Italy has the highest local levels of PM2.5 fine particulate matter air pollution in Europe. At the same time, over 90% of Europeans live in conditions with dangerous levels of air pollution according to WHO standards. This is reported by Euronews, according to UNN.
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According to the latest report from the European Environment Agency (EEA), the worst PM2.5 levels in 2024–2025 were recorded in southern Italy. In the towns of Ceglie Messapica and Torchiarolo, pollution levels reached 117 and 113 µg/m³ respectively, compared to the EU annual limit of 25 µg/m³.
PM2.5 is fine dust capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The main sources are road transport, oil refineries, cement plants, fossil fuels, and wildfires.
Gianluigi de Gennaro, Professor of Chemistry and Ecology at the University of Bari, explained that sharp spikes in pollution in Italy are often linked to biomass burning in winter, particularly the use of fireplaces.
In addition to Italy, exceedances of permissible standards were also recorded in Poland, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, North Macedonia, Romania, Turkey, and even Denmark.
The Balkans and Eastern Europe are cited as some of the most polluted regions in Europe. These areas also see the highest mortality rates associated with long-term exposure to PM2.5.
In Italy, the estimated mortality rate due to PM2.5 pollution is 101 cases per 100,000 population. For comparison, this figure is 41 in Spain, 34 in France, and 37 in Germany.
The lowest rates were recorded in Iceland, Finland, Sweden, Estonia, and Norway.
The European Environment Agency also warned of the dangers of other pollutants, including PM10, ground-level ozone, and benzo(a)pyrene.
Experts advise avoiding airing out homes during peak traffic hours, using air purifiers, and monitoring pollution levels through specialized apps.