Box 10C Air quality in Moscow

Moscow is a good example of the changing air pollution patterns resulting from current transition in fuel consumption away from oil and coal to natural gas. Emissions of sulphur dioxide and suspended particulate matter (smoke) have dropped drastically in the last few years. However, measurements of ambient sulphur dioxide concentrations are not consistent with emission figures, which may be related to the sensitivity of the measurement methods. Smoke concentrations have decreased considerably in recent years, although mean daily concentrations of smoke still exceed WHO guidelines.

Lead concentrations in air do not exceed WHO guidelines and have decreased since control measures prohibited leaded petrol sales in Moscow. A decrease in carbon monoxide concentrations has been observed between 1975 and 1990. However, carbon monoxide maximum concentrations frequently exceed WHO guidelines. In addition, concentrations of nitrogen oxides have increased significantly between 1986 and 1990 as a result of increased vehicle traffic and power generation.

Source: UNEP/WHO, 1992


Figure 10.4 - Annual mean concentration of smoke, CO and NO2, Moscow, 1980­90