Call for Shore Power in Greenland

Air quality screenings recorded at the port of Ilulissat in Greenland show high air pollution levels with an average around 60-70 times higher than safe low particle levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) of 1,000 particles/cm3.

The measurements, taken by Dr Kåre Press-Kristensen, senior advisor on air quality and climate at Green Global Future, found average concentrations in Ilulissat port between 60,000 and 70,000 particles/cm3 (with peaks above 200,000), suggesting that port workers and residents are regularly exposed to high levels of toxic air pollution, particularly when wind blows from the port towards residential areas.

Such pollution increases the risk of strokes, cardiovascular diseases, lung diseases, cancer, and as a result, the risk of premature mortality among residents. In addition, soot particles are a key driver for global warming.

The Clean Arctic Alliance says the findings demonstrate health risks to residents and workers, underlining the need for electrification of port equipment in Greenland, along with onshore power for domestic vessels to reduce port pollution and climate warming.

The measurements, made between July 29th and August 7th 2026, contained a high number of ultrafine particles with a high content of soot (black carbon) which is both toxic to human