What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you hear the word pollution? Some see it as foggy skies, piles of garbage lying on the streetside, litter-filled rivers, or even thick clouds of smoke. Now, can you imagine the most polluted cities in Europe looking like this? Not many can.
The reality is that every region worldwide grapples with high levels of air pollution. Factors such as industrialization, deforestation, and increasing population counts have accelerated this rise in contamination, causing people everywhere to experience issues like insufficient access to fresh air.
Europe is home to some of the
top stunning urban areas across the globe
, however, similar to many areas globally, the continent faces significant pollution issues. The predominant and perhaps more hazardous type of pollution in Europe is air contamination.
The first industrial revolution propelled Europe to become the most advanced continent globally, yet simultaneously turned it into one of the planet’s most contaminated regions.
How European Cities with High Pollution Levels Are Identified
A recent study by Airly revealed that pollution levels have drastically increased throughout the member states of Europe. The study reported on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) levels across numerous major cities in Europe, and the findings were grim, to say the least.
This list dives into the details of the most polluted cities in Europe ranked by their NO2 levels. In September 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) released its new and stricter pollution standards in an effort to curb the growing air contamination.
The latest
WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines (or AQGs)
recommend new air quality levels and the reduction of key pollutants. Air quality standards for PM10 changed from 50 µg/m3 to 45 µg/m3, while NO2 levels stayed the same at 25 µg/m3.
15 European Cities with the Highest Pollution Levels
Before we dive in, it’s worth noting that these most polluted cities in Europe are ranked according to their NO2 levels and as a percentage of the new WHO guidelines.
NO2 is a chemical compound released into the air in various ways. The compound causes irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. That said, long-term exposure can lead to serious human health issues like asthma, and respiratory diseases as well as causing premature deaths.
You might encounter a few of these.
European bucket list
destinations on this list – don’t be alarmed! Many of the best cities to visit on the continent have some of the worst pollution levels on the planet, and tourists could be a major contributing factor. Keep reading to find out how.
1. Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Photo by
Karl Moran
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 44,6 µg/m3 (179% over WHO safe standard)
Renowned for its spectacular bridges, dynamic culinary scene, amber-hued ale beers, and an energetic, non-stop nightlife, Newcastle stands out as one of the premier locations within the United Kingdom. Additionally, the city houses numerous attractions and amenities.
top attractions in the UK
And boasts a robust industrial legacy, evolving into a key industrial and financial center in the area by the year 1800.
Newcastle’s industry prowess in glassmaking, ironworking, and shipbuilding made the port city one of the most sought-after places to live and work. Unfortunately, this explosion of industries has significantly contributed to the high NO2 levels in Newcastle.
Other common air pollutant factors include vehicle emissions and weather conditions such as temperature inversions and Sahara desert dust storms that travel across Europe. But these are not the only factors that influence the rise of pollution in Newcastle.
Social and economic issues like high unemployment rates result in people being unable to afford energy-efficient home heating systems. Newcastle is a low-cost-of-living city, so local industries may be less likely to put pollution control measures in place if there are no penalties or costs for not doing so.
These factors, along with the dependence on outdated industrial plants, contribute significantly to pollution.
2. Naples, Italy
Photo by
Tom Podmore
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 42,4 µg/m3 (170% over WHO safe standard)
Oh – Napoli, where pizza was born. Nestled along the west coast of southern Italy, this vibrant city boasts stunning landscapes, vibrantly painted structures, and historical landmarks, drawing countless visitors. However, does Naples’ air quality measure up to the excellence of its traditional Margherita pizza?
Pollution is a long-standing problem in Naples. The city faces large amounts of emissions caused by traffic, shipping and port-related activities, metal processing, and topographical factors like being surrounded by hills and mountains. For example, when polluted air gets blown into the valley, it gets trapped by the hills and lingers in the air above the city.
Naples also experiences socio-economic ills like high levels of unemployment, low cost of living, and an informal economy largely driven by undocumented migrants who can’t find formal work. This also leads to unmaintained living conditions, overcrowding and other public health issues as well as limited access to green technologies that could counteract pollution in this western Europe city.
3. Paris, France
Photo by
Viviana Ceballos
on Pexels
NO2 levels: 41,2 µg/m3 (165% over WHO safe standard)
There are many fascinating
facts about Paris
that you might not know. Like that, the city is home to more dogs than children, has over 6,000 streets, and has about 450,000 trees. But another fact you might not be aware of is that Paris has some of the highest NO2 levels in all of Europe.
