Why monitor air quality?
Air pollution is an invisible killer: fine particulate matter penetrates deep into the lungs, bloodstream and bodies and is responsible for about one-third of deaths from strokes, chronic respiratory disease, and lung cancer as well as one quarter of heart attack deaths. Many sources of air pollution also are heavy emitters of CO2, contributing to climate change. Monitoring air quality provides a strong incentive to tackle air pollution issues and helps identify solutions to reduce it.
The EU4Environment – Water and Data programme works to improve air quality monitoring and air pollutant emission inventory data in line with the European engagements and international obligations of Armenia. A concept for modernising air quality monitoring according to European requirements has been developed, and its implementation will need investments in automated air quality monitoring stations. The programme also supports raising awareness on fine particulate matter in municipalities.
