Georgia expands air quality monitoring with EU and UN support

Supported by the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Georgia’s National Environmental Agency is expanding its network of modern monitoring stations providing real-time data on air quality and pollution sources.

Five stations are already operating in Rustavi, Poti, Zestaponi, Zemo Sakara, and Ozurgeti, while five more will be installed in Bolnisi, Gori, Sighnaghi, Borjomi, and Chiatura by the end of 2026.

Using modern technology, the stations measure various types of air pollution, including fine dust particles (PM2.5), traffic and fuel combustion emissions (NO₂), industrial emissions (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO) produced by incomplete fuel combustion.

This detailed monitoring measures air quality at a specific location and time while also providing real-time information about pollution sources.

On 29 May, representatives of the European Union, UNDP, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the National Environmental Agency visited one of the monitoring stations installed at the public school in the village of Tazaqendi near Rustavi.

“The European Union strengthens Georgia’s ability to monitor pollution, identify its sources, and protect communities, especially in high-risk areas. Cleaner air means healthier people, lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life for everyone,” said Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Georgia.

The visit concluded at Tazaqendi Public School, where guests met teachers and students to discuss how environmental education and hands-on experience equip young people with the knowledge and skills to shape a more sustainable and greener future.

The EU and UN support for expanding Georgia’s air quality monitoring network is part of the broader EU-funded initiative, Air Quality for Better Citizens’ Health, implemented jointly by UNDP, WHO, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the Environment Agency Austria (UBA).

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Press release