By Jonida Shano
Polluted air has turned into an invisible threat to the health of residents in the Korça region. In the meetings held with local actors, it was emphasized that it constitutes one of the major environmental problems in the region that affects the quality of life of the residents and public health. Unfortunately, the responsible institutions have failed to carry out regular monitoring and inform the public about the dangers that this pollution brings.
Some of the main sources of air pollution in Korça are:
- Industry: Industrial enterprises and factories operating in the region often use fuels for production and energy, which causes the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere. This includes nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter (PM).
- Vehicle Traffic: Heavy traffic and the use of old, high-emission cars contribute significantly to air pollution. Harmful gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and unburned hydrocarbons are major causes of pollution.
- Residential Heating: In winter, the use of wood for heating in private residences is a major source of air pollution. Burning these materials releases fine particles and other hazardous pollutants.
- Agricultural Activities: Agricultural practices, such as stubble burning and the use of pesticides and fertilizers, are other sources of pollution that negatively affect air quality.
Effects of Air Pollution
- Public Health: Air pollution has been linked to a number of health problems, including respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems. Children and the elderly are particularly sensitive to air pollution.
- Environment: Atmospheric pollutants damage ecosystems, causing damage to plants and animals. In addition, acidification of soils and water resources due to acid rain (which is formed from nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides in the atmosphere) poses a threat to soils and water resources.
- Quality of Life: Air pollution affects the quality of life of residents, reducing the quality of the air they breathe and creating unfavorable conditions for living and working.
Solution: Cooperation for a Cleaner Environment
To address this problem, close cooperation between local authorities, the community and the private sector is essential. Only through a joint approach can the creation of a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents of the Korça region be achieved
