Air pollution in Spain exceeds WHO ozone limits

A report by Ecologistas en Acción on air quality in Spain for 2025 indicates a significant rise in ozone pollution, particularly in Andalusia and Catalonia. In the Campo de Gibraltar region, ozone levels worsened and remained above the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), despite staying within current Spanish legal limits. The report attributes these high concentrations to intense industrial activity, maritime traffic, and heavy road traffic on the A-7 highway, as well as high temperatures and solar radiation during summer heatwaves.

In Catalonia, the situation is similarly concerning regarding future standards. The study finds that 58.6% of the Catalan population—approximately 4.8 million people—was exposed to ozone levels that exceed the European Union's upcoming 2030 limits. While nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter levels showed slight improvements, ozone levels reached their highest point since 2017. The report links the increase in ozone to climate change and rising oil combustion.