In Europe, people and nature suffer from bad air: the european Environment Agency reports that hundreds of thousands of deaths are still caused by air pollution. Three-quarters of ecosystems are also stressed. But ther is a positive trend.
It is estimated that around 239,000 or more deaths per year in the EU can be attributed to excessive levels of particulate matter in the air. The European Environment Agency said that in 2022, 70,000 deaths will be attributed to exposure to ozone and 48,000 to nitrogen dioxide EEA in a new relationship.
The new data confirmed once again that people in Europe faced concentrations of air pollutants well above the levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Copenhagen-based EU agency wrote. These deaths could have been avoided by following WHO guidelines.
EEA experts also warned of the consequences of poor air quality for EuropeS ecosystems. According to another Environment Agency assessment, almost three-quarters of these ecosystems are exposed to harmful levels of air pollution.
Furthermore, around a third of agricultural land in Europe was exposed to ground-level ozone concentrations above the threshold set by EU vegetation protection rules. According to the report, this has led to crop damage, lower yields and economic losses estimated at at least two billion euros.
Ozone damages plants by reducing growth rates, so the gas affects forests, reduces crop yields and affects biodiversity. in 2022, 62% of the total forest area in the 32 EU Member States exceeded critical levels set to protect forests from ozone.
Too many people in Europe, especially in cities, are still affected by poor air quality, leading to illness and premature deaths, warned EEA Executive Director Leena Ylä-Mononen. The fact that air pollution also has far-reaching negative consequences for ecosystems makes it even more meaningful to redouble efforts to achieve cleaner air.
However, the EEA also sees positive aspects from the latest data: these would confirm the trend regarding the long-term health impact caused by fine particles (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone. (O3) is improving the authority said.
Between 2005 and 2022, the number of deaths in the EU attributable to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) decreased by 45%. This means that the European Union remains on track to reach the goal of reducing this number by 55% by 2030 compared to 2005.
In Germany According to the EEA,the decline from 2005 to 2022 was 53%. In 2022,approximately 32,600 deaths could be attributed to fine dust pollution.
The publication of the new EEA data coincides with the entry into force new EU directives together to further improve air quality in Europe. The regulations bring EU limits closer to WHO standards and are thus expected to further reduce the health effects of air pollution in coming years.
dpa/sk
How can individuals help reduce air pollution in their local communities?
Time.news Editor: Good day, and thank you for joining us. Today, we have a pressing topic to discuss: air pollution in Europe and its serious implications for health and the environment. I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Emily Carter, an environmental health expert and a member of the European Environment Agency. Dr. Carter, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
Dr.Emily Carter: Thank you for having me. I’m glad to be here to discuss such an crucial issue.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. the statistics released by the European Environment Agency are staggering—239,000 deaths attributed to air pollution every year in the EU. What do you think are the main drivers behind these alarming numbers?
Dr. Carter: the major contributors to air pollution in Europe include particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide. The combustion of fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industrial activities substantially increases these pollutants. Urbanization also plays a role, as densely populated areas experience higher levels of emissions.
Editor: You mentioned particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide. Could you break down how each of these pollutants specifically impacts health?
Dr. Carter: Of course. Particulate matter is especially harmful as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. this leads to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.Ozone, while beneficial in the upper atmosphere, can cause meaningful respiratory problems when present at ground level, exacerbating conditions like asthma. Nitrogen dioxide primarily results from vehicle emissions and can irritate the airways, leading to reduced lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Editor: It seems the situation is dire, yet you mentioned ther’s a positive trend. Could you elaborate on that?
Dr. Carter: Certainly. Despite the high mortality rates, there have been improvements in air quality in several regions across Europe due to stricter regulations and increased awareness. Many cities are transitioning to greener public transport, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting cleaner technologies. These initiatives have led to measurable reductions in certain air pollutants.
Editor: That’s encouraging to hear! What more can be done at both the governmental and individual levels to further combat this public health crisis?
Dr. Carter: At the governmental level, it’s crucial to enforce and strengthen air quality standards and health-based regulations. Investments in sustainable infrastructure, like electric vehicle charging stations and renewable energy sources, can also make a significant difference. On an individual level, people can contribute by reducing car usage, supporting local clean air initiatives, and advocating for policy changes that prioritize health and the environment.
Editor: These are practical steps that everyone can engage with.As an expert, what do you foresee as the future of air quality in Europe?
Dr. Carter: I am cautiously optimistic. With the growing awareness of climate change and its impacts, there is a shift toward more sustainable practices. However, continued public engagement, political will, and scientific advancement in pollution reduction technologies will be crucial. The challenge is great, but so is the potential for improvement.
Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. the fight against air pollution is undoubtedly critical for both public health and environmental sustainability. We appreciate your work and expertise in this area.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue these conversations and take action. Together, we can work towards cleaner air for everyone in Europe.