The presence of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), the main indicator of pollution generated by motorized traffic, fell by 6.4% at the Gran Via station in Sabadell during 2025. This concentration of 26.3 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) represents the historical minimum, although the city remains the second worst in air quality in Catalonia, only behind the Eixample district of Barcelona.
“"The weather is critical and makes the difference. Rain and wind favor the movement of particles. The anticyclone has the opposite effect."
According to ICTA-UAB researcher Sergi Ventura, the improvement is not due to the entry into force of the LEZ in December, but to an anomalous 2025 with record rainfall, exceeding 800 liters per square meter. This meteorological situation, with storms and wind, favors the dispersion of pollutants. Suspended particles PM10 also dropped by 2.5% during the same period.
“"I don't believe in LEZs. It is more effective to plant trees and generate shaded areas to lower the city's temperature. These are actions that truly have a positive impact on the quality of life and health of Sabadell residents."
Despite complying with European Union limits, researcher Mireia Udina (UB) reminds that Sabadell continues to exceed the values recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Former mayor Maties Serracant and other specialists call for a tougher strategy, combining a more restrictive LEZ with increased public transport, while the city council advocates for tree planting and the pacification of school environments.
