The measures that need to be taken are classified into several groups:

Administrative and regulatory measures – the existence and implementation of laws and bylaws regulating this issue, ranging from setting limit values for pollutants to establishing and maintaining a monitoring system. The national legislation of the Republic of North Macedonia is largely harmonized with European legislation; what remains is the consistent implementation of the adopted provisions and obligations.

Urban planning measures – appropriate spatial planning and land use through the establishment and maintenance of new urban green areas, control of construction activities, construction of bypass roads and diversion of traffic outside urban areas, maintenance of communal cleanliness, and provision of infrastructure to promote greater use of cycling and walking.

Promotion of public transport and other modes of transport – introduction of trolleybuses, trams, or urban rail systems where feasible, use of hybrid vehicles for public transport, stimulation of bicycle traffic, and discouragement of car use.

Industrial and technical-technological measures – consistent enforcement of the provisions in A and B integrated environmental permits for industrial installations, improvement of inspection control, introduction of improved combustion technologies in installations, and application of modern technologies for the purification of emission gases and particulate matter.

Economic measures – provision of funds from central and local authorities for the implementation of energy efficiency measures (new windows, more efficient heating appliances, solar thermal collector systems), purchase of bicycles, inverter air conditioners, investments in better public transport, and similar actions.

Household measures – promotion of renewable energy sources and encouragement of energy efficiency in households, purchase of more environmentally friendly fuels such as pellets, encouragement of chimney cleaning, and proper disposal of solid waste.

Public information – ensuring public access to information through the Ministry of environment and physical planning portal, the websites of the Institute of public health with recommendations for population protection during air pollution episodes, websites of other stakeholders (ministries, local governments), social media, and other channels.

Raising public awareness – brochures aimed at increasing public awareness and understanding of the effects of air pollution, advice on protection from polluted air, good practices for domestic wood burning, mobility solutions, and ways to improve quality of life.

Individual measures – reducing car use in favor of public transport, cycling, or walking; saving energy at home, at work, and everywhere; monitoring the Air Quality Index and following appropriate health recommendations on days with poor air quality.

Recommendations to the Population When the Air Quality Index Is “Poor”

• Before going outside, always check the Air Quality Index;
• Stay at home if you do not need to go out;
• Avoid staying outdoors and outdoor activities (sports, recreation). This applies not only to sensitive groups, but also to children and young people who spend more time outdoors, as well as people who work outdoors professionally;
• Wear a protective mask with proven effectiveness when outdoors;
• Stay at home or reduce physical exertion, especially outdoors, particularly if you experience symptoms such as coughing or sore throat;
• Do not open windows in your home when the air is polluted;
• Use an air purifier at home or at the workplace (especially for highly sensitive individuals such as those with asthma, chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, young children, and pregnant women);
• Adults and children with lung conditions, adults with heart disease, and older people should avoid strenuous physical activity;
• Pregnant women should stay at home;
• People with asthma may need to use their inhaler more frequently. If you must go outside, wear masks with proven effectiveness;
• People with chronic illnesses should take their therapy regularly and, if necessary, contact their general practitioner or go to a hospital immediately if they experience symptoms;
• Consume food rich in vitamins (antioxidants – vitamins A, C, and E);
• Consult your doctor. Visit your general practitioner or a health clinic if you feel unwell or experience any negative effects from air pollution.