Health impacts of air pollution

Air pollution in Albania is a significant problem related to public health that must be addressed. The Albanian government has drawn up plans and strategies to reduce air pollution. The objectives of the environment air quality strategy (2014) are to bring air quality as close as possible to European standards. Based on urban air quality monitoring carried out over the years, road transport causes the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter with a diameter of 10 μm or less (PM₁₀) observed in most urban areas. According to the emissions inventory for 2022, the amount of particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM_2.5) emitted was 2.21 kt, of which 80.0% came from the production of non-metallic minerals and 10.3% from point sources where combustion takes place in the production of construction products. However, Albania has made progress and has reduced the rate of premature deaths due to exposure to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM_2.5) by 53.7% between 2005 and 2022 (see graph). Measures have been taken to improve road infrastructure and mobility and increase the number of new cars with lower emissions. During the last few years, the number of electric and hybrid vehicles has increased. Albania is reviewing its national strategy for ambient air quality and national air quality management plan.