Air quality in Europe - 2013 report
EEA Report No 9/2013
This report presents an overview and analysis of air quality in Europe from 2002 to 2011. It reviews progress towards meeting the requirements of the air quality directives and gives an overview of policies and measures introduced at European level to improve air quality and minimise impacts. An overview of the latest findings and estimates of the effects of air pollution on health and its impacts on ecosystems is also given.
Air quality continues to be a very important issue for public health, the economy and the environment. Europe has significantly cut emissions of several air pollutants in recent decades, greatly reducing emissions and exposure to substances such as sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, benzene and lead. Despite improvements over several decades, air pollution continues to damage human health and the environment. Particulate matter, ozone, reactive nitrogen substances and some organic compounds still pose a significant threat. This leads to ill health, premature deaths, and damage to ecosystems, crops, and buildings. These constitute real losses for the European economy, the productivity of its workforce, and the health of its natural systems.
Source: Source: > European Environment Agency [1]