Uniting Bulgarian cities to improve air quality

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Air pollution from domestic heating and transport is a significant problem in Bulgaria. Nearly 90% of the urban population was exposed to excessive levels of particulate matter (PM10) in 2016, well above the EU average. Levels of fine particulates and benzo[a]pyrene also greatly exceeded target values in many towns and cities. This project brings together six major municipalities, building capacity to implement air quality programmes as required by the EU Air Quality Directive and national legislation. For instance, the project will pilot the replacement of polluting household heating systems and will draft national recommendations for the transition to alternative forms of heating. LIFE IP CLEAN AIR will be a catalyst for the mobilisation of EU structural funding and national funds worth around € 1.4 billion in total. The project's actions are expected to contribute to air quality that meets legal requirements in the municipalities of Sofia, Burgas, Veliko Tarnovo, Montana, Ruse, and Stara Zagora, which are home to one-third of the Bulgarian population.

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