A new report from the European Environment Agency reveals alarming levels of PM 2.5 pollution in Europe. North Macedonia is among the worst-affected regions with high air pollution-related deaths.
Up to 20 percent of measuring stations in Europe recorded air pollution above European standards, the latest report from the European Environment Agency shows. The biggest problem remains PM 2.5 particles, fine and dangerous dust that penetrates deep into the lungs and bloodstream and is created by traffic, industry, the burning of fossil fuels, cement factories, refineries and forest fires.
According to the report, the highest annual PM 2.5 concentrations in the period 2024–2025 were measured in southern Italy. The towns of Celle Messapica and Torchiarolo recorded extremely high values of 117 and 113 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively, despite the European Union's annual limit of 25 μg/m3.
"These peaks are mainly due to the burning of biomass during the winter, especially from chimneys," said Gianluigi De Gennaro, professor of chemistry and environmental impact at the University of Bari.
He explains that pollution is further held back due to dense atmospheric layers that prevent the dispersion of harmful particles.
In addition to Italy, regions in Poland, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, North Macedonia, Romania, Turkey and Denmark have also been recorded as exceeding the permitted limits. Among the most critical points in Europe are Sarajevo and the industrial regions of North Macedonia.
The report shows that the Balkans and Eastern Europe have the highest estimated mortality rates associated with long-term exposure to PM 2.5 particles. Albania, Bulgaria, Greece and Romania are particularly affected.
According to the strictest standards of the World Health Organization, more than nine out of ten people in Europe are exposed to pollution above the recommended level. The World Health Organization recommends that the concentration of PM 2.5 particles should not exceed 5 μg/m3, which is five times lower than the current European limit. Experts warn that it is not only PM 2.5 particles that are dangerous, but also PM10, ground-level ozone and benzo(a)pyrene, a carcinogenic substance produced by cigarette smoke, burnt food and exhaust fumes.
Experts advise citizens in urban areas to avoid airing their homes in the morning hours when traffic is heaviest and to use air purifiers. It is also recommended to avoid physical activities outdoors on days with high pollution, especially in industrial and densely populated areas.
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