KAZALCI OKOLJA

Environmental indicators in Slovenia


Environmental indicators are based on graphs, maps and assessments and as such present environmental trends in Slovenia. The indicators represent one of the four pillars of our environmental reporting, and are prepared in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act. The Environmental Indicators in Slovenia website enables users to browse among 180 indicators. They are based on numerical data and they indicate the state, characteristics and trends of environmental development in Slovenia. They are prepared using a systematic approach based on data and monitoring, as shown in the information pyramid.

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Bad

Research from the European Barometer (EBS) since 2008 has continuously testified to the high awareness of Slovenians about climate changes. Despite fluctuations in perception, for the majority – over two-thirds – climate change represents a very serious problem. Since 2015, we have observed a gradual increase in this awareness, which has surpassed three-quarters of respondents in the latest measurements. According to the most recent data from the REUS 2022 study, more than 80% of households recognize the severity of climate changes, confirming a high level of concern among the population.

Neutral

Population exposure to allergens has been increasing not only in Slovenia but also worldwide. This phenomenon is influenced by the increase in average air temperature. Higher average air temperature results in a longer growing season and thus the longer presence of allergenic pollen in the air. Particularly noteworthy is to mention the pollen of alder, birch, grasses and ambrosia. The severity of exposure to the allergen pollen of alder, birch, grasses and ambrosia shows large annual fluctuations, with distinct differences between the continental Slovenia and the littoral area.

Good
Air

Concentrations of sulphur dioxide in ambient air are no longer harmful for human health. Also, the critical annual value for the protection of vegetation is no longer exceeded. The improvement of the situation in the last decade is a result of the use of low-sulphur fuels in industry and the operation of desulphurisation facilities in thermal power plants.

Neutral

Higher levels of heavy metals and nitrogen are observed around the urbanized areas, industrial regions and around thermal power plants. The reason for elevated levels at the western part of Slovenia is transboundary transport of air pollutants from the Po Valley in Italy, however at the eastern part might be transit traffic and agricultural activity. A decrease of heavy metals and nitrogen in mosses is observed in Slovenia since 1995.

Good

In Slovenia, final users have at their disposal only around 73% of primary energy. In 2015 the rate reached its highest level. The efficiency of electricity and heat production is largely influenced by this share in far.

Neutral

Asbestos (six natural minerals with fibrous) becomes dangerous when the material is worn, damaged, or by removing. Asbestos was widely used in construction and industry until 2003, when Slovenia banned its production. In Slovenia 163,455 tons of waste containing asbestos was generated in the period from 2005 to 2015. The majority (99.5%) presents construction materials. Most of waste containing asbestos derives from households (82%).