Ioannina is the most polluted city in Greece

According to the 2024 findings by IQAir, fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 remains a major threat. These particles, primarily emitted from the burning of fossil fuels, wildfires, and dust storms, are among the most dangerous pollutants.

Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 is strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, strokes, lung conditions, and cancer — major causes of premature deaths globally.

Beyond human health, air pollution also damages ecosystems, harming crops and forests, and causing significant economic losses.

Experts warn that Greece is particularly vulnerable and that urgent action is needed to protect public health and biodiversity.

The report ranks the ten most polluted areas in Greece based on annual average PM2.5 concentration levels:

Ioannina (Epirus)
Plagiari (Thermi Municipality)
Ellispontos (Kozani)
Aliartos (Viotia)
Elefsina (Attica)
Vasilika (Thessaloniki)
Trilofos (Thessaloniki)
Orestiada (Evros)
Thessaloniki
Lykovrysi (Attica)
Environmental advocates emphasize that Greece must accelerate efforts to reduce emissions and strengthen policies aimed at improving air quality.

The continued rise in pollution levels poses a growing threat to both public health and the environment.