Abstract

Estimation of particulate matter concentrations in selected centres around Shkodra Lake

Author(s): F.Mandija

Lake of Shkodra as the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula forms a relatively complex ecosystem. One of the most important indicators of this ecosystem is also the quality of air. Air quality can be estimated based on several viewpoints, using physical or chemical parameters. In this study, the work is based on estimation of particulate matter concentrations in the air. Particulate matter is one of the most important physical parameters influencing air quality. There are selected three main locations in the measurement campaign; urban center of Shkodra city and the tourist center Shirokë. There are monitored PM-s mass concentrations in these centers, and then there are obtained conclusions about emission sources and transport mechanisms, controlling the concentrations of particulate matter in our study. PMx concentrations in both locations are near the thresholds of international recommendations. This fact signifies the necessity of initiation of more profound studies on reducing of emission rate of particulatematter in the city of Shkodra.