Realizing green Pristina through district heating expansion, green space development and sustainable transportation (XKPRS0002)

Commitment ID

XKPRS0002

Commitment Title

Realizing green Pristina through district heating expansion, green space development and sustainable transportation

Problem

Pristina faces a severe environmental challenge with high levels of air pollution, particularly during winter, caused by heavy traffic, solid fuel heating, and extensive construction. Pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NO2) pose serious health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Traffic congestion further exacerbates pollution and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
To address these issues, the commitment includes expanding the Termokos district heating network to reduce reliance on solid fuels and improve energy efficiency and air quality. A unified public transport ticketing system aims to encourage bus usage, reducing private vehicle reliance and emissions. Additionally, efforts to create and maintain green spaces will enhance urban well-being and environmental sustainability. This commitment tackles air pollution, urban congestion, and public health risks, improving quality of life and fostering long-term sustainability.

Status quo

The environmental pollution in Pristina presents a significant and complex challenge, particularly during the winter season when air pollution reaches its highest levels. The main contributors include heavy vehicle traffic, the widespread use of solid fuels such as wood and coal for heating, and rapid urbanization accompanied by extensive construction activity. Key pollutants, such as PM10, PM2.5, and nitrogen oxides (NO2), are found at alarming levels, making Pristina one of the most polluted cities in the region. These pollutants severely degrade air quality and pose serious health risks for the city’s residents.
A significant factor exacerbating air pollution is the reliance on solid fuels for heating during winter, which releases large amounts of fine particles and harmful gases into the atmosphere. In response, Termokos has initiated the expansion of its district heating network to reduce dependency on these fuels and provide a more sustainable heating source, particularly for collective housing units. This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and gradually improve air quality.
Additionally, green spaces in Pristina remain under pressure from urbanization. The city is actively working to preserve and expand these areas in collaboration with the public enterprise "Gjelbër" and private operators. Green spaces are critical for absorbing carbon, improving air quality, and fostering a more sustainable urban environment.

Action

The commitment focuses on addressing Pristina ’s severe air pollution and environmental challenges by implementing key initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing green infrastructure. A major component is the expansion of the Termokos district heating network, reducing reliance on solid fuels such as wood and coal, which are significant contributors to air pollution during the winter months. This initiative will not only lower greenhouse gas emissions but also provide a more sustainable and affordable heating solution for citizens, improving energy efficiency and air quality.
Another important measure is the expansion and maintenance of green spaces in collaboration with the public enterprise "Gjelbër" and private operators. These spaces, including parks and green corridors, play a critical role in absorbing pollutants, improving urban microclimates, and providing areas for recreation and physical activity. These efforts directly enhance the city’s air quality and contribute to a healthier and greener urban environment.
The commitment also emphasizes promoting sustainable transportation, such as increasing public transport use and encouraging eco-friendly alternatives like cycling and walking. These actions aim to reduce vehicle emissions and mitigate traffic congestion, which are major sources of air pollution.

How will the commitment contribute to solving the public problem described above?

This commitment directly addresses Pristina's critical air pollution and environmental challenges by implementing coordinated measures to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and promote sustainable urban living. One key initiative is the expansion of the Termokos district heating network, which reduces reliance on solid fuels like wood and coal, the primary contributors to air pollution during winter. This initiative will significantly decrease fine particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) and toxic gases (NO2) in the air, while also improving energy efficiency and lowering heating costs for citizens. The outcome will be cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and healthier living conditions for Pristina's residents.
Another important component is the expansion and maintenance of green spaces, which play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide, improving urban microclimates, and creating spaces for recreation and physical activity. This investment will enhance the city’s air quality and foster a more livable and sustainable urban environment.
Additionally, the promotion of sustainable transport solutions, including public transportation and eco-friendly alternatives like cycling and walking, will reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions, further improving air quality.
Expected outputs include reduced air pollution levels, increased green infrastructure, and more efficient and sustainable energy usage.

What long-term goal as identified in your Open Government Strategy does this commitment relate to?

This commitment aligns with the long-term goal identified in Pristina’s Open Government Strategic Vision to transform the city into a green, sustainable, and eco-friendly urban center. By prioritizing clean air, well-maintained green spaces, and sustainable infrastructure, the commitment focuses on addressing environmental challenges through inclusive and collaborative governance.
The emphasis on reducing air pollution, particularly during the winter months, aligns with the strategic vision of improving environmental management and promoting public health. Expanding the district heating network and integrating sustainable public transportation systems directly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and traffic-related pollution, supporting long-term sustainability.
Moreover, the commitment to maintaining and expanding green spaces reflects the vision of creating a healthier and more livable city for all residents. By involving citizens in planning processes and fostering collective action, Pristina seeks to enhance public awareness and accountability, making environmental preservation and sustainability a cornerstone of its open government objectives.

Primary Policy Area

Other/NA

Primary Sector

Environment & Climate, Infrastructure & Transport

What OGP value is this commitment relevant to?