LIFE IP HUNGAIRY

LIFE IP HUNGAIRY

Improving air quality in 8 regions by promoting implementation of air quality plans

LIFE17 IPE/HU/000017

Short summary

The project, which will run for 8 years, aims to tackle one of the most significant environmental problems, air quality, in 10 Hungarian municipalities covering 8 regions. This will be achieved, among other things, by developing emission databases, through comprehensive awareness-raising and information activities, and by setting up a national network of experts and advisors.

Installation of new air pollution monitoring stations

Air quality measurement and assessment in Hungary is carried out by the National Air Pollution Monitoring Network. As part of the project, 1 to 1 new automatic measuring stations will be installed in two partner municipalities – Békéscsaba and Kaposvár – where there was no measuring station belonging to the network until now.

Setting up a network of eco-managers

The aim of the project is to establish a network of eco-managers advising on air quality protection. The experts in the network will help coordinate local projects in their respective municipalities, participate in awareness-raising activities, actively contribute to the development of municipal mobility plans and workplace transport plans, and facilitate the successful submission of applications for national and EU funding for air quality improvement by municipalities and residents.

Promoting environmentally friendly modes of transport

To reduce air pollution caused by transport, the project will launch various awareness-raising actions and local pilot actions, including the development of a community bicycle system and smart urban transport systems.

Development of a decision support air quality modelling tool

As part of the project, a spatial data base and a high-resolution air quality modelling tool will be developed to support the biennial review of municipal air quality plans. The decision-support system will allow the impact of different measures to be estimated and identify key areas where effective action is needed.

Shaping attitudes and raising awareness

The municipalities participating in the project will launch awareness-raising campaigns aimed at disseminating measures to improve air quality in their municipalities. Key elements of these will be the promotion of good solid fuel combustion techniques, environmentally friendly combustion methods and environmentally friendly transport methods.

Reducing emissions from residential sources

To reduce air pollution caused by inappropriate residential combustion, the project will include comprehensive awareness-raising actions and local pilot actions, such as promoting and publicising district heating, composting, optimising solid fuel supply and improving green spaces in city centres.

Use of environmentally friendly agricultural technologies

The project will also collect good practices to reduce air pollution from agricultural sources and support training for farmers and the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies.