The quality of air in Podgorica has come under scrutiny, as local officials assert that it is not more polluted than the air in Pljevlja. In statements made during the morning program on RTV Podgorica, representatives from the Agency for Environmental Protection emphasized that air quality measurements from multiple monitoring stations indicate that Podgorica’s air is not as compromised as some claims suggest.
According to Gordana Đukanović, a representative from the Agency, the data collected show that particulate matter (PM) levels, particularly PM 10 and PM 2.5, are lower in Pljevlja than in the capital. The monitoring station in Blok 5 of Podgorica has recorded the highest levels of PM particles, but it is situated near residential areas that utilize wood for heating, busy roadways, and urban developments. This context plays a significant role in the readings reported by the station.
Air Quality Variability and Contributing Factors
Đukanović explained that air quality can vary substantially throughout the day, especially during the winter months when individual heating sources, traffic, and illegal waste burning contribute to pollution levels. She firmly disagrees with assertions that Podgorica has worse air quality than Pljevlja. “Currently, Pljevlja exhibits lower concentrations of PM 10 and PM 2.5 particles. However, the cumulative impact of coal burning and high levels of sulfur dioxide during the winter months, especially from the Thermal Power Plant, must be taken into account,” she stated.
The Agency is urging citizens, particularly young people and parents with children, to limit outdoor activities on days when pollution levels rise. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels, as the agency is working to enhance its application that provides real-time air quality data.
Commitment to Transparency and Accuracy
The Agency for Environmental Protection reassures the public that all air quality data is readily available and that efforts are underway to improve the current application for more precise information. This proactive approach aims to ensure that residents can make informed decisions regarding their health and outdoor activities based on accurate air quality assessments.
As the debate over air quality continues, officials stress the importance of understanding the various factors influencing pollution levels and the need for the community to remain vigilant and informed.
