Meghan Hodges
Italy has some of the most polluted air in Europe, with its citizens constantly exposed to air pollution levels that exceed established limits, posing serious health threats. In 2018, air quality levels were reaching a red alert status, with PM2.5 causing most breathing and heart problems and attributed to over 9% of deaths of Italians over 30. The north of Italy is among the worst areas in Europe for polluted air, with Cremona in Lombardy placing next to last for the average levels of PM2.5. Milan and Turin are two of the larger northern cities with some of the worst air pollution in Europe. In 2020, 24 Italian cities were among Europe's 100 most polluted.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average level of air pollution in Italy in 2019 | 61 US AQI |
| Air Quality Index (AQI) in Italy on 18 June 2025 | 49 (Good) |
| Air Quality Index (AQI) in Italy on 17 June 2025 | 45 (Good) |
| Air Quality Index (AQI) in Italy on 18 June 2025 (worst in the last 24 hours) | 50 (Good) |
| Concentration of PM2.5 in 2019 | 17.09 µg/m³ |
| Concentration of PM2.5 in 2018 | 14.95 µg/m³ |
| Cities with some of the worst air pollution in Europe | Milan and Turin |
| Least polluted cities in Italy | Bolzano and Trento |
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What You'll Learn
Northern cities among the worst in Europe for air pollution
Italy has long struggled with air pollution, with its large metropolitan areas and northern cities among the worst in Europe for air pollution. In the 1990s, Italy was the tenth-largest producer of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the world. While smog levels have decreased since the 1970s and 1980s, heavy traffic and congestion in large cities continue to be a main source of pollution.
Northern Italian cities such as Milan, Turin, and Padova have some of the worst air pollution in Europe. In December 2017, Milan and Turin introduced traffic restrictions to try to improve air quality. Despite this, in 2018, air quality levels were reaching a "red" alert status. The sharp rise in concentrations of PM2.5 is particularly concerning, as it causes most breathing and heart problems and is attributed to over 9% of deaths of Italians over the age of 30.
In mid-February 2023, many cities in Italy's Po valley were covered with pollution, with the regions of Lombardy and Veneto particularly affected. The daily PM2.5 average concentration in cities such as Milan, Padova, and Verona surged above 75 micrograms per cubic meter, according to Copernicus researchers. This is significantly higher than the WHO recommendation of 5 micrograms of fine particulate matter per cubic meter of air. Geography is partially to blame, as the region is surrounded by mountains, trapping pollution created by heavy traffic, industry, agricultural emissions, and residential heating.
The domestic heating sector is a major contributor to air pollution in Italy, producing 68% of all PM2.5 emissions. The use of wood biomass for heating is a significant source of particulates in the air. Additionally, road transport causes 16% of total PM2.5 emissions, 66% of nitrogen oxide (NO) emissions, 18% of sulphur oxides (SO), and 20% of NMVOCs. Traditional technologies, such as wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, are responsible for the majority of particulate emissions in the transport sector.
While the industrial sector has significantly reduced pollutant emissions over the years, there are still urban areas throughout Italy that experience poor air quality. Overall, Italian citizens are constantly exposed to air pollution levels that exceed established limits, posing serious health threats.
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Transport and congestion as sources of pollution
Italy, a country known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, faces significant environmental challenges, particularly in the realm of air and water pollution. While the country has made strides in recent years to address these issues, transport and congestion remain major sources of pollution, contributing to poor air quality and other environmental concerns.
Transportation is a key factor in Italy's pollution problem. The country has a high rate of car ownership, with over 600 cars per 1,000 inhabitants, and a strong reliance on private vehicles for commuting and travel. This has led to a significant increase in traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas, resulting in elevated levels of air pollutants. Congested roads and idle vehicles emit various harmful compounds, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter, all of which contribute to poor air quality and have negative impacts on human health.
