Kraków’s clean air policy featured in European case study
Kraków’s efforts to improve air quality have received international recognition. The city has been selected as a case study by the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), a leading Brussels-based think tank specialising in environmental and sustainability policies.
The publication examines the implementation and impacts of Kraków’s Anti-Smog Resolution, which introduced a ban on the use of solid fuels for heating and entered into force in 2019. According to the authors, Kraków represents a notable example of successful air quality improvement achieved through close cooperation between local authorities, residents, non-governmental organisations and the scientific community.
The study highlights the city’s comprehensive approach, combining regulatory measures with extensive financial support programmes that helped residents replace outdated heating systems. By 2019, more than 25,000 solid-fuel heating devices had been replaced. The report notes significant improvements in air quality indicators, including a substantial reduction in PM2.5 concentrations and the number of days with excessive particulate pollution.
The authors identify several key factors behind Kraków’s success, including stakeholder engagement, evidence-based policymaking, effective communication and the mobilisation of national and European funding. The case study is presented as an example from which other European cities can draw valuable lessons when designing measures to improve air quality and support a just transition.
You can find a full text of Kraków case study here.
