Pollen levels in Europe reached “extremely high” concentrations this Spring, especially in northeastern countries such as Finland, according to the European Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS).
CAMS reported a seasonal increase in the release and transport of grass and olive pollen in southern Europe in late May 2025, while birch pollen reached extreme levels in northeastern regions. Birch pollen levels were notably high over Finland, causing symptoms even in individuals without known allergies.
Climate change is leading to an increased and prolonged presence of pollen from certain plants throughout the year, CAMS notes.
According to allergists, the prevalence of respiratory allergies has tripled in the past 30 years. The World Health Organisation predicts that by 2050, half of Europe’s adult population could suffer from these allergies.
Wildfires in northwestern Europe have also had an impact on air quality.
CAMS highlighted that in April, the UK’s fire emissions were the second-highest since 2003, while the Netherlands recorded wildfire emissions that were unprecedented for that time of year.
