In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Advances in Environmental Research*, researchers have uncovered stark disparities in road-traffic emissions across six major cities in Lithuania, shedding light on a critical public health concern in Eastern Europe. The study, led by Simonas Kecorius of the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology in Vilnius, Lithuania, and the Helmholtz Zentrum München in Germany, provides the first detailed analysis of ultrafine particle (UFP) and equivalent black carbon (eBC) emissions from road traffic in the region.
Using a custom mobile laboratory, Kecorius and his team captured real-world emissions data during the summer of 2024, revealing significant variations in air pollution levels. Panevėžys and Vilnius emerged as the most polluted cities, with eBC levels reaching 10,400 ng/m³ and 10,200 ng/m³, respectively. Panevėžys also recorded the highest UFP concentration at 97,800 particles/cm³. “The aging vehicle fleets and the prevalence of diesel vehicles, particularly in Panevėžys, are major contributors to these high emission levels,” Kecorius explained.
The study employed an adapted Operational Street Pollution Model (OSPM) to calculate emission factors, highlighting that light-duty vehicles in Vilnius were the leading source of particle number emissions, with 8.90 × 10¹⁴ particles/(km·veh). This is likely due to the widespread use of gasoline direct injection engines. Meanwhile, Panevėžys dominated eBC emissions with 150 mg/(km·veh). Heavy-duty vehicles, including buses and trucks, were found to emit up to five times more pollutants than their light-duty counterparts, underscoring their significant impact on urban air quality.
The findings are particularly relevant for the energy sector, as they underscore the need for targeted interventions to reduce vehicular emissions. “This research provides policymakers with precise and actionable insights for implementing strategies such as fleet upgrades or the establishment of low-emission zones,” Kecorius noted. By addressing a critical knowledge gap, the study empowers the scientific community and public health advocates to devise strategies that combat vehicle-related pollution and foster healthier urban environments.
The implications of this research extend beyond Lithuania, offering valuable insights for other regions grappling with similar air quality challenges. As cities worldwide strive to meet stricter environmental regulations, the study’s findings could shape future developments in urban planning, transportation policies, and emission control technologies. By highlighting the commercial impacts of vehicular emissions, the research also underscores the need for innovative solutions that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
In the broader context, this study serves as a call to action for the energy sector to invest in cleaner technologies and infrastructure. As Kecorius and his team continue to explore the dynamics of urban air pollution, their work will undoubtedly contribute to the global effort to reduce harmful emissions and improve public health outcomes.