Changes in air quality in Poland in 2020 in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: spatial and seasonal analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2019, compelled governments worldwide to implement various measures to limit the spread of the virus, including restrictions on mobility and economic activity. These restrictions directly impacted air pollutant emissions, typically linked to heavy road traffic, industry, air transport, and other forms of human activity. In Poland, as in many other countries, a notable change in air quality was observed in 2020, which became the focus of numerous studies. This article analysed the impact of the pandemic on air pollution in Poland in 2020, comparing data from this period with that of the previous year, 2019. The study was based on data from the General Inspectorate for Environmental Protection (GIOŚ), which included measurements of the concentrations of particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and benzo(a)pyrene. The analysis results indicated an evident reduction in pollutant concentrations in 2020 compared to 2019. This decrease was especially noticeable during lockdowns, when transport, industry, and other emission sources faced restrictions. The pollution reduction was most pronounced in urban areas, where transport and economic activity were most concentrated. Another important element of the study was spatial differentiation, which considered differences in pollution levels between large cities and rural areas. It is also worth noting that the pandemic's impact on air quality was seasonal, resulting from meteorological conditions such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed. These conditions were crucial for the spread of pollutants and their concentration in different parts of the year. In addition, the article emphasises the role of transport, especially road transport, in pollutant emissions, indicating the impact that reducing the number of vehicles on the roads had on improving air quality. Findings highlight the substantial impact of reduced human activity on air pollutant levels during pandemic restrictions. However, it also draws attention to the need for further actions to improve air quality in the long term. The conclusions from this study can provide a basis for developing more effective environmental policies that consider both health and ecological aspects of air pollutant emissions.