Paris fights Air Pollution

Twenty years ago, air quality in Paris was extremely low. The NO2 and particulate matter amounts endangered human and animal health to the point that the local government has finally taken the situation under control.

Why is this important?

Depending on concentrations, nitrous dioxide can harm the respiratory system: irritate the nose, throat, eyes, and lungs. In high doses, it can cause severe lung damage and a lack of oxygen, as well as disrupt the cardiovascular system and our biggest organ, the skin.

Particulate matter (PM) causes similar effects, although there is a difference between PM2.5 and PM10, which determines the size of the particles. The smaller the particles, the more dangerous the effects they cause, due to the possibility of penetrating deep into the body. Possible long-term effects include cardiovascular diseases, stroke, diabetes, and lung cancer.

How are things different now?

Between 2005 and 2024, PM and nitrogen dioxide levels fell by 55% and 50%, respectively. The illustration below shows the average NO2 concentration in micrograms per cubic meter. The current NO2 levels are considered ¨good¨, while PM levels are still ¨poor¨.

Inevitably, there is still obvious air pollution alongside roads and highways.

Steps that made the difference:

• Replacement of diesel vehicles with petrol and electric cars.
• The European emissions standards.
• Taxation of industrial pollutant emissions.
• Increased public transportation.
• Cycling infrastructure and green spaces.
• Voting to ban cars on 500 streets.
• Increasing parking fees for SUVs.
• Turning the banks of the river Seine into a pedestrian area.
• Eliminating 50 000 parking spaces.

With dedication like this, it is possible to change the air pollution situation worldwide. Paris is not the only city that has taken great efforts to fight against these issues, however, it is important to make everyone aware of the possibilities. All it takes is smart, actionable policies and a government that is ready to act. Because what matters the most is our health and the status of the planet on which we live.