France

Country in Europe

In brief

Air pollution PM2.5, µg/m³: 8.2 (2023). World rank 32 of 200 (1 = best); in Europe, 9 of 43. CO₂ emissions, tonnes per person: 4 (2024). World rank 133 of 203 (1 = best); in Europe, 11 of 40. Protected areas: 36.7% (2025). World rank 19 of 213 (1 = best); in Europe, 9 of 46. From 2015 to 2025: protected areas 23.2% → 36.7%.

Air and emissions

Air pollution PM2.5, µg/m³: 8.2 2023
CO₂ emissions, tonnes per person: 4 2024
All greenhouse gases, tonnes CO₂e per person: 5.5 2024

Nature and water

Forest cover: 32.9% 2024
Protected areas: 36.7% 2025
Renewable fresh water, m³ per person: 2,933 2022
Water stress, share of fresh water withdrawn: 21.4% 2022