LIFE-NEEVE analyses the regulatory and market framework to reduce Non-Exhaust Emissions (NEE)
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The LIFE-NEEVE project, funded by the European Commission's LIFE Programme, advances in the development of technologies for the measurement and reduction of Non-Exhaust Emissions (NEE) in road transport. In this context, a specific analysis of the regulatory and business environment has been carried out to facilitate the future exploitation of the project results.
Non-exhaust emissions – from brake, tyre and pavement wear and particulate resuspension – account for a growing proportion of particulate pollution in Europe. In the UK, they have been estimated to account for 73% of primary PM10 emissions and 60% of PM2.5. Forecasts for the European Union indicate that they could reach 94% of total PM10 and 90% of PM2.5 by 2030. These particles include mineral, metal, and microplastic material, with documented effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health.
LIFE-NEEVE aims to design, develop and demonstrate innovative techniques for real-time measurement and reduction of these emissions. Among the key results of the project are on-board particle monitoring systems (mass, number and distribution), advanced chemical analysis and the development of less polluting components for brakes, tires and road surfaces, validated in pilot demonstrations.
The consortium, led by the University of Seville, is made up of specialised entities such as VTI (Swedish National Institute for Road and Transport Research), Paudire, HORIBA, RDT, ICER-Brakes and other technical and industrial partners.
Within this framework, a new documentation has been prepared, focused on the study of regulatory and business needs and barriers, which analyzes the European regulatory framework and the main obstacles to the transfer to the market of the technologies developed.
Analysis of the regulatory and market environment
The methodology has combined regulatory and technical review with structured consultations with agents in the sector through specific surveys. The analysis confirms that there is currently no specific European legislation on NEE, although these emissions are indirectly addressed in air quality directives, tyre labelling regulations and future regulations such as Euro 7.
The expected impact of the project includes the generation of scientific evidence for the development of new technical standards, support for future specific regulations on brake and tyre wear, and the contribution to the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Zero Pollution Action Plan.
From a business perspective, the study identifies the need for regulatory harmonization, testing standards and economic mechanisms that facilitate the adoption of mitigation technologies.