When you think of Paris, places like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe are probably the first to come to mind, and it’s not surprising. There are many exciting
things to do in Paris
, but have you ever considered the poor air quality you’re breathing in? Probably not.
Paris is grappling with severe air pollution. The primary sources include exhaust fumes from vehicles burning fossil fuels, industrial activities, and meteorological factors like stagnant air, which prevents pollutants from dispersing effectively. As this trapped air accumulates, it reaches hazardous concentrations, leading to respiratory problems for residents because of the dangerously polluted atmosphere.
The primary sources of pollution in Paris are vehicle manufacturing, along with the production of chemicals and heavy machinery. Additional contributors to contamination involve elevated living expenses, resulting in many individuals residing in densely populated areas.
This excessive urban density often causes a lack of caring for the environment and limited access to government services, leading to higher unemployment and poverty levels.
4. Antwerp, Belgium
Photo by
Zoë Gayah Jonker
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 35,9 µg/m3 (144% over WHO safe standard)
Filled with captivating Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance structures, along with castles and historical sculptures, Antwerp stands out as a top destination for history enthusiasts across the globe. Renowned as the “diamond capital of the world,” this harbor city plays an essential part in the global diamond industry.
Antwerp is situated in one of the safest nations globally, ensuring you can explore the city’s attractions without concerns about theft or fraud.
bike tour
Instead, your concern should be with the dangerous levels of NO2 present in Antwerp’s atmosphere.
The primary sources of contamination in the city come mainly from emissions produced during petrochemical refinement and activities such as logistics operations, maritime transport, and steel production. Additionally, the significant pollution levels in Antwerp can be attributed to meteorological factors, including fluctuating wind directions.
Antwerp’s global reputation for excelling in diamond cutting and trade draws both visitors and newcomers looking for better opportunities. However, the city’s expensive lifestyle might compel certain individuals to reside in less sanitary conditions, thereby exacerbating issues related to land and air contamination.
5. Dortmund, Germany
Photo by
Kseniia Rastvorova
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 35.6 µg/m³ (142% above WHO safety guidelines)
Renowned for its diverse affection towards soccer, craft brewing, cultural institutions, and a charming blend of contemporary and historical architecture, Dortmund stands out as an enchanting destination within Germany.
Home to both the GermanFootballMuseum and Borussia Dortmund, one of Europes top clubs, this city draws numerous soccer fans. Therefore, you must visit these attractions before leaving town.
attending the Düsseldorf Signal Iduna Park event
—the lively home stadium of the football team.
In recent years, the contamination levels in Dortmund have kept increasing. Historically tied to coal mining activities, which greatly exacerbated pollution, the city now faces additional challenges from modern sectors such as steel fabrication and chemicals processing, further deteriorating air quality.
Dortmund faces large vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and domestic heating, especially in the colder winter months. The city also has a high unemployment rate, leaving plenty of people to live in low-cost housing areas, which are typically close to industrial sites. These socioeconomic issues continue to grow, and pollution levels along with them.
You may wish to check out my article on the
top most contaminated rivers globally.
6. Zürich, Switzerland
Photo by
Meizhi Lang
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 34.9 µg/m³ (140% above WHO safety guidelines)
The Swiss capital is world-recognised for its elite financial institutions, high-end shopping, and gorgeous scenery around Lake Zurich. Its historic old town is dotted with picturesque lanes of colourful homes, streetside cafes, and plenty of bridges and fountains.
Zurich embodies contradictions; take its moniker as an illustration: “Small Yet Mighty,” which alludes to its significant financial hubs despite not matching up in scale with larger urban centers worldwide. This enigma is further reflected in the city’s environmental metrics regarding contamination levels.
When measuring pollution by PM2.5 levels, Zürich ranks outstandingly as the city with the cleanest air in the world. But once looked at according to levels of NO2, the story turns on its head. Zürich’s pollution is mainly caused by traffic, harmful gases from cooking and heating, and waste material from industries like pharmaceuticals and machinery manufacturing.
The city’s opulence and extravagant lifestyle have earned it the status of being one of the
safest cities in the world
but also one of the most expensive. This has led to a high cost of living, causing population density within urban areas and increased demand for transportation without a strong public transport system.
