Air Quality Challenges in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region

The PACA region combines intense sunshine, strong appeal, and large industrial and port areas—Étang de Berre, Fos, Martigues—all factors that make ozone its major challenge. This summer pollutant, formed under the influence of the sun, is the primary cause of episodes of poor air quality, particularly around Aix-en-Provence and Martigues.

The overall trend is downward for most pollutants (between 2012 and 2022, nitrogen oxide emissions fell by about 28%), except for ozone, which has remained stable for the past two decades. In 2024, more than four in ten residents remained exposed to ozone levels above the target value, and nitrogen dioxide still exceeds the thresholds near major roads in Marseille and Nice. Fine particulate matter, although declining, continues to be driven by residential heating and dust carried in from the Sahara.

If this trend continues at the same pace, European limit values for 2030 will continue to be exceeded in urban centers. In response to these challenges—measuring, diagnosing, treating, and raising awareness—FIMEA members in the South region provide practical expertise in metrology, pollution control, technical assessment, and training.

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Members in the PACA region