Green Home forum outlines Montenegro air quality strategy

The NGO Green Home organized a forum titled ‘Implementation of the Air Quality Management Strategy at the Local Level’ to discuss goals and measures for improving air quality in Montenegro. The strategy aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the energy, transport, and household sectors.

By 2030, the strategy targets significant reductions in key pollutants: sulfur dioxide by 70%, nitrogen oxides by 55%, ammonia by 30%, and particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds by 20%. Major contributors identified include the thermal energy sector for sulfur dioxide, transport and energy for nitrogen oxides, agriculture for ammonia, and household heating with wood and coal for particulate matter.

Local authorities highlighted challenges such as a lack of monitoring stations for reliable data, the need for effective emission oversight, and the necessity of sanctioning polluters. Participants emphasized the importance of phasing out coal, starting with public institutions, and providing cleaner heating alternatives. Additionally, recent wildfires across Montenegro have been noted as a recurring challenge that negatively impacts air quality.