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.

Between 1995 and 2023, Total PM_2.5 emissions declined by 60.8%.

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 2023 and, as a sum, the Industrial Processes (NFR 2) with about 21% of total 1995 emissions and a 48% reduction between 1995 and 2023.

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 77% of 2019 PM_2.5 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).

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