Runólfur Ólafsson, the chairman of the Icelandic Automobile Owners Association (FÍB), has expressed strong concerns over the significant dust pollution affecting the capital city, Reykjavík, in recent weeks. He highlights an incident where heavy construction work was being carried out on Hverfisgata, where contractors were seen using large stone saws, releasing thick clouds of dust over the area. Ólafsson argues that the prevalence of such practices is unacceptable and that stricter regulations need to be enforced on contractors to mitigate environmental health risks.

The issue of dust pollution has escalated recently, prompting multiple warnings for the residents of Reykjavík regarding harmful air quality levels. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid using their private vehicles to reduce emissions and dust, but the lack of stringent oversight on construction activities has continued to be a significant contributor to the problem. The current measures, including occasional dust suppression actions, are deemed insufficient by FÍB.

Ólafsson's remarks underscore a growing frustration among the public and environmental advocates regarding the apparent negligence of regulatory frameworks which should protect urban air quality. As construction activities ramp up in the city, the call for stricter enforcement of regulations on dust emissions represents a crucial aspect of broader discussions on urban sustainability and public health in Iceland.