop additional measures to counter the growing UV pollution in Europe.
Excessive UV radiation can cause diseases such as: cancer skin. The more intensely and frequently the skin is exposed to UV rays, the greater the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen, long clothing and shady areas are important protection, especially in summer. UV radiation cannot be seen or felt. It is present even when the sun is not shining.
Different intensity
According to the data, the intensity and risk of UV radiation depends on many factors such as the position of the sun, latitude, altitude, cloud cover and the ozone layer. The ozone layer is like a natural UV shield.
If the ozone concentration is lower, the share of UV radiation increases. Some substances released by humans in industry, transport and agriculture increase ozone depletion.
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