Potrjeno: increase in desert dust pollution over Europe The international research team, which confirmed increasing concentrations of Saharan dust over Europe, included four Slovenian researchers. July 15, 2026, 17:44 An international research team, including scientists and researchers from the Centre for Atmospheric Research at the University of Nova Gorica, has confirmed that increasingly frequent occurrences of Saharan dust over Europe are not just a perception but a reality. After years of research, they can conclude that there is an ever-growing amount of Saharan dust over southern Europe, which could have significant long-term effects on air quality and public health even here. The results of their study were recently published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature. Researchers identified at least two causes for the rising levels of Saharan dust in European air: first, changes in regional atmospheric circulation patterns, and second, the expansion of the Sahara Desert. “Everything points to climate change caused by human activity also affecting natural phenomena,” says Prof. Dr. Griša Močnik, head of the Centre for Atmospheric Research at the University of Nova Gorica, who participated in the study. “We used to think that Saharan dust was a natural phenomenon beyond our control. But it has turned out that we cannot ignore nature anymore.” He emphasizes that Saharan dust is similar to other weather phenomena that become more intense due to warming of the atmosphere and oceans. According to him, this study presents a challenge to environmental policies, which currently justify high concentrations of certain substances in accordance with existing legislation as part of natural processes beyond human influence. “But here it has been shown that humans at least indirectly affect the fact that there is more Saharan dust above us,” he warns, adding that a new reconsideration will be necessary. Dr. Griša Močnik: “Everything indicates that climate changes caused by human activities also affect natural phenomena.” Measurements conducted at 103 locations Researchers collected approximately 18,500 daily measurements of metals associated with Saharan dust (including aluminium, titanium, silicon, calcium, and iron) during the period from 2012 to 2021. These measurements were carried out at 103 rural and urban locations throughout Europe. Slovenian results were gathered in a study conducted near the Soča River, where they examined the impact of nearby cement production on the environment. “It has been shown how local problems and local data can become part of global research and global responses,” the researcher notes. They found that Saharan dust concentrations have increased almost everywhere in Europe, most notably over Italy and the Adriatic and Aegean Seas. In these areas, the concentration of Saharan dust already represented nearly a third of annual reference values for PM10 particles, which according to World Health Organization guidelines still represent a safe value for public health. Over this part of Europe, Saharan dust typically arrives 46 times per year. Saharan dust was also captured on the Triglav Glacier. /Photo: ZRC SAZU Analysis of ice cores from Alpine glaciers showed that the deposition of Saharan dust has increased by approximately 110 percent since the pre-industrial era. Researchers fear that dust pollution could become an increasingly serious challenge for public health and complicate the goals that Europe has set regarding air quality. High concentrations of Saharan dust in the air negatively affect primarily patients with respiratory diseases. Significance of the Study According to Griša Močnik, the study did not bring only significant results but also established a framework for conducting such studies elsewhere. “The result is not just a publication that we are very happy about, but also the development of methods for processing such data, which could be used elsewhere in the world facing increasing air pollution, for example in China and India,” concludes the researcher.
4 reports
DnevnikIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 7517 days agoAn international research team, including four Slovenian scientists from the University of Nova Gorica's Atmosphere Research Centre, has confirmed that increased Saharan dust episodes over Europe are not just temporary but a growing reality. The study, published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, reveals that concentrations of Saharan dust in southern Europe have been rising, which could significantly impact air quality and human health. Researchers identified two main causes: changes in regional atmospheric circulation patterns and the expansion of the Sahara Desert. Prof. Dr. Griša Močnik, leader of the research centre, emphasized that climate change caused by humans is influencing natural phenomena, challenging the previous belief that Saharan dust was purely a natural occurrence unaffected by human activity. The findings suggest that current environmental policies may need reconsideration, as they often exempt certain pollutant concentrations as 'natural' processes beyond human control. Measurements were conducted at 103 locations across Europe between 2012 and 2021, revealing significant increases in Saharan dust levels, particularly over Italy and the Adriatic and爱
Bias read (Center): The article presents a scientific study with balanced reporting, citing researchers from Slovenia and referencing a reputable journal (Nature). While the content discusses implications for environmental policy, it does not take a clear ideological stance or promote specific political agendas. The ph
Why factuality (85): This article closely mirrors the primary source document, confirming the increase in Saharan dust over Europe and citing the study published in Nature. It attributes the increase to changes in atmospheric circulation and desert expansion, and includes direct quotes from Prof. Dr. Griša Močnik. It al
Why objectivity (75): The article maintains a balanced tone, presenting the findings without excessive alarmism. It includes expert quotes and discusses the implications for policy, but subtly frames the issue as an emerging challenge that requires attention, showing a slight lean towards concern rather than complete neu
DeloIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 7517 days agoThe article discusses a study indicating that desert dust, particularly Saharan sand, has increased in concentration in the air across much of Europe between 2012 and 2021, with the most significant increases observed in southern Europe and around the Mediterranean. The research, led by scientists at the University of Nova Gorica’s Atmospheric Research Center, attributes this rise to changes in regional atmospheric circulation patterns and the long-term expansion of the Sahara. The study warns that higher concentrations of Saharan dust could negatively impact air quality and human health, linking it to increased risks of asthma attacks and higher mortality rates. While the frequency of dust events has not increased significantly, their intensity has grown, especially in southern regions like Italy, the Adriatic, and the Aegean Sea. The study also notes that historical ice core data suggests a 110% increase in Saharan dust deposition since pre-industrial times, highlighting a long-term environmental trend.
