Cleaner Air for Europe

Briefing 20-03-2023

The IA clearly identifies the current AAQDs' shortcomings, provides references to the updated WHO guidelines and lists the fitness check findings, stakeholders' opinions, and supporting data. It sets a general objective to further improve air quality in the EU and diminish the impact of air pollution on human health and the environment. It does not make it clear however whether the translation of the general objective into specific objectives, as formulated, fully addresses some relevant drivers. The IA considers 69 specific policy measures grouped in 4 clusters of 19 policy options (POs) and sub-options. It assesses the environmental, social and economic impacts of each measure and their potential costs/administrative burden based on a qualitative and, 'where possible' quantitative assessment. The IA is not clear on the three POs regarding the different levels of alignment with the WHO guidelines (PO I-1 to I-3); it states that they require a political decision, but then highlights the PO I 2 as the 'preferred option'. It also remains questionable how many of the other POs are real alternatives, as most are retained with differentiation on the level of sub-options only. The IA appears to be based on extensive public consultations, studies and supporting data, and consistently refers to them. Coherence with other EU legislation appears to be duly identified.