Health impacts of air pollution

Between 2005 and 2022, the rate of decline of premature deaths in Slovakia was higher than the EU average. This trend suggests that reductions of particulate matter (PM) concentrations in Slovakia are likely to reach the EU-level target of reducing the negative health impact of air pollution by 55 % by 2030 compared with 2005. Reducing premature deaths by at least 55 % in Slovakia would require the reduction of premature deaths due to PM exposure by a factor of change of 0.5, which Slovakia is on track to meet. The majority of PM emissions in Slovakia are attributed to . Emissions are often amplified by scattering conditions, such as temperature inversions in winter, especially in mountainous areas with limited scattering from low chimneys of single-family homes. To ensure that the 2030 target is met, effective measures to reduce the high share of household heating with solid fuels need to be taken urgently. In rural areas, the burning of waste wood, low-quality solid fuel and improper heating practices are still prevalent. (2023) empowers municipalities and state authorities to control and sanction these practices. Fully utilising the law could support the Zero Pollution Action Plan.