Air pollution in the urban built environment: A comprehensive evaluation

Citations

Elisavet Tsekeri, Aikaterini Lilli, Mihalis Lazaridis, Dionysia Kolokotsa, Air pollution in the urban built environment: A comprehensive evaluation, Atmospheric Pollution Research, 2025, 102797, ISSN 1309-1042, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apr.2025.102797.

Abstract

This study assesses air pollution levels in the city of Chania, Greece, utilizing a combination of bike-mounted sensors and stationary monitoring stations to analyze the spatial and temporal variability of microclimate conditions and key pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, and NO2. The data analysis reveals significant seasonal variations in air pollution levels, with concentrations peaking during winter, primarily due to increased emissions from heating-related combustion and reduced atmospheric dispersion. In contrast, summer months exhibit lower pollution levels, as favorable meteorological conditions enhance pollutant dispersion. In spring, periodic dust episodes contribute to elevated PM concentrations, further influencing seasonal air quality patterns. Weekday pollution levels are generally higher than those on weekends, primarily due to traffic emissions and daily commuting patterns. However, in spring and summer, this trend becomes less consistent, as increased leisure activities and tourism-related transport led to elevated pollutant concentrations on certain weekends. Spatially, the highest pollution concentrations are observed in the city center, where dense traffic and urban structures contribute to pollutant accumulation. Conversely, coastal areas record lower pollution levels, benefiting from natural ventilation and reduced vehicular activity. These findings underscore the need for integrated air quality assessments in urban planning and policy development. Strengthening public transportation networks, enforcing emission control measures, expanding urban green infrastructure, and enhancing real-time air quality monitoring are recommended strategies to mitigate air pollution. By implementing these measures, cities can enhance air quality, public health, and environmental resilience, fostering more sustainable and equitable urban development.