Oulu breathes the cleanest air in Europe

Oulu is officially one of the cleanest cities in Europe. In a recent study by the European Environment Agency (EEA), the city was ranked among the top cities in a comparison of air quality in 858 European cities. The air we breathe in Oulu is not only healthy but also exceptionally clean - far cleaner than in many other major European cities.

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Cleanliness is driven by a northern location and wise urban planning

Oulu is officially the European Capital of Clean Air. A recent comparison by the European Environment Agency (EEA) Oulu ranked first 1, when 858 European cities were assessed for air quality. The study, based on concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), showed that Oulu has the cleanest breathable air on the continent. Oulu's number one position is no coincidence. The city is criss-crossed by parks, coastal paths and forest trails that bring nature into everyday life. For years, community planning has focused on light transport routes, cycling and sustainable mobility. In Oulu, you can get close to nature in no time - on foot, by bike or even on skis. The northern maritime climate and cool breezes clean the air effectively, and the city's investment in green infrastructure is visible and felt everywhere.

The study focused on how fine particles and nitrogen dioxide affect health. Particulate matter enters the lungs and bloodstream through inhalation and long-term exposure can increase the risk of heart and respiratory disease. Nitrogen dioxide, on the other hand, is particularly linked to transport emissions. In Oulu, both values are below WHO guidelines - and well below many other large cities.

Well-being and attractiveness for tourism

Clean air is a value that affects the well-being of residents - but it is also an increasingly important attraction for tourism. In Oulu, visitors can move around the city without worries, enjoying nature, events and culture without any concerns about quality.

The future Housing Fair area and expanding tourism offerings will rely heavily on Oulu being not only a vibrant and developing city - but also a healthy and fresh place to live and work.