Air quality in the Brussels-Capital Region has improved over the past ten years. According to the latest Annual Report on Air Quality from Brussels Environment, the low-emission zone, the accelerated transition from diesel to other engines, the modal shift, and technological developments explain this positive trend.

However, not all mandatory standards are being met, and significant efforts are still needed to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) standards and guarantee healthy air for Brussels residents.

Particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide

Air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), is linked to cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and premature deaths. According to the latest figures from the European Environment Agency (EEA), exposure to PM2.5 led to 4,150 premature deaths in Belgium in 2022, and exposure to NO₂ led to 1,230 premature deaths.

The highest concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter are measured in the area near the Kleine Ring. The WHO-recommended values ​​are also not yet achieved on the secondary monitoring network. None of the WHO recommendations are met for particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) either.

Ozone and carbon

Ozone peaks in Europe are decreasing, while background concentrations remain stable or increase. Both European and WHO standards are met regarding sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. Finally, black carbon concentrations have fallen sharply in recent years.