More than 96% of the European population was exposed to PM2.5 concentrations exceeding the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline limit in 2022. Road transport is a primary source of particulate matter in urban areas.
As exhaust emissions decrease, non-exhaust emissions (NEEs) – particles from brake, tyre and road wear – are now a dominant source of urban particulate matter (PM).
In cities like Milan, Barcelona, and London, NEEs account for:
- 68-88% “from road transport" after PM10.
- 47-78% of PM2.5 from road transport.
Non-exhaust emissions snapshot
- 96% of Europe’s population was exposed to PM2.5 above WHO limits.
- 83% exceeded safe levels for PM10 exposure.
- >40% of brake wear becomes airborne, worsening air quality.
- 1-5% of tyre wear becomes airborne; the rest pollutes road dust, water and soil.
Battery electric vehicles brake wear emissions are 83% lower than for combustion engine vehicles, but lead to an increase in tyre wear of ca. 20% due to higher weight.
5× greater reduction in NEE from shifting travel to public transport vs. electrification alone.
