The European Commission has decided to refer Poland to the Court of Justice of the European Union. This action addresses Poland’s failure to ensure that individuals and environmental NGOs can challenge air quality plans, as required by the Ambient Air Quality Directive (Directive 2008/50/EC).
The Ambient Air Quality Directive aims to protect human health and the environment by mandating that Member States adopt air quality plans when pollution limits are exceeded. The directive also emphasizes the importance of public access to justice under the Aarhus Convention and EU Treaties, allowing citizens and NGOs to contest inadequate governmental actions.
In May 2020, the Commission issued a formal notice to Poland, followed by a reasoned opinion in September 2022. The Commission now deems Poland’s efforts insufficient, prompting this referral to the Court of Justice.
The Aarhus Convention is an international agreement focused on environmental democracy, granting people rights related to environmental information and participation. Air pollution remains a significant health threat in Europe, contributing to chronic diseases and premature deaths. It also impacts ecosystems through acidification and eutrophication.
A revised Ambient Air Quality Directive was adopted in October 2024, setting new standards for 2030 aligned with WHO guidelines. This revision aims for better health protection and progress toward zero pollution by 2050.
Maciej Berestecki serves as spokesperson for this issue, while Anna Gray is available as a press officer for further inquiries.