In addition to air pollution, transport congestion also impacts water quality. As vehicles idle in traffic, oil and grease emissions, as well as metal particles from brake wear, can accumulate on road surfaces. When it rains, these pollutants are washed away, ending up in nearby water bodies. This contributes to water pollution and can have detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity. Congestion also leads to increased fuel consumption and higher emissions of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and further exacerbating environmental issues.
To address these challenges, Italy has implemented a range of measures. Efforts have been made to improve public transportation systems, with investments in infrastructure and the promotion of sustainable mobility options, such as bike-sharing programs and electric vehicle usage. Congestion charging schemes, such as the congestion ring in Milan, have been introduced to discourage private car use and reduce traffic in congested areas. Additionally, the government has promoted the development of low-emission zones and encouraged the use of cleaner fuels and technologies, such as natural gas and electric vehicles.
While these initiatives have shown some positive results, there is still much to be done to mitigate the environmental impacts of transport and congestion in Italy. Further investments in sustainable infrastructure and public transportation are necessary to reduce the reliance on private vehicles. Additionally, continued support for the adoption of low-emission and electric vehicles, as well as the implementation of stricter emission standards, can help reduce air and water pollution levels. Through a combination of policy measures, technological advancements, and behavioral changes, Italy can make significant strides in addressing the environmental challenges posed by transport congestion and improve the overall quality of its environment.
Overall, transport and congestion remain significant sources of pollution in Italy, affecting both air and water quality. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves improving public transportation, encouraging active mobility, and implementing policies that discourage private car usage. By prioritizing sustainable mobility and emissions reduction, Italy can mitigate the environmental impacts of congestion and move towards a greener and more sustainable future.
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The impact of industrial centres
Italy's industrial centres have had a significant impact on the country's pollution levels, particularly in the north. The Po Valley, for instance, is one of the most polluted places in Europe in terms of air quality. Cities in this region, such as Milan, Turin, Cremona, Verona, Padova, and Vicenza, suffer from heavy pollutants due to a combination of traffic, indoor heating from wood-burning, and industries like farming, engineering, and ceramics. The geography that allowed for the industrialisation of northern Italy has also contributed to the degradation of its air quality.
The steel industry has been a specific area of concern. A large steel plant near the urban area of Taranto in southern Italy has been linked to excess mortality and morbidity from various diseases, possibly due to air pollution. Studies have indicated an increased risk of natural mortality, particularly in the elderly population, attributed to industrial pollution in the area.
While the industrial sector in Italy has made efforts to reduce emissions, some sectors, including steel, chemicals, and energy production, continue to struggle with the transition. As a result, urban areas throughout Italy still face health risks associated with industrial pollution. The domestic heating sector, which includes traditional wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, contributes significantly to particulate emissions and poor air quality.
Additionally, road transport remains a major source of pollution in Italy, with private urban road transport and incentives for dieselisation playing a significant role. The congestion in large metropolitan areas and the reliance on cars in certain regions, such as the Po Valley, contribute to the country's pollution levels.
To address these issues, Italian cities will need to work towards complying with established air pollution limits. This includes implementing measures to reduce emissions, such as encouraging the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, and investing in sustainable mobility and environmental initiatives.
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The dangers of PM2.5
Italy, known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, faces a significant challenge when it comes to air quality and pollution. While the country has made efforts to improve its environmental standards and reduce pollution, the issue of harmful particulate matter, especially PM2.5, remains a concern.
Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, is a complex mixture of solid and liquid droplets floating in the air. These tiny particles are approximately 2.5 microns or less in width, making them invisible to the human eye. Their minuscule size, however, belies their dangerous nature. PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, reaching the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. Once inhaled, these particles can cause a myriad of health problems.
