Ozone pollution increases across Europe, reaches Scandinavia amid heatwaves

Ground‑level ozone, a pollutant harmful to respiratory and heart systems, is increasing throughout Europe, according to atmospheric monitoring officials. Laurence Rouïl of the Copernicus atmospheric monitoring service said recent heatwaves have lifted ozone concentrations across much of the continent, even reaching traditionally cleaner areas such as Scandinavia. While Europe has reduced nitrogen‑oxide emissions over time, the pollutant’s ability to travel long distances and the influence of wildfires hinder further declines.

The situation is most severe in the Middle East, India, China and parts of Southeast Asia, where ozone exposure remains extreme. Rising ozone threatens public health across Europe, extending to regions previously considered low‑risk.