Air pollution trends in the heating and cooling sector in the EU-27 : a forward look to 2030 : perspectives based on the national energy and climate plans

The heating and cooling sector is an important contributor to air pollution, with various factors influencing the trends observed in pollutant emissions. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of the sector. The transition from conventional to cleaner technologies in the heating and cooling sector in the EU-27 offers many compelling benefits, such as significantly reducing air pollution levels and energy demand. This transition can not only improve air quality and public health but also contribute to mitigating climate change and preserving ecosystems. Decreasing heating and cooling demand is crucial in facilitating the transition to a low-carbon future. While reducing demand though energy efficiency initiatives is important, this alone is insufficient to achieve carbon neutrality. A comprehensive strategy for the decarbonisation of the heating and cooling sector is essential, involving the implementation of a low-carbon energy mix, heating and cooling technologies that are energy efficient and the use of clean energy carriers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. In this context, we provide insights into trends in energy indicators and air pollutant emissions and technological shifts towards cleaner options. We also assess the availability of information for projecting the levels of air pollutant emissions in the heating and cooling sector by 2030. By examining the factors shaping these trends, we aim to underscore the importance of reducing air pollution emissions related to the sector.