Malopolska LIFE project once again on the international stage!
On 25 and 26 September 2024, the second edition of the international conference ‘Moving towards clean air for Europe – Second International Conference on Air Pollution’ organised by HungAIRy LIFE took place.
About the conference
The aim of the conference was to exchange experience and present the latest developments aimed at reducing air pollution in Europe. The conference covered topics related to air protection. Participants had the opportunity to learn about current EU air quality legislation, pollution forecasting models, and innovative approaches to monitoring and reducing emissions. Discussions were dominated by issues relating to the implementation of new directives, the role of local authorities in anti-smog activities and the need to involve local communities in environmental improvement processes.
The event brought together specialists, decision-makers and representatives of environmental projects from a number of European countries (including Hungary, Bulgaria, Italy and Slovakia) to discuss strategies, technologies and programmes aimed at improving air quality on our continent.
Experts representing governmental institutions, scientific entities, NGOs and leaders of projects implemented under the LIFE programme, which supports environmental protection activities, gave their presentations.
LIFE IP Małopolska in a healthy atmosphere as a role model
Among the projects presented at the conference, the LIFE project implemented in the Małopolska Region could not be missing. Mr Tomasz Pietrusiak, Deputy Director of the Department of Environment of the Marshal’s Office of the Małopolska Region, presented the effects of the LIFE IP project ‘Implementation of the Air Protection Programme for the Małopolska Region – Małopolska in a healthy atmosphere’, which has been implemented in Małopolska since 2015. This project is one of the most important undertakings in Poland aimed at improving air quality.
The LIFE Integrated Project ‘Malopolska in a Healthy Atmosphere’ has become a model for other regions in Poland as well as other European countries that are struggling with the problem of smog and air pollution. Thanks to comprehensive project activities, including both education and specific technical measures, it has been possible to achieve significant reductions in pollutant emissions and raise environmental awareness among residents. Mr Tomasz Pietrusiak emphasised that the success of the project does not end with its formal conclusion – the results and solutions developed in Małopolska region will be continued and developed in the years to come, which gives hope for further improvements in air quality in the region.
And what’s next!
The event highlighted the need for international cooperation to effectively tackle air pollution, which knows no borders. The conference also showed that it is not only legislation and technology that are key in the fight for clean air, but also education and the involvement of local communities in pro-environmental activities.
