Towards a greener and more sustainable Europe
EU citizens benefit from some of the highest environmental standards in the world. The EU and national governments have set clear objectives to guide European environment policy until 2020 and a vision beyond that, of where to be by 2050, with the support of dedicated research programmes, legislation and funding:
- protect, conserve and enhance the EU’s natural capital
- turn the EU into a resource-efficient, green, and competitive low-carbon economy
- safeguard EU citizens from environment-related pressures and risks to health and wellbeing
- EU environmental priorities
- Summaries of EU environmental legislation
Work is ongoing on many fronts to protect the EU’s endangered species and natural areas, ensure safe drinking and bathing water improve air quality and waste management, and reduce the effects of harmful chemicals.
Environmental protection and innovation help to create new business and employment opportunities, which stimulate further investment. Green growth is at the heart of EU policy to ensure that Europe’s economic growth is environmentally sustainable. The EU also plays a key role in promoting sustainable development at a global level.
Related events and information
- Find upcoming environmental events across EU institutions and locations
- Browse the library for publications on the environment
- Environmental teaching materials for students of all ages
- Infographic - Climate change costs lives and money
- Infographic - How is the EU financing the transition to climate neutrality?
- Infographic - EU chemicals strategy for a more sustainable and toxic-free environment
- Stay connected through social media