Air pollution is one of the key environmental issues in Armenia, especially relevant during the winter period when the heating season and stagnant air caused by geographical and climatic features intensify the concentration of harmful substances. In large cities like Yerevan, high levels of vehicle emissions, the use of solid fuels for heating, and dust from surrounding landscapes create hazardous health conditions.
«Maybe it's just fog, not smog from pollution?» skeptics say. In fact, distinguishing smog from fog is quite simple. Fog only occurs with high humidity and when the temperature drops to the dew point. It appears whitish or grayish, evenly covering the area, and has no odor. Smog, however, often has a yellowish or brownish tint, is accompanied by the smell of smoke or chemicals, and causes discomfort while breathing.
In winter, Yerevan and the Ararat Valley often experience a phenomenon called «temperature inversion». Cold air gets trapped under a layer of warm air, preventing vertical air mixing and leaving pollutants near the ground. This leads to the accumulation of smog from vehicle emissions, heating systems, and industry, drastically deteriorating air quality. Therefore, monitoring pollution levels during winter is especially important.
Particulate matter (PM) refers to microscopic particles in the air, smaller than 10 micrometers (PM10) and 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) in diameter. These particles irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, worsening asthma and bronchitis symptoms, and increasing the risk of cardiovascular and cancer diseases. PM2.5 is particularly dangerous as it can enter the bloodstream through the lungs.
The main sources in Armenia include vehicle emissions, burning of solid fuels (wood, coal), industrial production, and dust from roads and surrounding mountainous landscapes.
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SO2 is a toxic gas with a sharp odor that forms when sulfur-containing materials are burned. Major sources include coal power plants, industrial production, and heating with low-quality fuels.
When inhaled, sulfur dioxide irritates the respiratory tract, causing coughing, shortness of breath, and potentially triggering asthma attacks. Long-term exposure is linked to chronic lung diseases.
In Armenia, concentrations are higher in winter, especially in areas where coal is used for heating.
NO2 is a pungent gas that is one of the main air pollutants. It forms during fuel combustion, especially from vehicle engines and heating systems.
NO2 irritates the respiratory tract, increases the risk of respiratory infections, worsens asthma symptoms, and can contribute to the development of chronic lung diseases.
Tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant that forms as a result of sunlight reacting with exhaust gases. Major sources include vehicle emissions and industrial facilities.
Ozone can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs, exacerbate asthma symptoms, and cause chronic respiratory system damage. Its concentrations are typically higher in summer, especially on sunny days.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that forms during incomplete fuel combustion. Major sources include vehicle emissions, faulty heating devices, and fires. Carbon monoxide blocks oxygen transport in the blood, causing headaches, weakness, nausea, and, at high levels, poisoning or even death.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemical compounds that form during the combustion of coal, wood, oil, and other organic substances. PAHs are carcinogenic, increasing the risk of lung, skin, and other cancers. They also cause inflammation and may affect fetal development.
Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound used in building materials and some household products. It causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Long-term exposure is linked to an increased risk of cancer, especially of the respiratory tract. Particleboard furniture can emit formaldehyde for a long time, making it essential to buy quality furniture and regularly ventilate rooms.
