Investigation of air pollution caused by traffic: The case study of Vilnius, Lithuania

Air pollution is a pervasive environmental issue affecting the health and well-being of populations worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that high levels of pollutants expose approximately 90% of the global population, leading to an estimated 4,2 million premature deaths annually due to outdoor air pollution. The primary sources of air pollution include emissions from industry, agriculture, residential heating, and transportation, with key pollutants being particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Among these, PM2,5 is particularly concerning due to its ability to penetrate deep into the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, leading to severe health consequences. This study explores the air quality challenges faced by Vilnius, Lithuania, in the context of its urban development and increasing traffic volumes. It provides a detailed historical overview of Vilnius's urban growth, assesses the current air quality initiatives, and identifies specific challenges related to managing air pollution in the city. The research includes the measurement of NOx, CO, and PM concentrations in high-traffic areas, analyzes the relationship between traffic volume and pollutant levels, and evaluates the effectiveness of existing traffic management policies. By comparing Vilnius with other cities such as Paris, London, and Berlin, the study highlights successful strategies and provides recommendations for improving air quality through enhanced traffic management practices. The findings aim to contribute to local and global understanding of traffic-related air pollution, offering valuable insights into effective policy interventions and technological innovations for urban air quality improvement. This research underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach that combines technological advancements, policy measures, and public engagement to achieve sustainable air quality management in rapidly developing urban environments.