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EU Tightens Air Pollution Standards
The EU's revised Air Quality Directive sets stricter limits on pollutants to reduce health risks, but implementation challenges remain.
French
United States
JusticeHealthClimate ChangeEuropean UnionRegulationsEnvironmental PolicyAir Quality
World Health Organization (Who)European Union (Eu)Euronews
Robert HodgsonJavier López
- What is the leading environmental health risk in the European Union?
- Air pollution is the leading environmental health risk in the EU, with pollutants exceeding WHO guidelines, resulting in premature deaths of approximately 300,000 Europeans annually.
- How does the revised directive impact citizens' access to justice regarding air pollution?
- The directive strengthens citizens' access to justice, allowing individuals to seek financial compensation if their health is harmed due to government or corporate inaction on air pollution.
- What are the new limits set by the revised EU Air Quality Directive for PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide?
- The revised EU Air Quality Directive sets stricter limits on PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, aiming for reductions to 10 µg/m3 and 20 µg/m3 respectively by 2030.
- What is the requested implementation period for the new limits, and what challenges does the EU face?
- Governments have requested a 10-year implementation period for the new limits, but the EU will need to support local and regional communities in meeting the stricter standards.
- How does the Green Deal relate to the new air quality directive, and what factors will determine its success?
- While the Green Deal aims to reconcile environmental protection with economic growth, the success of the new air quality directive hinges on governments' and citizens' acceptance of the required pace and methods.