Indicator 9.70 Air emission intensity of industry

This indicator measures the emissions intensity of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from the manufacturing sector (NACE Rev. 2 sector ‘C’). Air emissions are defined as flows of gaseous and particulate materials emitted into the atmosphere. Fine and coarse particulates (PM10) are less than 10 micrometres in diameter and can be carried deep into the lungs, where they can cause inflammation and exacerbate the condition of people suffering from heart and lung diseases. Fine particulates (PM2.5) are less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter and are therefore a subset of the PM10 particles. Their negative health impacts are more serious than PM10 because they can be drawn further into the lungs and may be more toxic. Emission intensity is calculated by dividing the sector’s PM emissions by its gross value added (GVA), which is defined as output (at basic prices) minus intermediate consumption (at purchaser prices).

Indicator is used to monitor progress towards SDG 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure, which is embedded in the European Commission’s 2024-2029 Priorities under ‘A new era for European defence and security’.

SDG 9 recognises the importance of technological progress and innovation for finding lasting solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges such as the creation of new jobs and promotion of resource and energy efficiency. To foster innovation and entrepreneurship, SDG 9 also seeks to increase access to financial services for small-scale enterprises and to bridge the digital divide by increasing access to information and communication technologies. With its Clean Industrial Deal from February 2025, the European Commission outline concrete actions to turn decarbonisation into a driver of growth for European industries. This includes lowering energy prices, creating quality jobs and the right conditions for companies to thrive.

The long-term objective for the indicator is to measure the progress towards the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.