Europe urges governments to tackle air pollution for cancer reduction

Brussels – A landmark report from the European Code Against Cancer delivers a stark warning: aggressive action on air pollution is a necessary component in slashing cancer rates across the continent. The Code, updated for the first time since its inception in 1987, now provides concrete policy recommendations to governments.

Governments face pressure to meet who air quality standards

Dr. Sylvia Jochems of Utrecht University, a key architect of the Code, stressed the urgency. “Policymakers must immediately align with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global air quality guidelines for outdoor air, alongside tackling indoor pollution and advancing climate goals.” The report estimates that meeting these guidelines could reduce lung cancer mortality by over 10%.

While tobacco remains the leading cause of lung cancer, particle pollution accounts for 28,000 cases annually in Europe. Mounting evidence also links air pollution to increased risks of bladder, kidney, and brain cancers, impacting survival rates.

The Code specifically targets indoor sources like wood burning. It advocates for phasing out solid fuels for heating and cooking, offering incentives for cleaner energy systems like heat pumps, solar power, and geothermal.

Beyond individual action: systemic change demanded

The report emphasizes the need for proactive measures, including strategic urban planning to reduce traffic and promote active transportation. It urges governments to avoid locating schools and care facilities near busy roads, suggesting indoor air filters as a mitigation strategy where relocation isn’t feasible.

A complete transition away from combustion for electricity and heating across the EU – encompassing coal and biomass – is a central demand. Cities must be redesigned to prioritize people over vehicles. The Code also calls on individuals to reduce their contribution by avoiding wood and coal burning and opting for public transport, walking, or cycling.

The urgency is clear: the air we breathe has profound implications for public health. The Code’s recommendations represent a significant shift toward preventative, policy-driven action, a necessary response to a growing public health crisis.