This report evaluates the environmental burden of disease (EBD) linked to long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) across 41 European countries in 2023. Using the key health indicators—attributable deaths, years of life lost, years lived with disability, and disability-adjusted life years—the analysis quantifies the health impacts of air pollution above concentrations defined as the World Health Organisation’s air quality guideline levels. Approximately 206,000 deaths are attributable to PM2.5, while about 56,000 and 71,000 deaths area attributable to NO2 and O3, respectively. The disease burden from PM2.5 was highest due to its association with multiple health outcomes, with high baseline prevalence and mortality. Results highlight strong regional disparities, with South-Eastern Europe most affected by health effects from PM2.5 and NO2, and Southern Europe by those from O3. Findings underscore the need for targeted policies to reduce pollutant-specific health impacts in Europe.

Framework Partnership Agreement No. OCP/EEA/CAS/21/005-ETC/HEWork programme 2025