You may like reading my piece on the
top-traveled destinations in Europe.
7. Stuttgart, Germany
Image by
Wolfgang Vogt
on Pixabay
NO2 levels: 34.1 µg/m³ (137% above the WHO safety threshold)
Given its moniker as the “birthplace of the automotive industry,” it comes as no surprise that Stuttgart features among the top spots for air pollution across Europe. The city houses some of the globe’s premier carmakers along with renowned institutions such as the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum.
The high-quality automotive sector in Stuttgart significantly contributes to nitrogen dioxide levels in the atmosphere via vehicle exhausts and industrial operations. Additionally, the region’s geography plays a role; the city’s location amidst hills and valleys exacerbates this issue.
Other notable factors include Stuttgart’s high cost of living, which translates to dense urban areas. The auto industry job market also attracts many migrants, so heavy traffic congestion is a permanent plight in the city.
8. Munich, Germany
Photo by
Ian Kelsall
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 33.5 µg/m³ (134% above WHO safety guidelines)
Munich is renowned for numerous attractions – including historic Gothic-style buildings, delectable Bavarian food, myriad museums, and the yearly Oktoberfest celebration. This city readily earns a spot on top lists.
some of the most stunning urban areas in Germany
because of its remarkable parks, majestic church steeples, and castles.
Like Stuttgart, Munich has a massive automotive manufacturing industry and a growing trade in information and aerospace technology. This leads to higher traffic emissions in the city centre. Residential heating in winter also contributes to the levels of air pollution in Munich.
The city has many pull factors, like a huge job market in the technology and manufacturing sectors, attracting many migrants. This has led to a high cost of living and densely populated urban areas. The growing population rate further increases residential and traffic emissions.
9. Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Photo by
Paul Fiedler
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 32.6 µg/m³ (130% above the WHO safety threshold)
Often, when you hear the word “Frankfurt”, the first thing that comes to mind is their high-quality sausages. But there is more to Frankfurt than what meets the eye. The city is home to many top
landmarks in Germany
and is an excellent place to visit for a delightful blend of modern and historic attractions.
The city is Germany’s financial centre, being home to the Deutsche Bundesbank, the European Central Bank, and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, which is the 12th largest in the world by market capitalisation. This causes a large influx of migrants and, with that, rising pollution levels.
The pollution in Frankfurt primarily stems from industrial operations funded via bank loans from the financial services industry. Additionally, vehicular exhaust emissions within the city along with fluctuating meteorological patterns play roles in increasing atmospheric contamination.
Primarily, other airborne contaminants result from locals’ routine travel activities along with major transit centers such as bus and railway terminals.
10. Hamburg, Germany
NO2 levels: 32 µg/m³ (128% above WHO safety guidelines)
If you could spend
one day in Hamburg
What might your day entail? You could stop by Hafencity and admire the Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, or perhaps dedicate your time to discovering the harbor area and the Speicherstadt.
guided day cruise
.
It seems like an ideal day, doesn’t it? However, have you thought about the air quality in the city? Being one of Germany’s principal ports, Hamburg sees significant maritime activity including numerous cruise ships. Additionally, the expanding aerospace and logistics sectors contribute further to air pollution in the area.
Hamburg experiences additional contributing elements leading to higher pollution levels. Such factors encompass rapid urban expansion, elevated living costs, and heavy dependence on maritime activities through the port and shipping sectors. Consequently, these aspects may lead to reductions in lifespan due to health problems like lung cancer and cardiovascular ailments.
11. Rotterdam (The Hague Metro), Netherlands
Photo by
Alireza Parpaei
on Unsplash
Nitrogen dioxide levels: 31.8 µg/m³ (127% above World Health Organization safety standards)
Rotterdam stands out from other places in the Netherlands. It is uniquely home to skyscrapers within its urban landscape. The city’s modern architecture, such as the famous Cubes Houses, the vibrant Market Hall, and the innovative Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, embodies Rotterdam’s contemporary spirit.
This represents a substantial accomplishment, particularly since much of the city needed reconstruction following World War II. Similar to numerous European ports, Rotterdam grapples with contamination stemming from maritime operations. Pollution levels here are exacerbated by prevailing winds and the city’s strong dependence on petrochemical processing, transportation, and industrial production.
Rotterdam is part of a broader urban area that encompasses The Hague. As the location of the Dutch Parliament, it also houses the headquarters for the UN’s International Court of Justice and theIntl. Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).
