International Air Quality Report Shows Big Differences Across Europe

International Air Quality Report Shows Big Differences Across Europe
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A major international air quality report for 2025 has revealed stark contrasts in air pollution levels among European countries, highlighting clean air in some Nordic states and very high fine particle pollution in parts of southeastern Europe. The findings are based on data compiled by Swiss air monitoring firm IQAir and analyzed by media outlets reporting on the World Air Quality Report.

According to the report, Finland stands out in Europe for having comparatively clean air, with many of its cities showing low concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) — tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Across Europe, only a few countries meet or approach the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guideline of 5 micrograms per cubic meter for annual PM2.5 exposure.

In contrast, several countries in southeastern and eastern Europe recorded pollution levels well above recommended limits. Data cited by environmental reporting show that cities in Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia were among those with some of the highest PM2.5 averages in Europe, reflecting ongoing challenges with fossil fuel burning, industrial emissions and traffic congestion.

The Turkish city of Iğdır was highlighted as having the highest average annual PM2.5 concentration in Europe for 2025, far exceeding WHO guidelines and ranking at the top of the continent’s pollution list. Five of the ten most polluted cities in Europe were located in Turkey, according to the report’s analysis.

Environmental health experts emphasize that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increases the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues and other serious health problems. They have called for stronger pollution controls and ongoing monitoring to reduce harmful emissions and protect public health.

The findings underscore persistent regional inequalities in air quality across Europe, even as some nations — especially in Northern Europe — continue to make progress toward cleaner air through environmental policy and the adoption of renewable energy sources.