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Poor air quality in the EU - particulate matter kills

Green-Zones News

Air pollution is a serious problem that endangers the health of millions of people in the European Union. According to a new study by the European Environment Agency, almost 240,000 Europeans die every year as a result of particulate matter, ozone and nitrogen dioxide in the air. These alarming figures show that air quality in Europe is far from the levels recommended by the World Health Organization.

It is disturbing to learn that most of these deaths could have been avoided if the WHO guidelines had been followed. It is unacceptable that so many people in Europe, especially in cities, continue to suffer from unhealthy air. The EEA warns not only of the direct effects on human health, but also of the negative consequences for ecosystems, which also suffer from air pollution.

It is encouraging that the long-term health impact of air pollutants has improved overall. Between 2005 and 2022, the number of deaths from particulate matter fell by 45%, indicating that the EU is on track to meet its target of reducing the number of deaths by 55% by 2030. Germany even recorded a 53 percent decrease, showing that measures to improve air quality can have a positive impact.

The adoption of new EU directives on air quality is an important step in the right direction. They should further reduce air pollution and bring EU limits closer to WHO standards. It is hoped that these measures will help to protect the health of people in Europe and reduce the negative impact of air pollution on the environment.

Nevertheless, efforts to combat air pollution must be stepped up. Current figures show that, despite some progress, too many people are still exposed to the harmful effects of air pollution. It is time for governments, businesses and citizens to work together to improve air quality and protect public health.