Riga City Council has approved a new action programme aimed at improving air quality throughout the city for the period of 2026-2030.
Ambient Air Quality Concerns
The decision comes despite reported gradual improvements in air quality within the Latvian capital between 2020 and 2024. Monitoring data still indicates that standards and upper assessment thresholds for several pollutants were exceeded during that period.
The new programme is designed to prepare Riga for stricter air quality requirements outlined in Directive (EU) 2024/2881 of the European Parliament and of the Council. Member states are required to incorporate these requirements into national legislation by December 11, 2026, and ensure compliance with new limit values by January 1, 2030.
Currently, monitoring data suggests Riga does not yet meet these new criteria, necessitating targeted measures to address air pollution.
The action programme is designed as a long-term instrument to enable Riga to achieve the air quality targets set by the European Union and ensure a healthier living environment for the city’s residents
The programme, developed by SIA “Estonian, Latvian & Lithuanian Environment” at the request of the Riga Municipality Housing and Environment Department, will focus on reducing emissions of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, benzene, and benzo(a)pyrene – all pollutants that have exceeded established standards at Riga’s air quality monitoring stations over the past five years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeframe for this air quality programme?
The Riga City Air Quality Improvement Action programme covers the period from 2026 to 2030.
Why is a new programme needed if air quality is improving?
While air quality is gradually improving, exceedances of pollutant standards were still recorded in Riga between 2020 and 2024, and the city currently does not meet the new criteria set by Directive (EU) 2024/2881.
Which pollutants will this programme target?
The programme will focus on reducing emissions of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, benzene, and benzo(a)pyrene.
As Riga moves forward with this plan, it remains to be seen how effectively these measures will address air quality concerns and contribute to a healthier environment for its residents.
