Air pollution is one of the key environmental issues in Armenia, especially relevant during the winter season when the heating period and stagnant air due to geographical and climatic features increase the concentration of harmful substances. In large cities like Yerevan, high levels of vehicle emissions, the use of solid fuel for heating, and dust from surrounding landscapes create dangerous conditions for health.
«Could it just be fog and not smog from pollution?» skeptics may ask. 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 smell. Smog, on the other hand, often has a yellowish or brownish tint, is accompanied by the smell of smoke or chemicals, and causes discomfort when breathing.
During 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) are microscopic particles in the air measuring less than 10 micrometers (PM10) and 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) in size. These particles irritate the respiratory tract, cause coughing, worsen symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, and increase the risk of cardiovascular and oncological diseases. PM2.5 is particularly dangerous as it can enter the bloodstream through the lungs.
In Armenia, the main sources are vehicle exhaust gases, burning of solid fuels (wood, coal), industrial production, and dust from roads and surrounding mountainous landscapes.
Learn more about particulate matter and its health effects.
Monitoring of this indicator is a key focus of our project.
SO2 is a toxic gas with a sharp odor that is produced when sulfur-containing materials are burned. The main sources are coal-fired power plants, industrial production, and heating with low-quality fuels.
Inhalation of sulfur dioxide irritates the respiratory tract, causes coughing, shortness of breath, and can trigger asthma attacks. Prolonged exposure is linked to chronic lung diseases.
In Armenia, its concentrations are higher in winter, especially in areas where coal is used for heating.
NO2 is a pungent gas with a characteristic smell and is one of the main air pollutants. It is formed 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 may contribute to the development of chronic lung diseases.
Tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant formed through the reaction of sunlight with exhaust gases. The main sources are vehicle emissions and industrial facilities.
Ozone can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, and lungs, exacerbate asthma symptoms, and cause chronic damage to the respiratory system. Its concentrations are typically higher in summer, especially on sunny days.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced during incomplete fuel combustion. Major sources include vehicle exhaust, faulty heating devices, and fires. Carbon monoxide blocks the transport of oxygen by the blood, leading to headaches, weakness, nausea, and at high levels, poisoning or even death.
PAHs are a group of chemical compounds formed during the burning of coal, wood, oil, and other organic substances. PAHs have carcinogenic properties, increasing the risk of lung, skin, and other types of cancer. 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. Prolonged exposure is associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly of the respiratory tract. Furniture made of particleboard can emit formaldehyde for a long time, making it essential to buy high-quality furniture and regularly ventilate spaces.
