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Date of Graduation
Fall 2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Integrated Science and Technology
Abstract
Public perception on the state of air quality is an unclear and hazy concept whereby every individual has different opinions and views. In fact, the state of air quality is a major concern in many countries, including in Malta. This problem arises from the emissions of a number of pollutants to the atmosphere from a host of processes such as the combustion of fuel to generate electricity and the internal combustion engines to manoeuvre cars. Amongst these pollutants, there are benzene and nitrogen dioxide, which are very hazardous since they cause problems related to human health and contribute in the formation of ground ozone. The levels of these pollutants are continuously being measured by the Malta Environmental and Planning Authority by means of diffusion tubes distributed in various localities. This competent authority was appointed by the 2008 Directive on Ambient Air Quality and Cleaner Air for Europe, which also set up annual limits for the atmospheric pollutants. This research study aims to analyse the actual diffusion tube readings of benzene and nitrogen dioxide levels in Malta and their distribution trends along the island throughout the previous decade. This would eventually be compared with the opinions perceived by the public on the state of air quality collected by questionnaires by using appropriate statistical tests.
Recommended Citation
Cassar, Nikolas, "Public perception on the state of air quality in Malta" (2013). Masters Theses, 2010-2019. 170.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/master201019/170
