EUluchtkwaliteitsrichtlijn

EU air quality, or EU-luchtkwaliteit in Dutch-language discussions, encompasses the European Union's framework to monitor and reduce ambient air pollution across member states. The aim is to protect health and ecosystems and to ensure a level playing field for industry.

The core framework is the ambient air quality directive 2008/50/EC, which sets limit and target values for pollutants such as PM10 and PM2.5, NO2, O3, SO2, and CO. Related rules cover emissions from industry and transport, including the Industrial Emissions Directive and vehicle standards. Member states must monitor air quality, publish data, and take action when limits are exceeded.

Data and monitoring are coordinated by the European Environment Agency (EEA), which publishes annual assessments such as Air Quality in Europe and maintains the EU Air Quality Index (DAQI) for public information. The policy also addresses cross-border transport of pollutants and requires cooperation among member states.

In recent years, EU air quality policy has advanced under the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package, aiming to tighten limits, cut pollutant emissions, and promote cleaner technologies by 2030 and beyond. Compliance relies on national action, monitoring, and the possibility of infringement procedures by the European Commission. The overarching goal is to reduce health risks and environmental damage from air pollution while supporting sustainable economic activity.