Germany Meets Air Quality Standards Nationwide for First Time in 2024

Preliminary data shows compliance with EU air pollution limits, though stricter rules in 2030 may pose new challenges.

Germany achieved compliance with all EU air quality limits in 2024, according to preliminary data from 600 monitoring stations.
This marks the first time since the introduction of the NO2 limit in 2010 that all stations adhered to the 40 micrograms per cubic meter threshold.
While particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) levels have been within limits for years, some urban areas narrowly met NO2 standards in 2024.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has long recommended stricter air quality limits, highlighting that current EU thresholds are outdated and insufficient for health protection.
New EU regulations set to take effect in 2030 will halve the allowable NO2 and PM2.5 levels, posing significant challenges for urban compliance.