International Criminal Court
(ICC).
Thus, Rotterdam draws numerous international individuals who look for help or file grievances with these organizations. Consequently, this frequently results in crowded city zones, elevated expenses of daily life, and higher levels of vehicular exhaust emissions.
12. Brussels, Belgium
Photo by
Polly
on Unsplash
Nitrogen dioxide levels: 31.2 µg/m³ (125% above World Health Organization safety standards)
The Belgian capital boasts some of the most impressive attractions globally. It houses numerous Art Deco bars, Gothic cathedrals, chocolatiers, and breathtaking sights.
European palaces
some of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The city is also a hub of international relations, being the European Union’s administrative centre, as well as other EU institutions. This, along with Brussels’ financial hubs and chemical manufacturing plants, further contribute to the city’s NO2 levels. These industries are often run from tall buildings that use a lot of energy for heating and cooling.
In addition, Brussels deals with secondary contributing factors like the high cost of living and urban areas that are densely populated due to EU-related employment. Due to extensive residential heating, especially in winter, the city experiences larger emissions of harmful gases.
13. Oslo, Norway
Photo by
Marian Rotea
on Unsplash
NO2 levels: 30,5 µg/m3 (122% over WHO safe standard)
Oslo is the quintessential European city filled with Nordic history in its museums, stunning architecture like the Oslo Cathedral, and mouthwatering seafood. The Nordmarka Wilderness Area is the city’s largest forested region, offering many outdoor activities like camping.
But just as pollution is a recurring theme in most of Europe, the same is true for Oslo. The city experiences heavy air pollution coming from its maritime and shipping-related activities. Oslo’s large wood industry also plays a crucial role in emissions caused by burning fuels.
The city has a growing cost of living and densely populated urban areas caused by petroleum industry-related employment. In the winter, most households use wood for cooking and burning, which worsens pollution levels.
14. Athens, Greece
NO2 levels: 30,5 µg/m3 (122% over WHO safe standard)
The Greek capital is a place of many wonders. From the majestic Acropolis sitting on a hilltop to the numerous museums, temples, and charming Cycladic villages, you’ll find many great
activities to enjoy in Athens
, and then some.
The city is famously recognized as the cradle of democracy, and you can experience this significant era by visiting seven of its premier archaeological locations through a guided tour. However, when you’re savoring your
Greece itinerary
, remember that the air isn’t the cleanest.
Athens deals with high pollution levels caused by shipping activities, construction, and topographic factors, as mountains surround the city. The city also experiences many tourists that flock to its picture-perfect island each year.
The extensive tourism, high levels of unemployment, and rapid urban sprawl have also made a significant contribution to the rising levels of NO2 in Athens.
15. Sofia, Bulgaria
Photo by
Tsvetelina Yankova
on Pexels
NO2 levels: 30 µg/m3 (120% over WHO safe standard)
Filled with stunning buildings, churches, historical sites, ancient ruins, and nature spots like the Rila Lakes and Vitosha Mountain, Sofia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. The capital of Bulgaria boasts remarkable museums, churches, and nightlife worth experiencing.
Sofia’s main pollutants are emissions caused by traffic, industrial activities like food manufacturing, and residential heating. These contribute massively to the levels of NO2 being released into the air. Light manufacturing and construction have also worsened the pollution.
Additional elements such as a reduced cost of living, restricted participation in economic activities, and improved clean technology have contributed to increased pollution levels in heavily inhabited regions. Additionally, Sofia experiences heightened emissions due to a significant dependence on older vehicle models for transport needs.
Most Polluted Cities in Europe | Wrapped Up
There you have it — 17 of the most polluted cities in Europe. This continent that many only associate with historic landmarks, ancient ruins, and groundbreaking developments of the world (and, to a greater extent) life as we know it.
The most polluted cities in Europe face high levels of NO2 contamination. Their large industrial and manufacturing hubs have released millions of smog into the air from as early as the First Industrial Revolution.
While many of the cities on this list have mandated a course of action to deal with pollution, increased access to information and government services would go a long way. These cities are often cited as the most beautiful
places in Europe
. So instead of just looking up the must-see attractions, also take some time to research the level of air pollution.
This will give you a clearer approach when picking your next vacation spot. You’ll have the knowledge to choose your destination based on not only what you see but what’s in the air.
