Case C-723/17 Craeynest: New Developments for the Right to Clean Air in the EU

Abstract

Abstract This analysis considers and reviews the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union in Case C-723/17 Lies Craeynest and Others v Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest and Brussels Instituut voor Milieubeheer [2019] ECLI:EU:C:2019:533, which followed a preliminary reference by the Nederlandstalige rechtbank van eerste aanleg Brussel (Dutch-language Court of First Instance of Brussels) concerning the interpretation of Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe. The Craeynest judgment strengthens the right to clean air in the European Union, offering new tools for citizens to hold authorities accountable before national courts. It also provides key clarifications about the intensity of judicial review of scientifically complex assessments. In this regard, the Craeynest case has the potential to strengthen access to justice beyond air quality issues in other environmental matters.