Paris has cut air pollution by half. Here's how

Once among the most polluted cities in Europe, Paris has made remarkable progress in cleaning up its air. Since 2005, fine particle (PM2.5) levels have dropped by 55%, and nitrogen dioxide levels have halved. This has led to a one-third reduction in pollution-related deaths between 2010 and 2019.

The transformation is largely due to long-term, people-focused policies led by Mayor Anne Hidalgo. By 2026, Paris will add 180km of new cycle paths and 130,000 bike parking spots. Traffic lights now prioritize cyclists, buses, and trams over cars, and access to central areas is restricted for most vehicles.

In a bold move, the city plans to remove 60,000 parking spots by 2030, converting them into green spaces. The public is backing the effort—Parisians voted to triple SUV parking fees in 2024. These changes reflect a shift in urban values toward sustainability and health.

Paris is part of Breathe Cities, a $30 million initiative from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the Clean Air Fund, and C40 Cities. With a goal to reach 100 cities by 2030, the program supports efforts to reduce air pollution worldwide.

Watch the video to see how Paris is leading by example in the global fight against air pollution.