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Pollution affects the air we breathe, the water we use and the soil we depend on, harming human health and the environment. The EU aims to reduce air, water and soil pollution to levels that are no longer harmful to people and nature by 2050.
Pollution can come in many forms and from many sources. Some sources are widespread, like transport and agriculture, whereas others are linked to a specific place, like a factory or power plant. Chemicals, dust, noise and radiation are pollutants that can alter air, water and soil in a way that makes them harmful to our health and environment. Some remain in the environment for many years and can build up over time.
Europe has made significant progress in reducing pollution over recent decades, thanks to environmental laws. For example:
- Premature deaths linked to air pollution has fallen significantly.
- Europe’s industry is becoming cleaner with fewer emissions to air and water.
- A wider uptake of electric cars and more extensive public transport systems contribute to cleaner air, especially in cities.
- Improved wastewater treatment has made more rivers, lakes and coastal waters cleaner and safer for recreation.
- Better farming practices can help reduce pollution from fertiliser and pesticide use.
Despite this progress, pollution remains a challenge. Air pollution continues to cause illness and premature deaths, while chemicals, pesticides and excess nutrients affect Europe's waters, soils and ecosystems.
Further progress will require better implementation of existing policies and more action to prevent pollution at source. The EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan supports this approach.
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PFAS polymers: what are the risks?
PFAS, often called 'forever chemicals', have raised concerns about their impacts on human health and the environment. Less is known about PFAS polymers, which are used in many everyday products and technologies.
Evidence suggests that PFAS polymers can contribute to pollution throughout their life cycle. Explore their potential risks to people and the environment.
How does pollution affect mental health?
Pollution affects more than our physical health. Growing scientific evidence suggests that exposure to air pollution, noise and certain chemicals may contribute to mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Children and other vulnerable groups may be particularly at risk.
Our briefing explores these links and how reducing pollution could help protect mental health and well-being across Europe.
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Europe's waters remain under pressure
Europe's rivers, lakes and groundwater remain under pressure from pollution, particularly from agriculture. Nutrients, pesticides and other harmful substances continue to affect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
Despite progress in reducing some forms of pollution, most of Europe's surface waters are still not in good ecological condition. Explore the challenges facing Europe's waters and what needs to change to improve their health.
Noise pollution in Europe
More than one in five Europeans are exposed to harmful levels of transport noise, mainly from road traffic. Long-term exposure can disturb sleep, increase stress and contribute to serious health problems, including heart disease.
Despite efforts to reduce noise pollution, Europe is not on track to meet its 2030 noise reduction target. Discover how noise affects our health and what can be done to reduce exposure.
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