Explanation of Key Trends - Fine Particulate Matter (PM₂.₅)

Germany has made a commitment to reduce particulate matter emissions. The revised Gothenburg Protocol and the revised NEC Directive both define emission reduction targets relative to a 2005 base year, mandating 26% (2020) and 43% (2030) reductions respectively.

While Germany's compliance with these obligations is not discussed here, further information on this subject can be found in Chapter 9 - Projections and Chapter 11 - Adjustments and Emission Ceiling Exceedance.

Total PM₂.₅ emissions dropped by 59.9% between 1995 and 2020. The Main Drivers for PM₂.₅ emissions are Fuel Combustion (NFR 1.A) with 72% of total 1995 emissions and a 65% reduction between 1995-2020 and as a sum the Industrial Processes (NFR 2) with about 21% of total 1995 emissions and a 51% reduction between 1995-2020.

Within both National totals and NFR 1.A, Transport (NFR 1.A.3) is responsible for the biggest part of PM₂.₅ emissions. Here, about 77% of 2019 PM₂.₅ transport emissions are induced by Road Transport (NFR 1.A.3.b), caused by two third directly by fuel consumption (NFR 1.A.3.b.i - v) and the other third by road abrasion and tyre and brake wear (NFR 1.A.3.b.vi - vii).

PM₂.₅ Emissions 1990-2020

Total Emissions (kt)														Trend: latest compared to
1995	2000	2005	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	1995	last years
202	166	135	119	114	113	111	103	102	97	95	94	90	81	-59.9%

PM₂.₅ trend by sector

PM₂.₅ trend by sector, from 2005