Emissions of SO2 from coal burning power plants and heavy metals from metalworking facilities were cited as having especially dangerous impacts on human health. Automobile exhaust was also mentioned as a serious and growing problem, particularly in the city of Skopje. The city of Titov Veles was also mentioned as a hot spot because of the huge industrial facility located on its upwind edge. In city centers, emissions from low stacks, and the increasing use of automobiles are reducing the quality of life. Poor land-use planning, leads to industrial facilities being located in the middle of residential areas.
Noise pollution is another a serious issue in urban areas.
There is also the effect of 'landscape pollution' in the form of huge, ugly housing blocks, which separate inhabitants from the earth. Some areas of Romania have remained largely free from pollution and the country contains many areas of great natural value. Substantial forest areas exist, and the diversity of flora and fauna is considerable. Some areas of special natural value already have protected status, with 12 National Parks having been declared The Danube River Delta, Europe's largest wetland, is another special area. In recognition of this, a Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve was established.