Vehicle emissions are a major source of air pollution in Europe, contributing to chronic respiratory and cardiovascular illness, pregnancy complications, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. Fossil fuel combustion in road transport releases nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which have no safe exposure levels and disproportionately harm children and older adults. Every year, polluted air is responsible for more than 300,000 premature deaths across Europe.
That is why EPHA, together with organisations representing over 60,000 medical professionals, signed an open letter to Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. The letter urges the European Commission to stand firm on the 2035 phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles. Weakening or delaying this commitment would put lives at risk and prolong Europe’s reliance on fossil fuels. Phasing out polluting cars will mean cleaner air, fewer hospital visits, healthier children, and longer, more active lives for all Europeans.
Polluted air impacts us all but we are not all affected equally. Check out these testimonials aimed at Commissioner Hoekstra: