Brussels, Oct. 14, (dpa/GNA) – European Union ministers on Monday gave their official backing to stricter air pollution targets from 2030, in a bid to better protect people and the environment.
Around 300,000 deaths each year in the EU can be attributed to the health consequences of air pollution, making it the “biggest environmental health risk in Europe,” according to an EU statement.
The new limits will apply to particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, which are known to cause respiratory issues.
Citizens will be entitled to compensation if they fall ill due to non-compliance with limit values, the statement said.
EU countries however can request the 2030 deadline to be postponed under certain conditions.
The new EU limits are based on an agreement between representatives from the European Parliament and member states reached in February.
EU countries have two years to adopt national laws to implement the new thresholds in the bloc’s 27 members. Countries failing to comply with the limits may be fined.
The new rules are intended to set the course for the European Commission’s action plan for zero pollutants in air, water and soil by 2050.
GNA