Oulu is officially one of the cleanest cities in Europe. In a recent study by the European Environment Agency (EEA), the city ranked among the top when comparing air quality across 858 European cities. The air in Oulu is not only healthy but also exceptionally clean – significantly cleaner than in many major European metropolitan areas.
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Oulu – The Official Clean Air Capital of Europe
Oulu has officially been named the clean air capital of Europe. In a recent comparison by the European Environment Agency (EEA), Oulu ranked first out of 858 European cities assessed for air quality. The study, based on fine particulate matter concentrations (PM2.5), revealed that the air in Oulu is the cleanest on the entire continent.
This top ranking is no coincidence. Oulu is interlaced with parks, waterfront trails, and forest paths that integrate nature into daily life. For years, city planning has emphasized sustainable mobility, such as cycling, pedestrian routes, and efficient public transport. In Oulu, nature is always just a step away – whether on foot, by bike, or even on skis. The northern marine climate and cool breezes naturally purify the air, while the city’s investment in green infrastructure is both visible and tangible throughout the urban environment.
The study focused on how fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) impact health. PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases with long-term exposure. Nitrogen dioxide is primarily linked to traffic emissions. In Oulu, levels of both pollutants are well below the WHO guideline values – and significantly lower than in many larger European cities.
Wellbeing and Appeal in Tourism
Clean air is a vital factor for residents’ well-being – but it is also an increasingly important attraction in tourism. In Oulu, visitors can explore the city with ease and enjoy nature, events, and culture without concerns about air quality.
The upcoming Housing Fair area and Oulu’s expanding tourism offerings are strongly built on the fact that Oulu is not only a vibrant and evolving city – but also a healthy and refreshing place to be and to live.