500 physicians urge EU to stick to 2035 combustion engine phase-out

More than 500 doctors have called on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to uphold the planned 2035 phase-out of combustion engines, warning of serious health risks if the policy is weakened. The doctors criticized efforts to soften carbon dioxide (CO2) emission limits, arguing that delaying the transition would endanger public health.

Road traffic is responsible for around a fifth of European CO₂ emissions, 60 percent of which are traced back to cars. Road transport emissions in the EU increased by almost 25 percent between 1990 and 2022.

Open letter

In an open letter, Christian Schulz, managing director of the German Alliance on Climate Change and Health, explained that “exhaust fumes from combustion engines pollute the air we breathe, causing illness and death, and accelerate the climate crisis.”

The ongoing climate crisis and the more frequent, more intense, longer heatwaves and extreme weather events are already threatening the physical and mental health of people across Europe, leading to an unnecessary loss of life.

Significant source of air pollutants

Air pollution is the most significant environmental health risk and causes over 300,000 deaths annually in Europe. Exhaust fumes from car traffic are a significant source of air pollutants, such as particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, especially in cities. These substances increase the risk of asthma, allergies, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and strokes.

Studies have also indicated that children are particularly vulnerable, as particulate matter and other pollutants can impair the development of their lungs, brains, and psychomotor abilities.

They can also reduce intelligence and weaken their immune systems. Harmful air pollutants, like small particulate matter, can even be found in the lungs and brains of unborn children.

Billions in healthcare costs

Better air quality protects health and saves the European economy billions in healthcare costs. Climate-related health costs could reach $1.1 trillion annually if no decisive action is taken.

Under the EU’s current plan, no new gasoline or diesel cars will be registered after 2035 to cut transport sector emissions. However, the policy has come under renewed scrutiny, with the automotive industry and several EU member states pushing for a relaxation of the rules.

The European Commission is currently talking with industry stakeholders to address concerns over the phase-out. The results of these discussions, which involve carmakers, trade unions, environmental groups, and suppliers, are expected next week.