• Tackling climate change together The EU has always been a leading advocate of environmental protection on the world stage. With climate change recognised as a major threat to future well-being, it has committed to ambitious action at home and is working to secure an international agreement.
  • Looking into the deep What will be the impact of climate change on deep-sea ecosystems? How do species interact in remote parts of the oceans? What are the human impacts in these areas? How can we use the oceans in a more sustainable manner? The HERMIONE project is looking into these urgent questions.
  • Greener cities From air pollution to rising levels of waste generation, the roots of many environmental problems are found in cities, but so too are many of the solutions. The EU pursues a range of actions to promote better urban environments.
  • Throwing new light on energy consumption Old energy-consuming light bulbs were replaced in September 2009, which means that the EU will emit 32 million tonnes of CO2 less than previously. The new Union rules have introduced energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs in the market place, which use less power and last longer.
  • Neighbourhood grids promise energy gains European researchers are creating technology that will treat neighbourhoods like a miniature power grid, sharing energy generated at each house, and promising huge energy savings.
  • Harnessing renewable energy sources With climate change threatening to transform our planet, people and governments are increasingly looking for new sources of clean energy. The EU is investing in harnessing renewable energy sources, such as the sun, wind and water, to provide sustainable and clean alternatives to fossil fuels for the future.
  • Waste away! The EU produces around 1.3 billion tonnes of waste every year – some 40 million tonnes of which is hazardous. This amounts to about 3.5 tonnes of solid waste for every man, woman and child, according to European Environment Agency statistics. The EU’s strategy on waste prevention and recycling is making a vital contribution to the quality of life of its citizens, both now and in the future.
  • Safer chemicals within REACH Although chemicals are very useful, and indeed necessary, many chemical products are extremely dangerous for the people who come into contact with them and for the environment. The EU’s REACH Regulation aims to ensure a high level of protection for humans and their environment, and to promote better understanding and control of chemical substances.
  • NATURA 2000 – protecting Europe’s biodiversity The immense variety of life on Earth – also called biodiversity – is what makes our planet not only habitable but beautiful. Recognising the importance of our natural heritage, the EU has built up the largest coherent network of protected natural areas in the world – Natura2000.
  • The EU Ecolabel – promoting responsible consumption With concern for the environment high on the agenda, consumers are looking for more environment-friendly products. The EU Ecolabel scheme is helping consumers and industry make a better choice for the environment.
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