The report released by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Ministry of Health reveals that in 2023, air pollution contributed to 5,510 premature deaths—far higher than previous estimates. The vast majority of these deaths were linked to exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), with additional cases attributed to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and ozone exposure. Concentration of PM2.5 in Israel is more than 3 times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual air quality guidelines.
Israel’s air quality standards are insufficient
The official figures for 2023 are nearly double earlier projections due to updated WHO findings on the health impacts of air pollution, as well as Israel’s 2022 revisions to its air quality target values. Each year, hundreds of air quality violations occur across Israel. But even in areas that formally meet environmental standards, these thresholds remain insufficient to protect public health, and air pollution is the most serious environmental health risk in Israel today.
Adam Teva V’Din’s air quality scientist calls for accelerated action
“This report should serve as an urgent wake-up call for policymakers. Israel’s environmental policies have long been hindered by underestimations, complacency, and weak enforcement,” says Dr Arye Vanger. “The National Air Quality Strategy on Air Pollution must be updated and aligned as closely as possible with target values –without delay.”
Israel would do well to tackle transportation-related pollution more aggressively, expand the use of electric buses, and improve overall enforcement of air pollution regulations. Dr. Vanger adds that the government must tackle the burgeoning crisis of illegal burning of waste, which contributes significantly to pollution levels nationwide.
