Expansion of the Municipal Air Quality Monitoring Network and Low-Emission Zones Efficiency Assessment
Status: Ongoing projects
A comprehensive air quality monitoring network operates in Riga, providing a broader and more detailed dataset on urban air pollution levels. Before the project, air quality monitoring was limited to only a few stations, which did not offer a complete picture of pollution distribution and variations across different areas. By expanding the system with additional sensors, Riga now has a more accurate assessment of air quality in various city locations, including low-emission zones (ZEZ), where measures are implemented to reduce pollution.
The significance of the project for Riga
Air pollution poses a significant challenge, affecting both public health and quality of life. While Riga’s overall air quality is relatively good, certain areas—especially those with high traffic intensity—can exceed regulatory pollution limits. The European Union has set strict climate and air quality targets, requiring a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and air pollution, including the promotion of low-emission zones in cities. To effectively assess the impact of ZEZ on air quality and ensure data-driven decision-making, an expanded network of sensors is necessary to measure pollutant concentrations over a broader urban area.
Target of the project
The project installs air quality sensor stations and meteorological sensor stations in Riga to:
Monitor real-time air pollution levels and collect data on PM2.5 and PM10 particle concentrations, as well as other pollutants.
Evaluate the effectiveness of ZEZ, analyzing pollution level changes before and after ZEZ implementation.
Enhance and expand the existing municipal air quality monitoring system.
Integrate meteorological data to improve the accuracy of air quality measurements.
Provide better and more up-to-date air quality information to the public.
Benefits for citizens
Real-time air quality data – Residents gain access to accurate air pollution levels in their area, helping them make informed decisions about outdoor activities and daily commutes.
Better pollution source identification – More precise data allows the municipality to implement targeted measures to improve air quality, reducing health risks and enhancing the urban environment.
Long-term improvements in mobility and urban planning – The collected data supports more effective transport and urban planning, leading to less congestion, cleaner air, and a healthier city for all residents.
Project activities
Deployment of new sensors – Installation of air quality and meteorological sensor stations across the city.
Data integration and analysis – Collecting, processing, and analyzing pollution data to support data-driven decision-making.
ZEZ efficiency assessment – Evaluating pollution level changes before and after ZEZ implementation.
Data visualization and public access – Real-time air quality data is made available on the Riga Municipality’s digital platform.
Long-term monitoring – Data collection over at least 24 months to ensure a sufficient dataset for future analysis.
Project results
Expanded air monitoring network – air quality and meteorological sensor stations installed in Riga.
Improved data accessibility – Air pollution and meteorological data are made publicly available on the Riga Municipality’s platform.
Detailed ZEZ impact analysis, providing objective data for both the municipality and residents.
Enhanced urban and mobility planning, based on accurate pollution data.
Funding, duration, and partners
Funding source: Riga Environmental Protection Fund
Total project budget: € 70 390 (including VAT) (100% funded by the Environmental Protection Fund)
Duration: 2024 – 2026
Project partners: Riga Digital Agency, Riga City Housing and Environment Department
Contact information
Edgars Indriksons
Head of Data Analytics Department
Riga Digital Agency
+371 67181347
edgars.indriksons@riga.lv
