'Come out for clean air' North Macedonia’s capital Skopje, which often ranks among the most polluted cities in Europe, witnessed people taking to the streets, demanding urgent action. (Photo: AP) Second protest in less than a month Carrying banners like "Our air is poison” and “Future cannot be seen from smog,” over thousand people gathered for the second "come out for clean air" protest in less than a month. (Photo: AP) Protests getting louder While the previous marches involved smaller crowds, this time the crowds were notably significant, mobilized with help of several environmental groups and citizens' initiatives.
(Photo: AP) Demands Key demands placed by the protestors to government include better industrial inspection, ecological heating for state facilities, promotion of public transport and cycling, and improved waste management. (Photo: AP) 4000 people die every year Almost 4,000 people die annually in North Macedonia due to exposure, according to reports. (Photo: AP) Premature deaths Air pollution causes 20% of premature deaths in Balkan cities, according to UN.
The protestors and many activists group have called for collective action to deal with this menace. (Photo: AP) Pressing issue in Balkan cities Air pollution shortens life expectancy by up to 1.3 years in the Balkans.
Three Balkans region capitals -- Belgrade, Pristina and Sarajevo are among the 10 most polluted cities in the world. (Photo: AP) 8 reasons to drink Palak ka Juice (Spinach juice) daily.
