This reduction was observed over the eight-day event held in Rwanda. To monitor air quality during the championship, REMA set up 10 stations across different parts of Kigali to monitor air pollution levels, particularly focusing on both closed and open roads.
These stations were located in areas such as Gacuriro, Rusororo, Mont Kigali, Gikondo, Nyarutarama, Kibagabaga, Kimironko, Nyabugogo, and Kimihurura.
REMA's analysis revealed that temporarily closing major roads improved air quality significantly.
The report shows that Particulate Matter (PM2.5) levelsâ€" fine particles in the air, measured in micrograms per cubic meter were measured.
Because they are so small, when inhaled, they quickly enter the lungs and even the bloodstream, causing various health problems such as coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, lung diseases, heart problems, stroke, and even cancer.
The primary sources of these pollutants include vehicle emissions, especially those using gasoline and diesel, burning coal, industrial smoke, and other pollutants. These fine particles have been linked to numerous short and long-term health problems, including the potential harm to unborn children.
Meanwhile, alternative routes used during the event had less traffic and were not regularly used, leading to a reduction in air pollution by 30% - 35%. On the roads that were not affected by the race, no significant change in pollution levels was observed.
Juliet Kabera, the Director General of REMA, emphasized that the findings show that reducing pollution has a direct impact on improving the air quality that people breathe.
The WHO recommends that the annual average concentration of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) should not exceed 10 micrograms per cubic meter of air, and for a 24-hour period, it should not exceed 25 micrograms per cubic meter.
'These findings are a clear demonstration of how reduced traffic emissions directly improve the air we breathe,' said Juliet Kabera, Director General of REMA.
'During the UCI Championships, the air quality in Kigali was moderate, which is acceptable for the general public according to WHO [World Health Organization] air quality guidelines. This should inspire all of us to properly maintain our vehicles, and to embrace more sustainable transport choices such as using public transport, cycling, walking, and avoiding unnecessary car trips whenever possible. Cleaner air is within our reach if we make conscious decisions in our daily lives,' she added.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Environment, through REMA, introduced enhanced vehicle emissions testing, underscoring Rwanda's commitment to cleaner air, improved public health, and sustainable development.
REMA notes that the positive results during the championships underscore the importance of sustainable urban mobility.
In addition to the air quality monitoring stations located in Kigali, REMA operates stations across Rwanda, and citizens are encouraged to follow real-time updates on aq.rema.gov.rw to stay informed about the air they breathe and make healthier choices.
IGIHE