Bias read (Center): The article presents scientific findings without overt ideological framing. It reports on a study conducted by researchers at the University of Nova Gorica and references international collaboration, maintaining a balanced tone. There is no clear attempt to promote a specific political agenda or立场,
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reflects the primary source document regarding the increase in Saharan dust over Europe, particularly in southern regions. It mentions the study conducted by researchers from the University of Nova Gorica and highlights the correlation between climate change and increased dust
Why objectivity (75): The tone is somewhat alarmist, emphasizing the negative health impacts of Saharan dust and linking it directly to human-induced climate change. While it presents the findings objectively, it leans slightly towards highlighting the significance of the issue rather than maintaining strict neutrality.
RTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicCenterFactual 80Objective 7010 days agoThe article reports on increasing levels of Saharan dust affecting southern Europe, particularly focusing on health impacts and air quality concerns. A study published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature by researchers at the University of Nova Gorica, part of an international research group, indicates that concentrations of Saharan dust have risen across much of Europe between 2012 and 2021, most notably in southern Europe and around the Mediterranean. The study notes that while instances of Saharan dust pollution have not become more frequent, they have intensified in parts of southern Europe, significantly impacting air quality and public health. Researchers suggest this increase could be linked to climate change, though some experts argue natural cyclical patterns, such as cyclonic activity, might also play a role. Health authorities warn that Saharan dust can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and contribute to higher emergency visits, hospitalizations, and potentially increased mortality rates among vulnerable groups.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses environmental issues with potential implications for public health and policy, it does not take a clear ideological stance. It presents findings from a scientific study without overtly promoting any particular political agenda. The discussion includes perspectives from a
Why factuality (80): This article aligns closely with the primary source document, discussing the increase in Saharan dust in southern Europe and attributing it to changes in atmospheric circulation and desert expansion. It references the study published in Nature and includes quotes from researchers. However, it lacks
Why objectivity (70): The article maintains a generally neutral tone but emphasizes the public health implications of increased Saharan dust. There is a slight bias towards presenting the issue as a significant threat, though it does not overtly take sides beyond reporting the findings.
Nova24TVParty-alignedCenterFactual 40Objective 5013 days agoThe article discusses growing concerns about the spread of the Lone Star tick, which can cause a condition known as alpha-gal syndrome, leading to lifelong allergies to red meat. The phenomenon has gained attention due to increasing cases in the United States, where the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report rising numbers of diagnosed cases annually. Social media platforms have amplified fears, with viral videos showing attempts by YouTuber Rusty Cage to kill a Lone Star tick over 16 days, highlighting its extreme resilience. Scientific studies suggest that Lone Star ticks can survive for weeks in water and up to 19 weeks in nymph form, making them particularly concerning. Experts warn of the potential for permanent allergic reactions and note ongoing research into treatments and cures.
Bias read (Center): While the article covers a health-related issue with significant public concern, it does not present a clear ideological slant. The focus remains on scientific findings and expert opinions rather than partisan perspectives. The framing is balanced, presenting both the risks posed by the tick and the
Why factuality (40): This article diverges significantly from the primary source document, discussing a completely different topic related to the Lone Star tick and alpha-gal syndrome. It introduces new concepts and theories not mentioned in the original study, leading to a major factual discrepancy. The content is unre
Why objectivity (50): The article is highly subjective and speculative, introducing unfounded theories about the origin of the Lone Star tick. It uses emotionally charged language and presents speculative ideas as if they were established facts, lacking any objective balance or neutrality.
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