The introduction of a low-emission zone from transport in Sofia reduces air pollution.
For three months from December 2024 to February 2025, an over 10% drop in nitrogen dioxide concentration was recorded. This is shown by a study by the environmental association “Za Zemiata“, which has been measuring air pollution in dozens of points in Sofia for years.
The low-emission zone from transport in the capital was officially introduced at the end of 2023, but in a limited three-month regime and without strict sanctions - from December to February. Real control over vehicles subject to regulation occurred only last winter.
December 2024 was the first month with functioning video surveillance for violators and actual implementation of the measure.
The analysis of "Za Zemiata" focuses on the second period and shows that we have a clear reduction in air pollution as a result of the introduction of the low-emission zone" - said Ivaylo Popov from an environmental association - one of the authors of the analysis.
The Deputy Mayor for Ecology of Sofia Nadezhda Bobcheva confirmed that the low-emission zone from transport has an effect, according to data from the municipality.
"In addition to the potential for reducing pollution, it also shows the potential for changing people's habits," she pointed out.
In order to reduce air pollution more significantly, the restriction must become year-round. The low-emission transport zone must expand its scope both as a territory and as affected vehicle categories.
"This is forthcoming, the expansion of the zone, and the change in the period in which it will operate", added the Sofia Deputy Mayor.
But, according to Nadezhda Bobcheva, in its current configuration, the Sofia Municipal Council would have difficulty making the decision to introduce a year-round low-emission zone.
"I personally have no expectations that this will happen before 2027," she concluded.