Data collection was carried out using citizen monitoring sensors, and these are not official, representatives of the organization clarified, emphasizing that the information is provided solely for educational purposes.
In Bishkek, the concentration level of fine particulate matter PM2.5 exceeded permissible norms for approximately 118–120 days a year. The highest level was recorded on December 24, 2024, at 367 µg/m³, which is more than 11 times the established government limit of 35 µg/m³. The annual average concentration ranged from 44 to 47 µg/m³, significantly exceeding the World Health Organization's recommended level of 5 µg/m³.
Air pollution varied by season, with the highest levels occurring during the heating season. The concentration of particles peaked in the evening, mainly around 7 PM, which, according to the report's authors, is linked to the active heating of private homes and emissions from vehicles.
As for Osh, out of 336 days with collected data, the norm was exceeded for 159 days. Unlike Bishkek, pollution was also recorded in the warm season. The annual average concentration of PM2.5 was about 74 µg/m³, which is 15 times higher than the WHO recommended level.
The main source of pollution in the winter period was the burning of solid fuels for heating, particularly coal with high sulfur content in the private sector of Bishkek. Throughout the year, significant impacts on air quality come from motor vehicles.
Among the proposed measures are the expansion of the monitoring network, transition to energy-efficient heating systems, development of public transport and greening of the area, as well as improving the regulatory framework for air quality management.
