Georgia is strengthening its fight against air pollution with ten modern monitoring stations that provide real-time data on air quality and pollution sources. Supported by the European Union and the United Nations in partnership with Georgia’s National Environmental Agency, the expanding network will help protect public health, guide environmental policy, and improve access to reliable air quality information across the country.

Five stations are already operating in Rustavi, Poti, Zestaponi, Zemo Sakara, and Ozurgeti, while five more will be installed in Bolnisi, Gori, Sighnaghi, Borjomi, and Chiatura by the end of 2026.

Using modern technology, the stations measure various types of air pollution, including fine dust particles (PM2.5), traffic and fuel combustion emissions (NO₂), industrial emissions (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO) produced by incomplete fuel combustion.

This detailed monitoring measures air quality at a specific location and time while also providing real-time information about pollution sources.

On 29 May, representatives of the European Union, UNDP, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Environmental Agency visited one of the monitoring stations installed at the public school in the village of Tazaqendi near Rustavi.

The guests observed how the monitoring stations operate and discussed future steps to expand the network and improve public access to air quality data.

“The European Union strengthens Georgia’s ability to monitor pollution, identify its sources, and protect communities, especially in high-risk areas. Cleaner air means healthier people, lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life for everyone,” said Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Georgia.

“Reliable air quality data is essential for effective action. These monitoring stations provide real-time information on pollution levels and help identify where pollution is coming from, whether from traffic, industry, heating, or dust. The data informs decisions that protect people’s health and the environment,” noted Douglas Webb, UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia. 

“Over the past decade, Georgia has expanded and modernised its air quality monitoring network in line with national legislation and international standards. Our priority is to strengthen air quality management across the country through better data, targeted action, and greater public awareness, ultimately creating a healthier environment for all citizens,” said Tamar Sharashidze, First Deputy Head of the National Environmental Agency.

The visit concluded at Tazaqendi Public School, where guests met with teachers and students to discuss how environmental education and hands-on experience equip young people with the knowledge and skills to shape a more sustainable and greener future.

The EU and UN support for expanding Georgia’s air quality monitoring network is part of the broader EU-funded initiative, Air Quality for Better Citizens’ Health, implemented jointly by UNDP, WHO, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the Environment Agency Austria (UBA).

Air Quality in Georgia

Globally, air pollution causes an estimated economic loss of around US$8.1 trillion each year, equivalent to approximately 6% of global GDP. These losses reflect the combined impact of increased healthcare costs, reduced labour productivity, and lower life expectancy.

In Georgia, the 2025 Air Quality Index (AQI) averaged around 66, placing the country 56th globally. While overall air quality is generally acceptable, levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) remain concerning, at approximately 3.4 times higher than the WHO’s recommended annual guidelines.

World Bank studies conducted in 2020 and 2025 highlight the significant health, social, and economic impacts of air pollution in Georgia. In 2018 alone, air pollution was estimated to cost the country around US$560 million in healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. The burden falls on vulnerable groups, including people with chronic health conditions and other disadvantaged populations.

About the European Union

For more than 30 years, the European Union has built a close partnership with Georgia, supporting its development through knowledge, experience sharing, expertise, innovation, and financial aid. The relationship between the EU and the people of Georgia is based on shared values of peace, freedom, democracy, human rights, and inclusive economic growth. Learn more about the EU’s support for Georgia. 

About the Air Quality Project

Air Quality for Better Citizens’ Health is a joint United Nations programme funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP, WHO, UNECE, and UBA. The initiative supports Georgia in strengthening its capacity to monitor and analyse air quality and regulate major sources of pollution, including industrial emissions. The programme contributes to more effective environmental governance and evidence-based policymaking, helping improve public health and advance cleaner air for all.

Media Contacts

• Sophie Tchitchinadze, UNDP, +995 599 196907, sophie.tchitchinadze@undp.org
• Ira Sulava, UNDP, +995 599 579105, irine.sulava@undp.org
• Tamar Mikadze, European Union Delegation to Georgia, +995 32 2364364, tamriko.mikadze@eeas.europa.eu