As winter and cold weather approach, the air quality in Sarajevo is already a cause for concern, marked as “very unhealthy” by early November. The city consistently tops the list of the world’s most polluted cities, prompting authorities to issue daily warnings about the air quality. Residents are advised not to venture outdoors unless absolutely necessary.
The air pollution
The air pollution, exacerbated by factors like household combustion and vehicular emissions, poses significant health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, pulmonary diseases, and heart ailments. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are also vulnerable. Even healthy individuals are cautioned to avoid outdoor activities.
Air quality – “unhealthy for sensitive groups”
By November, Sarajevo’s air had already been labeled as “unhealthy for sensitive groups” posing a threat to citizens with respiratory issues, pregnant women, and children. By the end of December, the city claimed the unenviable third position on the list of the world’s most polluted cities, following Lahore and Pakistan.
The concentration of harmful particles in Sarajevo’s air was 20 times higher than the permissible limit set by the World Health Organization. By Friday, Sarajevo had clinched the top spot with an air quality index of 350, exceeding 400 in some areas.
PM particles, categorized as “fine dust,” are prevalent in the air and can be of natural or anthropogenic origin. They result from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, often in household heating using solid fuels like coal and wood, as well as diesel engines. During winter, PM 2.5 particles, smaller and more dangerous when inhaled, are closely monitored. The concentration of these particles in Sarajevo was a staggering 60 times above the permissible limit.
To be considered clean, the concentration of these particles should not exceed 40 micrograms per cubic meter, with no more than 35 days of annual exceedance.
Minimal time outdoors because of pollution
Media reports suggest that Sarajevo residents are advised to spend minimal time outdoors or, when necessary, to use appropriate respiratory masks for protection. The pollution’s adverse effects are particularly pronounced in pregnant women, impacting the health of unborn babies. Studies indicate that high concentrations of these particles during pregnancy increase the risk of autism and may lead to spontaneous abortion.
Recent research also reveals that PM 2.5 particles significantly affect the endocrine system, potentially causing infertility. Moreover, these particles accumulate in reproductive organs through the placenta and other barriers, posing a threat to reproductive tissues.
Sarajevo’s air quality crisis is not an isolated incident;
Pollution in Serbia
Air pollution is a significant environmental issue in several cities across Serbia, posing risks to public health and the overall quality of life. The main contributors to air pollution in Serbian cities include industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and residential heating. Here’s a closer look at some of the cities facing notable air quality challenges:
- Belgrade:
- As the capital and largest city of Serbia, Belgrade experiences high levels of air pollution, primarily due to traffic congestion and industrial emissions.
- The city’s geographic location, surrounded by hills, can contribute to the trapping of pollutants in the air, especially during weather inversions.
- Niš:
- Niš, as one of the largest cities in Serbia, faces air quality issues linked to both industrial activities and traffic emissions.
- The presence of several industrial facilities and a high volume of vehicles on the roads contributes to the elevated levels of particulate matter and other pollutants.
- Pančevo:
- Pančevo, an industrial city located near Belgrade, is known for its significant industrial complex. The industrial emissions from the oil refinery and other manufacturing units contribute to air pollution in the region.
- The city has experienced several pollution incidents, drawing attention to the environmental challenges associated with industrial activities.
- Valjevo:
- Valjevo, situated in western Serbia, has faced air quality concerns related to industrial activities, including metal production and processing.
- Inversion conditions during the winter can exacerbate pollution levels, leading to increased health risks for residents.
- Novi Pazar:
- Novi Pazar, located in the southwestern part of Serbia, has encountered air pollution issues linked to traffic emissions and residential heating.
- The city’s topography and meteorological conditions can contribute to the accumulation of pollutants, especially during the winter months.
Efforts to address air pollution in Serbia include regulatory measures, technological improvements in industries, and awareness campaigns. The government, along with environmental organizations, is working to implement policies aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality. However, challenges persist, and sustained efforts are required to protect the health and well-being of residents in Serbian cities. Public awareness, the promotion of cleaner technologies, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations are crucial components of addressing the air pollution problem in the region.
In conclusion, the escalating air pollution crisis in Sarajevo demands urgent attention and comprehensive measures to protect public health. The detrimental effects on vulnerable populations, coupled with the broader environmental impact, underscore the need for concerted efforts to mitigate air pollution and foster a healthier living environment for all.