Air pollution from petrol and diesel vehicles remains one of Europe’s most harmful public-health threats. Emissions from internal combustion engines are major sources of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These are pollutants with no safe exposure level, as well as well-established links to heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, asthma, COPD, diabetes, dementia, pregnancy complications, and impaired development in children. Across Europe, air pollution contributes to more than 300,000 premature deaths every year, with the heaviest burden falling on children, older people, those with chronic conditions, and socio-economically disadvantaged communities.
To protect public health, the EU committed to ending the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2035. This phase-out is a vital measure to reduce toxic air pollution, strengthen health system resilience, and advance a fairer, cleaner, and healthier Europe. Recent signals from parts of the automotive industry and some Member States suggest that the 2035 commitment may be weakened or delayed.
For this reason, EPHA joins organisations representing over 85,000 health and medical professionals in issuing an open letter urging national governments to stand firm. Rolling back the phase-out would prolong Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels, increase avoidable illness, and undermine citizens’ right to clean air.
Phasing out combustion engines will mean fewer premature deaths, healthier children, reduced healthcare costs, and a more sustainable and competitive European economy. The transition can – and must – be done equitably, minimising negative effects on employment, in cooperation between governments, industry, and citizens.