The health impacts of PM2.5 are even more concerning. When inhaled, these tiny particles can bypass the body's natural defenses and reach the deepest parts of the lungs. There, they can trigger a range of adverse effects, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Short-term exposure to elevated PM2.5 levels can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, leading to coughing, sneezing, and respiratory issues. It can also aggravate pre-existing conditions such as asthma and emphysema. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to more severe health consequences, including reduced lung function, chronic bronchitis, and even the development of lung cancer. Additionally, fine particulate matter can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and contributing to cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Addressing the issue of PM2.5 pollution requires a multifaceted approach. Governments and industries must work together to implement stricter emission standards and develop sustainable practices to reduce particulate matter emissions. Additionally, individuals can contribute by adopting cleaner energy sources, reducing personal vehicle usage, and advocating for policies that prioritize clean air and environmental protection. By recognizing the dangers of PM2.5, we can take the necessary steps to mitigate its impact and create a healthier environment for all.
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The fight for healthy air
Italy has some of the most polluted air in Europe, with Turin ranked as the third most polluted city in Europe for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels. The north of Italy is among the worst areas in Europe for poor air quality, with Cremona in Lombardy placing next to last for the average levels of fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. This is an indicator of pollution levels, and the microscopic particles cause most breathing and heart problems, as well as being attributed to over 9% of deaths of Italians over the age of 30.
Italian citizens are constantly exposed to air pollution levels that far exceed the established limits, and the country has persistently and systematically breached EU rules. In 2018, air quality levels were reaching a "red" alert status, and PM2.5 was responsible for some 52,000 premature deaths in Italy that year. The industrial sector in Italy has significantly reduced the emission of pollutants over the years, but some sectors, such as steel, chemicals, and energy production, have been slower to change.
Private urban road transport remains one of the main sources of pollution, with road transport causing 66% of nitrogen oxide (NO) emissions and 20% of NMVOCs (mainly benzene). Traditional technologies, such as wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, are responsible for the majority of particulate emissions in this sector. The use of wood biomass for heating also causes a massive presence of particulates in the air.
In light of this, Italian mother Chiara has joined other parents across Europe in fighting to protect their children against harmful levels of air pollution. She is demanding that the court recognize her son's right to breathe clean and healthy air and hold the regional authorities accountable for the damage done to his health. She is not alone in her fight, with families in Germany, Belgium, and Poland also demanding that authorities go beyond current EU air pollution limits.
There are some positive developments in Italy, with Milan and Turin introducing traffic restrictions in 2017 to try and improve air quality. There is also a ground-level air purification system, Air Pollution Abatement (APA), which controls air quality in various spaces. APA is an intelligent multiservice platform that integrates environmental sensor monitoring systems, WiFi, IoT, AI solutions, and provides cloud-based real-time data.
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Frequently asked questions
Italy is one of the most polluted countries in Europe, with 24 of its cities ranking among the 100 worst in Europe for air quality. The north of Italy is among the worst areas in Europe for polluted air, with Cremona in Lombardy ranking as the worst polluted city in Italy, and the second-worst in Europe.
Private urban road transport is one of the main sources of pollution in Italy, contributing to 16% of total PM2.5 emissions, 66% of nitrogen oxide emissions, 18% of sulphur oxide emissions, and 20% of NMVOCs. Traditional technologies such as wood-burning fireplaces and stoves are also major contributors, as well as the domestic heating sector, which produces 68% of all PM2.5 emissions.
Air pollution has serious health repercussions for Italian citizens, who are constantly exposed to levels that exceed established limits. PM2.5 was responsible for approximately 52,000 premature deaths in Italy in 2018, and has been linked to respiratory problems, asthma attacks, cancers, heart attacks, and strokes.
Some of the most polluted cities in Italy include Cremona, Vincenza, Milan, Turin, Venice, and Naples.
Italy has implemented traffic restrictions in cities like Milan and Turin to improve air quality. Additionally, the country has developed the Air Pollution Abatement (APA) system, which controls air quality in industrial sites, urban spaces, and residential areas. However, Italy has consistently broken EU laws on air pollution since 2005, and there are ongoing legal battles to hold regional authorities accountable for failing to protect citizens' right to breathe clean air.
