Salud por Derecho welcomes AAQD provisional agreement reached by the European Commission, Parliament and Council as an important step towards protecting our health. We recognize joint efforts done by the three institutions to reach this improtant agreement and we hope the process can be completed ratifying this regulation before the next European elections in June 2024.
Based on the information available we see very positive an update on maximum levels for the major air pollutants strengthening current monitoring and tracking systems. However, we are concerned that the limits are not fully aligned with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO). As we have advocated throughout the process, it is important for the AAQD to incorporate the most up-to-date scientific evidence and to be more ambitious in protecting public health.
Additionally, we are pleased to see that the directive includes a provision for a review of pollution indicators every five years starting from 2030. Furthermore, it is very positive the AAQD includes access to justice and compensation as well as the need to mprove access to information.
However, we are particularly concerned about the exemptions foreseen and the extension of deadlines for compliance with pollution limits, which can be delayed until 2040 in some cases. These measures may compromise the directive’s effectiveness in protecting health. We must not forget 97% of urban population breathes air which is considered unhealthy, resulting in hundreds of thousands of premature deaths and hundreds of billions of euros in health costs each year.
In summary, we urge the final approval of the new European air quality directive as soon as possible, based on the most up-to-date scientific evidence and prioritizing the health and well-being of all people living in Europe.
