SOFIA, Bulgaria — The environmental organization “For the Earth” has called for a permanent ban on the most polluting vehicles in central Sofia, urging authorities to extend existing restrictions beyond the winter months to address the city’s worsening air quality.
Currently, Sofia’s “Low Emission Zone” (LEZ) restricts vehicles in the first and second eco groups from entering the area within the capital’s “small ring road” during the winter season, spanning December 1 to February 28.
However, “For the Earth” argues that seasonal bans are insufficient to combat the growing levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) pollution, which significantly exceed safe limits in many parts of the city.
Alarming Pollution Levels
Recent data collected by air quality monitors between November 2023 and February 2024 reveals that NO₂ concentrations surpassed the annual average threshold of 40 µg/m³ in 34 of 36 monitored locations. The pollution levels were higher than those recorded in 2021 and 2022, highlighting a troubling trend.
The findings indicate that nitrogen dioxide pollution is prevalent in residential areas, commercial zones, and spaces near schools and public transport hubs, putting a large portion of Sofia’s population at risk.
Busy streets and major boulevards, particularly those frequented by diesel-powered vehicles, showed the highest concentrations of NO₂.
“Vehicles, especially older diesel models, are clearly the primary source of these emissions, and the current measures simply do not go far enough,” said a spokesperson for “For the Earth.”
Impacts on Public Health
Exposure to high levels of NO₂ is associated with respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and reduced lung function, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Environmental experts warn that Sofia’s air pollution poses a serious public health risk that demands urgent action.
“Air pollution isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a public health emergency,” the group emphasized, adding that reducing vehicular emissions is critical to improving the city’s air quality.
Call for Permanent Measures
The existing LEZ restrictions, which impact around 140,000 of the city’s most polluting vehicles, expanded this winter to include the second eco group for the first time.
However, “For the Earth” argues that restricting high-polluting vehicles only during winter months is inadequate given the persistent levels of air pollution throughout the year.
The group is advocating for the LEZ to become a permanent measure, covering all months and maintaining strict enforcement. This, they argue, would significantly reduce NO₂ emissions and create cleaner, healthier urban environments for Sofia residents.
Next Steps
The organization is urging city officials to adopt more ambitious policies, including expanded restrictions on older vehicles, promoting the use of public transportation, and investing in green infrastructure.
While the winter ban is a step in the right direction, “For the Earth” insists it falls short of addressing the city’s urgent pollution challenges.
With air quality deteriorating and residents increasingly aware of the health risks, the group hopes their call for stronger, year-round measures will prompt authorities to act decisively.
Whether policymakers will heed their demands remains to be seen, but the pressure for meaningful action continues to mount.