Air pollution in Istanbul increases by 14% in early 2024

In Istanbul, air pollution increased by 14% in the first six months of 2024, compared to the same period in the previous year.

According to the data compiled from air quality measurement stations, the average of nitrogen dioxide, which indicates air pollution in Istanbul, was measured as 35.55 micrograms per cubic meter between Jan. 1 and July 31 2023. This year, this figure was recorded as 40.61 micrograms per cubic meter.

Accordingly, air pollution caused by nitrogen dioxide in Istanbul increased by 14% in the first half of this year compared to the same period of the previous year.

The rise in pollution is attributed to traffic, industrial activities, heating-related pollutants, and meteorological factors.

Experts highlight that traffic is the main source of air pollution. Therefore, unless Istanbul’s traffic issue is resolved, the air pollution problem is expected to persist.

Experts also note an increase in respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD, as well as a rise in lung cancer cases in recent years.