Skopje, 16 December 2024 (MIA) - First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Izet Mexhiti presented the Government’s 2024-2030 Cleaner Air Program at a press conference Monday. He said the Program is more focused on mid-term and long-term solutions.

According to the Minister, the Program includes the reduction of the emission of particles from households, public buildings, industrial processes, transportation, and others. He underscored that it covers the main areas that impact the quality of air – energy, industry, transport, agriculture, and forestry.

“The relevant institutions and the local self-government units are charged with the implementation of the activities included in the program,” Mexhiti said.

Some of the projects included in the program include a project for gas cogeneration power plants, efforts to prevent stubble burning, reducing state emissions and planning future emissions.

Mexhiti noted that the projects from the Program will be implemented gradually.

“At a government session, we adopted soft measures and boosted inspections. Work is already underway on a short-term plan, while the Program is more focused on mid-term and long-term solutions of this issue that has existed for decades. You will be informed about the financial construction of every project, as well as who oversees it and how it will be implemented. The Government will secure 120 electric buses, the carpooling measure aimed at the reduction of vehicles on the streets will be implemented as well. Trees will be planted every two to three days. We have a lot of activities and projects from many institutions and together we will gradually contribute to an improvement of the air quality,” Mexhiti said.

He stressed that this is a joint fight that should lead to an improved life quality for all citizens and requested the support of all stakeholders in order to contribute to cleaner air. 

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