Elbasan and Tirana Rank Among Cities with the Most Polluted Air, Tighter Controls Urged

Although air quality indicators in Albania have improved compared with previous years, pollution remains a concern, especially in urban centers and industrial areas. Data for 2025 rank Elbasan and Tirana among the cities with the highest concentrations of pollutants. In Elbasan, nitrogen dioxide levels have exceeded permitted limits, while PM10 particles remain above recommended standards.

Environmentalist Ahmet Mehmeti says the situation in Elbasan has improved significantly compared with the past, when pollution, particularly during the summer months, reached much higher levels.

According to him, pollution during this period of the year used to be up to 10 times higher, while it is now 10 times lower. Mehmeti considers this change an important step forward, particularly for air quality.

Despite the improvement, traffic and industrial activity remain the main sources of pollution. The environmentalist stresses that continuous monitoring of polluters and enforcement of the law without exception are essential to achieving better results.

Mehmeti emphasizes that, alongside problems related to water and soil, PM2.5, PM10 and NO₂ pollutants continue to pose an avoidable concern. According to him, the institutions responsible for monitoring and enforcing the law must take action against sources of pollution, particularly industry, through inspections and sanctions.

Prolonged exposure to PM10 and nitrogen dioxide, he warns, can harm human health by affecting the respiratory tract and circulatory system, as well as increasing the risk of serious illnesses.

PM10 particles and NO₂ are linked to respiratory and blood disorders. In cases of prolonged exposure, they may also contribute to the development of cancer because they contain heavy metals such as chromium, nickel, lead and cadmium. These pollutants can also end up in water and the food chain.

Experts say that bringing Albania closer to European air quality standards requires strict enforcement of environmental regulations, continuous monitoring and concrete measures against sources of pollution.