Air quality is a critical factor affecting human health and environmental sustainability. Prof. Dr. Afrodita Zendelska, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Natural and Technical Sciences, Goce Delchev University in Shtip, North Macedonia, and an expert collaborator at the AMBICON Laboratory, sheds light on the importance of monitoring and analyzing air quality, the challenges involved, and actionable solutions to mitigate pollution.

Monitoring air quality is not just about measuring pollutants but about understanding their sources and impacts. From biomass combustion during winter to traffic emissions in summer, Prof. Dr. Zendelska provides a comprehensive view of the main contributors to air pollution in North Macedonia. Her work emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring, community-driven solutions, and tailored policies to tackle this pressing issue.

With a strong foundation in scientific research and practical applications, the AMBICON Laboratory has played a pivotal role in identifying pollution sources and designing measures to improve air quality in various municipalities. Prof. Dr. Zendelska highlights the role of consistent monitoring and public awareness in creating healthier, more sustainable environments for all.

1. Why is air quality analysis important for human health and the environment?

“Air quality analysis is essential for understanding its impact on human health and the environment, as it provides data that can be used to develop policies aimed at reducing pollution and improving public health.

Air quality analysis involves measuring the levels of various pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter known as PM2.5 and PM10, which can cause health problems. It also looks at gases like ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. Additionally, we analyze the chemical composition of air samples including elements like carbon and water-soluble substances to understand where the pollution is coming from.

Some of the most concerning air pollutants are fine particles (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone (O₃) because they are linked to serious health problems like heart and lung diseases, as well as premature deaths. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), high exposure to PM2.5 is responsible for around 374,000 premature deaths in the EU each year, while elevated ozone levels contribute to an additional 14,600 deaths.

The difference between PM10 and PM2.5 is that PM10 affects the upper respiratory tract, while PM2.5 can penetrate deeper into the bronchioles and alveoli in the lungs, causing various respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic lung diseases. Long-term exposure to polluted air increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as pollutants like PM2.5, NO₂, and CO can cause arterial inflammation and elevated blood pressure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of deaths annually are directly linked to air pollution, primarily due to heart and respiratory diseases.”

2. What is the process for selecting locations for air sampling, and why is long-term monitoring important?

“The selection of air sampling locations is crucial for ensuring the representativeness of collected data. The chosen location should reflect broader regional conditions, whether near high-traffic areas, industrial facilities, or rural environments.

Key factors in site selection include population density, proximity to pollution sources, wind direction, and geographical features like elevation, which can affect pollutant dispersion. Instruments should be placed in open spaces, avoiding obstructions like tall buildings or trees.

Long-term air quality monitoring helps identify trends over time, revealing whether air quality is improving or deteriorating. This information is vital for shaping policies and adjusting regulations to enhance air quality.”

3. What are the main pollutants and sources of air pollution identified in your research?

“Our research at the AMBICON Laboratory shows that during the heating season, biomass combustion is the primary source of air pollution. This includes household heating with firewood, as well as ovens, restaurants, and small industrial facilities.

In summer, traffic becomes the main source, including emissions from exhaust gases, brake and tire wear, and outdated diesel engines. Additionally, in some regions, mineral dust from quarries, construction, and road resuspension contributes significantly to pollution.

Open burning, including agricultural waste and landfill fires, is also a seasonal contributor. Public and industrial heating systems that burn heavy fuel oil and diesel are year-round sources, alongside secondary aerosols formed through atmospheric chemical reactions.”

4. How do air quality monitoring data support pollution reduction measures?

“Based on air pollution source studies conducted by AMBICON Laboratory, year-long monitoring data has enabled us to develop tailored air quality improvement plans for each municipality. These plans include specific recommendations to address identified pollution sources and are customized to the unique needs of each area.”

5. Why is regular air quality monitoring crucial, and what actions can be taken based on findings?

“Regular air quality monitoring is crucial for early detection of environmental risks, enabling timely interventions to protect human health and the environment. Seasonal variations and trends revealed through consistent sampling help guide actions like transitioning to centralized heating, adopting cleaner industrial technologies, and promoting public transport.

Raising public awareness is also key to encouraging eco-friendly behaviors and fostering community-driven changes, which can lead to healthier, more sustainable living environments.”

6. What led you to choose this profession, what education and knowledge did you need to obtain? In that regard, would you have some advice for a young person who is considering to follow your steps?

“I completed my master’s and doctoral studies in the Mineral Processing program at the Faculty of Natural and Technical Sciences, Goce Delchev University. A strong desire for a cleaner and healthier environment motivated me to dedicate myself to this field, and both my theses were closely tied to environmental protection.

In addition to the knowledge I gained through formal university education, I have further expanded my expertise through informal learning opportunities, including training sessions, international mobility programs, and collaborations in this field. Today, alongside my academic responsibilities as a professor, I work at the AMBICON Laboratory, where I am responsible for determining the complete chemical composition of samples, analyzing the data obtained, and modeling it to identify sources of air pollution.

Environmental protection is an interdisciplinary science, requiring the involvement of experts from various fields to achieve meaningful results. If you enjoy working across disciplines and tackling complex real-world problems, environmental engineering offers an intellectually stimulating environment.

For those passionate about protecting the environment, addressing climate change, and contributing to a more sustainable world, studying environmental engineering can be an inspiring and impactful choice.”

This detailed insight from Prof. Dr. Zendelska emphasizes the importance of comprehensive air quality monitoring and tailored solutions in North Macedonia. By leveraging data, addressing key pollution sources, and engaging communities, significant progress can be made in reducing pollution and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

Prof. Dr. Afrodita Zendelska
Associate Professor
Faculty of Natural and Technical Sciences
Goce Delchev University, Shtip, North Macedonia
Expert Collaborator, AMBICON Laboratory