LONGITUDINAL AND VERTICAL PROFILE OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION MONITORING OF THE POLOG VALLEY, SHAR MOUNTAIN AND MALI I THATË
Nexhbedin BEADINI, Vladimir KRPAҪ, Gjoshe STEVKOV, Bardhyl LIMANI, Emel HASANI, Blandi LOKAJ, Yll RACI, Dielli ZHAVELI
Abstract
Introduction: The Polog Valley, situated at 380–550m above sea level between the Sharr Mountains and Mali i Thatë, is a low-lying plain prone to thermal inversion during winter. This occurs when cold air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing normal air circulation. As a result, pollutants such as PM0.6, PM2.5, and PM10 accumulate, posing serious health risks. The Sharr Mountains (2794m) and Mali i Thatë (2287m) geographically enclose the valley, worsening the inversion effect, particularly from December to February. This leads to increased respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological illnesses, especially in the elderly, infants, and middle-aged individuals, with significant social and economic costs.
Aim of the Study: This study aims to monitor environmental pollution across the Polog Valley, Sharr Mountains, and Mali i Thatë during winter. It examines how thermal inversion affects human, plant, and animal health. Pollutant impact will be assessed using chicken and quail egg samples, with previous tests showing adverse effects on embryonic development.
Materials and Methods: Forty chicken and forty quail egg samples will be exposed to environmental pollutants in a controlled setting. Pollutants, prepared in 50ml vials, will be administered in 100µL doses for quail and 200µL for chicken eggs at various developmental stages. Samples will be incubated and analyzed using a magnifying glass, Nikon SMZ 1500 stereomicroscope, and Kozo FL 666 fluorescent microscope. The study will be conducted at the Scientific Research Laboratory of the Faculty of Forestry and the Ecological and Technological Institute University of Tetova.
Results: The research will provide data on environmental pollution in the vertical and longitudinal profiles of the study area. Findings will offer reliable indicators for ongoing environmental monitoring.
Conclusion: The study will highlight the extent of environmental pollution in the Polog Valley, Sharr Mountains, and Mali i Thatë. It will offer evidence-based recommendations for addressing pollution and mitigating its health and ecological impacts.
Pages: 41 - 54