Air Pollution and Health Effects in Developing Countries, Case Study: Serbia

The primary driver of atmospheric pollution is humanity's demand for energy. Consequently, traffic and industry—particularly the energy sector—are considered the dominant sources of air pollution. Intensive motorized traffic significantly contributes to increased vehicular emissions, negatively impacting the atmosphere and all the environment. A range of negative effects of air pollution is observed, particularly in the urban environment, where one of the most considerable is the impact on human health. Air pollution affects all living organisms, leading to various health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, allergic reactions, and even death. Due to urbanization, the prevalence of respiratory conditions, such as allergic asthma, chronic obstructive bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is increasing. Literature data shows that the emission of air pollutants (e.g. particulate matter, sulfur or nitrogen oxides) in developing countries, like Serbia, is higher than in industrialized ones. The study deals with the analysis of the health data and air pollutants emission data related to the energy sector and road traffic in Serbia, establishing the dynamic change trend in the period 2012-2022. Trend change dynamics were followed for the main air pollutants like black carbon, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, Sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ammonia, and non-methane volatile organic compounds. The analysis showed the positive trend changes in the dominant air pollutants emission relevant for the observed industry sectors, during the 11 years. The emission rate of NO<sub>2</sub> from road transport in the period 2012 - 2022 shows a positive trend of change, and the share of NO<sub>2</sub> in total emission increased from 19.87% to 41.06%. Also, share of black carbon and various particulate matter in total national emission increased. Regarding the coal-power plant as a dominant energy source and a primary source of SO<sub>2</sub> emissions in Serbia, its emission rate fluctuated during the observed period. Nevertheless, its contribution to the total national emissions increased from 90.30% in 2012 to 95.56% in 2022. Regarding the results, future monitoring of the air pollutants emission level and implementing measures to improve the air quality in Serbia should be of high importance. Therefore, investment towards green transition and traffic planning, including the number and types of vehicles within urban areas, as a critical factor in mitigating air pollution levels, should be a priority. Furthermore, policies related to reducing air pollution emission from diverse sources should be harmonized with the European Union's regulatory framework to ensure alignment with empirical outcomes.