The report, titled “Pollution and mental health: current scientific evidence”, reviews scientific findings on air pollution, environmental noise and chemical exposure in relation to depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. It also outlines policy implications in the context of the EU Zero Pollution Action Plan.
According to the briefing, a growing body of research indicates a correlation between exposure to air pollutants, noise and certain chemicals and the prevalence or onset of mental health disorders. While causality has not yet been conclusively established, the available evidence suggests that environmental pollution may act as a contributing factor alongside genetic, social, economic and lifestyle determinants.
The EEA notes that the prevalence and incidence of mental health disorders in Europe have increased over the past 25 years. In 2023, mental health conditions represented the sixth largest burden of disease in the European Union and were the eighth most common cause of death.
In the field of air pollution, studies indicate that exposure during critical stages of brain development, including in utero, childhood and early adolescence, is associated with structural and functional changes in the brain. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) has been linked to a higher prevalence and incidence of depression. Short-term peaks in air pollution have been associated with a worsening of schizophrenia symptoms.
Research on environmental noise shows that increasing levels of road traffic noise are correlated with a measurable rise in the risk of depression and anxiety. Exposure to environmental noise has also been associated with a higher prevalence of behavioural issues in children. In addition, statistical analyses indicate a 2.2 per cent increase in suicide rates per 10 decibel increase in railway noise. A meta-analysis identified a 12 per cent increase in depression risk per 10 decibel increase in aircraft noise, measured as Lden.
The briefing also addresses chemical exposure. Prenatal or childhood exposure to lead (Pb) has been associated with depression and schizophrenia. Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke is consistently linked to higher rates of depression and schizophrenia, particularly among children and pregnant women. Studies further report associations between prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and depression and anxiety in childhood.
While further research is required to clarify causal mechanisms, the EEA states that the findings support the full implementation of existing EU environmental legislation and continued efforts to reduce pollution exposure. The report also refers to the One Health approach, which considers the interconnections between human, animal and environmental health. In addition to emission reduction measures, the briefing highlights the potential contribution of nature-based solutions, including access to green and blue spaces, to mental wellbeing, physical activity and social cohesion. Therapeutic approaches such as horticulture, structured outdoor exercise and forest-based interventions have been studied in this context.
The EEA concludes that achieving the objectives of the EU Zero Pollution Action Plan, including further reductions in air, noise and chemical pollution and improved access to natural environments, could contribute to improved mental health outcomes across Europe.
