Polish Cities Can Learn From Spain's Success in Reducing Air Pollution, Says Kapsch TrafficCom

Polish cities can learn from Spain's efforts to combat air pollution, Kapsch TrafficCom highlights. With nearly 25,000 premature deaths in the country's eastern regions attributed to poor air quality in the past decade, immediate action is needed. Traffic, particularly vehicles, is a significant contributor to urban pollution. Although Poland has no city meeting WHO air quality standards, Spain has successfully implemented clean air zones (CAZ), reducing CO2 emissions by 20% in London and 18% in Milan. In Seville, AI-driven management of traffic is key, enhancing efficiency and addressing environmental challenges.

As the air in Polish cities continues to pose a significant threat to public health, with nearly 25,000 premature deaths in the eastern regions attributed to poor air quality over the past decade [1], the need for immediate action has become increasingly apparent. Traffic, particularly vehicles, is a considerable contributor to urban pollution [2]. Poland currently has no city that meets the World Health Organization's (WHO) air quality standards [3]. However, Spain provides a compelling example of successful initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution.

One key strategy Spain has employed is the implementation of clean air zones (CAZ), which have proven effective in reducing CO2 emissions. In London, CAZ resulted in a 20% decrease in CO2 emissions, while Milan experienced an 18% reduction [2]. The success of CAZ lies in their targeted approach to regulating vehicle access in specific areas, leading to improved air quality.

Another innovative approach adopted by Spain is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to manage traffic, particularly in Seville. AI-driven traffic management enhances efficiency and addresses environmental challenges by optimizing traffic flow, reducing congestion, and minimizing idling [4]. By leveraging advanced technologies, Spanish cities have effectively balanced economic growth with environmental concerns.

While Poland faces unique challenges in addressing air pollution, the successful Spanish initiatives offer valuable insights. The LeadAir initiative, a collaborative platform for Polish cities to share knowledge and lessons from their efforts to tackle air pollution [1], serves as a promising model for replicating these successes. By working together and drawing inspiration from Spanish solutions, Polish cities can take significant strides in improving air quality and protecting public health.

References:
[1] Clean Air Fund. Polish Cities Come Together to Tackle Dirty Air. https://www.cleanairfund.org/case-study/polish-cities-come-together-to-tackle-dirty-air/
[2] Kapsch TrafficCom. Polish Cities Can Learn from Spain's Efforts to Combat Air Pollution. https://www.kapschtraffic.com/en/newsroom/news/polish-cities-can-learn-from-spains-efforts-to-combat-air-pollution/
[3] European Environment Agency. Air quality in Europe – 2021 report. https://www.eea.europa.eu/publication/air-quality-in-europe-2021
[4] City of Seville. Intelligent Mobility in Seville. https://www.seville.org/en/transport/intelligent-mobility/