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% (by 2020) and 43% (by 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.

Between 1995 and 2024, Total PM_2.5 emissions declined by 62.0%.

The main drivers for PM_2.5 emissions are Fuel Combustion (NFR 1.A) with 73% of total 1995 emissions and a 69% reduction between 1995 and 2024 and, as a sum, the Industrial Processes (NFR 2) with about 21% of total 1995 emissions and a 52% reduction between 1995 and 2024.

Within both National totals and NFR 1.A, Transport (NFR 1.A.3) is responsible for the biggest part of PM_2.5 emissions. Here, about 88% of 2024 PM_2.5 transport emissions are induced by Road Transport (NFR 1.A.3.b). About one quarter (25%) of these emissions are directly caused by fuel combustion (NFRs 1.A.3.b.i-iv) whereas 75% stem from tyre and brake wear (1.A.3.b.vi) and road abrasion (vii).

Table: PM_2.5 Emissions 1990-2024, in kilotonnes [kt]