Assessment of Atmospheric Pollutants and Environmental Parameters in an Industrial Urban Area of Albania

Air pollution has become a significant public health concern in our country. In recent years, scientific research has focused mainly on the sources of pollution and its impacts on human health. This study was conducted as part of the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation’s initiative to evaluate outdoor air pollution in the Elbasan region, one of the main industrial urban areas of Albania. The research aims to characterize the spatial and temporal variability of key atmospheric pollutants through real-time monitoring. The parameters measured include iBut, SO₂, PH₃, NH₃, O₃, NO, CO, CO₂, CH₄, O₂, H₂S, and NO₂, along with particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), ambient noise level, temperature, and relative humidity. Data were collected using portable air monitoring equipment, allowing high-resolution temporal analysis. The concentrations of pollutants were statistically evaluated and compared with the limit values established in the European Union Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe. Preliminary findings reveal significant temporal variations in pollutant concentrations, primarily influenced by traffic density, industrial activities, and meteorological conditions. The results contribute to establishing a comprehensive air quality database for the Elbasan region and provide a scientific basis for evidence-based environmental management and policy planning in Albania.