Day 1 (09.10.2025) – How Cars Pollute the Air
Location: Kolev Driving School
As part of the AirQuest – Know What You Breathe: Mobilising Communities for Air Quality in the Black Sea Basin project, this first lecture helped driver-candidates and instructors to understand the many ways by which vehicles affect air quality.
Key content of the lecture
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When fuel (petrol, diesel or gas) burns in a vehicle engine, a number of pollutants are released: including CO₂ (carbon dioxide) — a greenhouse gas contributing to climate change; NOₓ (nitrogen oxides), irritants to the respiratory system and precursors to smog; CO (carbon monoxide), which is toxic when inhaled; HC (unburnt hydrocarbons), contributing to photochemical smog; and PM₂.₅ / PM₁₀ (fine particulate matter) which penetrate deeply into lungs and bloodstream.
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The lecture emphasised that pollution is not only from the exhaust: tyre wear, brake wear and road surface wear also emit micro-particles and micro-plastics that pollute air and water.
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Using real-life driving examples and up‐to‐date statistical data, participants discussed how driving habits and maintenance affect these emissions.
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A short quiz at the end demonstrated a high level of engagement and comprehension.
Why it matters
According to studies, road vehicles (cars, trucks, buses) contribute a major share of NOₓ and PM emissions in urban areas, and exposure to these pollutants is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. By helping young drivers to become aware of how their vehicle behaviour influences emissions, we contribute to better air quality in the region.
