the essential
A major cause of carcinogenic fine particles, could wood heating be banned one day in Toulouse, as is already the case in large foreign cities? Atmo Occitanie, the air quality watchdog, offers food for thought.
Under the pink vault of Toulouse's bricks, an invisible scourge poisons daily life: air pollution. Despite notable efforts, the Occitan capital remains confronted with worrying levels of microparticles. This environmental challenge gives rise to strong tensions, particularly around the establishment of a stricter Low Emission Zone (ZFE). Currently, Crit'Air 3 vehicles can still circulate throughout the metropolis, a measure considered insufficient by many experts. According to Atmo Occitanie, nearly 63% of residents of large cities in the region, including Toulouse, continue to breathe air that exceeds the quality objectives for fine PM2.5 dust.
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These pollutants invade the lungs of more than 1.5 million residents. Since 2010, their carcinogenic nature has been scientifically established. In winter, wood stoves remain one of the main contributors to these emissions in the Toulouse region. Should these heating devices be banned (except modern pellet devices)? Long taboo, this question is now essential.
52% of fine particles come from wood heating
In the metropolis, around 35,000 homes heat with wood, which represents the primary source of fine particle emissions. In 2023, wood heating was responsible for 52% of fine particle emissions, mainly from old equipment such as open fireplaces.
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“Montreal has decided to completely ban wood heating systems to limit emissions of fine dust. London is following a similar approach,” informs Dominique Tilak, general director of Atmo Occitanie. Such a measure, if adopted, could provoke heated debates, although studies confirm that the significant reduction of microparticles clearly reduces mortality.
DDM
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Between 2009 and 2019, annual concentrations of PM2.5 microparticles decreased by 40% in the region, a notable improvement compared to other types of pollutants. This progress has had a tangible effect on public health: among those over 30, the rate of deaths linked to prolonged exposure fell by 54%, from 159 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2009 to 73 in 2019. Nevertheless , many challenges persist. If average concentrations of PM2.5 reached the values recommended by the WHO (5 μg/m³), nearly 73 deaths could be avoided each year per 100,000 inhabitants among those over 30 years old.
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Atmo Occitanie has launched a similar study on endocrine disruptors, molecules that interfere with the human hormonal system. These substances, present in the air, can come from pesticides, plastics or certain industrial processes.
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To carry out its work, the institution chose five sites in Occitanie: two in urban areas (Toulouse and Montpellier), two in agricultural areas (including one wine region), and a former industrial site. “We are seeking to understand the distribution of these pollutants depending on the environment,” explains Dominique Tilak. Data on endocrine disruptors are complex to analyze. The first conclusions will only be available in 2026, but they should enlighten communities on the actions to be taken.
The Mirail incinerator under surveillance
The Mirail household waste incineration plant, operated by SETMI, is subject to careful monitoring regarding its impact on the quality of the surrounding air. A recent ATMO measurement campaign, carried out in 2023 at Saint-Simon college, provides reassuring elements, while emphasizing the need for rigorous monitoring. The campaign assessed the concentrations of several air pollutants, including fine particles (PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The results show that the measured levels respect the European regulatory thresholds. However, “it is essential to maintain these analyzes in order to detect any variation that could affect the health of local residents,” specifies the report. The study also included analyzes of dioxin and heavy metals. The results confirm management in compliance with environmental standards, but highlight seasonal variations due to local weather conditions.
