New air quality directive: stricter limits to reduce pollution

Air pollution: a problem that affects everyone

Air pollution is a major environmental issue that occurs when the atmosphere becomes contaminated with harmful substances that can cause harm to human health, such as respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases, as well as negative impacts on the environment, such as soil and water acidification, and damage to ecosystems.

Global, national, and local actions are needed to address this problem, including policies to reduce emissions, promote clean and sustainable energy sources, improve fuel quality, and encourage more efficient and low-emission transportation.

The adoption of sustainable technologies and practices, along with a collective effort to reduce air pollution, is critical to protecting human health and preserving the environment for future generations.

Air pollution causes about 300,000 premature deaths per year in the EU.

One goal for the welfare of society

The review aims to reduce air pollution for a clean and healthy environment for citizens and to achieve zero air pollution in 2050.

The European Parliament recently finally adopted a provisional political agreement with EU governments on new measures to improve EU air quality and eliminate damage to human health, natural ecosystems and biodiversity, with 381 votes in favor, 225 against and 17 abstentions.

The directive sets stricter limits and targets for 2030 for pollutants with serious impacts on human health, including particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10).

In the event of a violation of the new national rules implementing the directive, people affected by air pollution will be able to take legal action and receive compensation if their health has been harmed.

The law must now be formally adopted by the Council before being published in the EU Official Journal and entering into force 20 days later. EU countries will then have two years to implement the new rules.

“By updating air quality standards, some of which were established nearly two decades ago, pollution will be cut in half across the EU, paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future. Thanks to Parliament, the updated standards improve air quality monitoring and more effectively protect vulnerable groups. Today’s is a significant victory in our ongoing efforts to ensure a safer and cleaner environment for all European citizens.” [Javi Lòpez, MEP and rapporteur for the measure].