A City Choking: The Overlooked Ecological Crisis of Yerevan

This crisis isn't limited to a single issue; it's a complex, multi-layered problem that threatens the health of its residents and the future of the nation.

A City Breathing Dust and Poison

At first glance, it might seem that cars are the main culprit for Yerevan's air pollution. The number of cars is growing daily, and most of them are old and don't meet modern environmental standards. These vehicles emit large quantities of toxic gases like carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides, creating a dangerous layer over the city. However, the problem is far from limited to vehicle emissions. The dust rising from unpaved roads, construction sites, and un-landscaped areas mixes with these emissions, creating a heavy and dangerous cocktail that we breathe every day.

Meanwhile, the city's green lungs—its parks and gardens—are shrinking year after year. Buildings and shopping centers are replacing them, meaning there are fewer trees to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. The city is losing its natural air purification system, allowing dangerous substances to accumulate in the air. This has serious consequences for our health, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Water Turning to Waste

Although Armenia is rich in water resources, Yerevan faces numerous water-related issues. One of the most significant problems is the old water pipelines, which lead to a massive loss of water. However, an even greater concern is water pollution. Sewage and industrial waste, often without any treatment, are dumped into the Hrazdan River, polluting it and the underground water sources. This pollution is a threat not only to the health of the citizens but also to the river's ecosystem. This, combined with climate change, could lead to a severe water shortage in the future.

The Shadow of the Nuclear Power Plant

The Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant is vital for Armenia's energy security, providing a significant portion of the country's electricity. However, its location in an active seismic zone raises serious concerns. Despite efforts to modernize the plant's safety systems, questions remain on the agenda. This is not just an ecological issue; it is a strategic and security concern that requires constant monitoring and proper control.

The Responsibility of Each of Us

All these issues are interconnected and require complex solutions. The government must develop and implement policies for modernizing public transport, waste sorting, greening programs, and water resource preservation. But equally important is the participation of every citizen. We can start in our own homes by sorting waste, saving water, and using public transport. Change begins with small steps. Only through our combined efforts can we turn Yerevan not only into a historic city but also into a healthy and prosperous place to live.