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October 2014

24/10/2014: 12 cities apply for European Green Capital Award 2017

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16/10/2014: Commission urges Malta to refrain from finch trapping

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16/10/2014: European Commission urges Italy to address severe pollution issues at Europe's biggest steel plant

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16/10/2014: Commission takes Romania to Court over toxic tailing pond

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16/10/2014: Commission takes Poland to Court over failings in end-of-life vehicles legislation

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16/10/2014: European Commission takes Portugal back to Court for inadequate waste water treatment, asks for fines

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16/10/2014: Commission takes the Netherlands to court over failure to protect animals used for scientific purposes, asks for fines

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September 2014

29/09/2014: Commission consults the public on criteria to identify Endocrine Disruptors

The European Commission has launched an on-line consultation to help define criteria for endocrine disruptors as required by the regulations on biocidal and plant protection products. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with hormone systems, which may lead to harmful effects on health and the environment. Input is sought from stakeholders and the public on various options for the criteria and for their implementation.

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25/09/2014: European Commission asks Court to fine Greece for inadequate management of hazardous waste

The European Commission is referring Greece back to the European Court of Justice for poor treatment of hazardous waste. Five years after the first ruling, Greece is still failing to comply with EU standards. The Commission is therefore asking the Court to impose fines, proposing a lump sum of EUR 14 904 736 and a daily penalty payment of EUR 72 864 until the obligations are fulfilled.

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22/09/2014: 17 companies nominated for the 2014 European Business Awards for the Environment

Rome, 19 September– The shortlist for the 2014 European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) has been revealed, following a two-day jury meeting in Rome, Italy. The 17 finalists come from 10 countries. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Lyon on 1st December 2014 at the Pollutec exhibition of environmental technologies in Lyon, France. The European Business Awards for the Environment are awarded to eco-innovation companies that successfully combine innovation, competitiveness and outstanding environmental performance.

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16/09/2014: "Our streets, our choice" – EU launches 2014 European Mobility Week

Over 2000 European towns and cities are expected to participate in the 13th edition of European Mobility Week, an annual European campaign about getting around town in a sustainable way. Starting today, national and local campaigners are organising various events. The aim of this year's European Mobility Week, with the slogan "Our streets, our choice", is to encourage citizens to 'reclaim' urban spaces to create the city they want to live in.

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08/09/2014: Almost all Europeans say protecting the environment is important to them

Three years on from the most recent similar Eurobarometer survey, it is clear that, despite the economic crisis, Europeans’ concern about the environment has not diminished. In an overwhelming consensus, 95 % of the 28.000 interviewed citizens said that protecting the environment is important to them personally and many think more can be done.

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August 2014

19/08/2014: Mercury – Have your say on the EU implementation of the Minamata Convention

The European Commission has launched an on-line consultation on issues related to the ratification and implementation by the EU of the Minamata Convention on mercury. The Convention was signed in October 2013. At that time, it was the 1st international environmental agreement concluded in a decade. It is a global treaty that aims to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury, and aims to phase out many of its current uses.

Read more (IP/14/933)

05/08/2014: Water re-use in Europe – what do you think?

Water re-use is not widespread in Europe. Most wastewater from urban treatment plants is simply flushed out into rivers and lakes. But increasing re-use would help us respond to the increasing problems of water scarcity and drought, while reducing the risk of contamination from wastewater and lowering treatment costs. Re-use of water also has a lower environmental impact than getting it from other sources such as inter-regional water transfers or desalination.

Read more (IP/14/904)

July 2014

10/07/2014: Commission urges Italy to ensure that water intended for human consumption is healthy and clean

The European Commission is opening infringement proceedings against Italy for its failure to ensure that water intended for human consumption meets European standards. Water contamination from arsenic and fluoride is a long-standing problem in Italy, and for the Latium Region in particular.

Read more (IP/14/816)

10/07/2014: Commission takes Portugal to Court over waste water treatment

The European Commission is taking Portugal to Court for its failure to ensure that waste water from small agglomerations is properly treated. The lack of adequate collection and treatment systems, required by EU legislation for small agglomerations since 2005, poses risks to human health and to inland waters and the marine environment.

Read more (IP/14/815)

10/07/2014: Commission takes Spain to Court over non-compliant landfills and high-speed rail link

The European Commission is taking Spain to Court for two (unrelated) breaches of environment legislation. The first concerns poor waste management: despite earlier warnings from the Commission, numerous Spanish landfills are still operating in breach of EU landfill legislation. The second case contains a planned rail link between Seville and Almeria, for which no adequate environmental impact assessment was carried out.

Read more (IP/14/814)

02/07/2014: Live and work in better buildings

Today the Commission adopted new proposals which aim to reduce the environmental impacts of new and renovated buildings by increasing resource efficiency and improving the information available about the environmental performance of buildings.

Read more (IP/14/764)

02/07/2014: Higher recycling targets to drive transition to a Circular Economy with new jobs and sustainable growth

Today the Commission adopted proposals to turn Europe into a more circular economy and boost recycling in the Member States. Achieving the new waste targets would create 580 000 new jobs compared to today's performance, while making Europe more competitive and reducing demand for costly scarce resources. The proposals also mean lower environmental impacts and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The plans ask Europeans to recycle 70 % of municipal waste and 80 % of packaging waste by 2030, and ban burying recyclable waste in landfill as of 2025. A target is also included for reducing marine litter along with food waste reduction objectives.

Read more (IP/14/763)

02/07/2014: Questions and answers on sustainable buildings

Read more (MEMO/14/451)

02/07/2014: Questions and answers on the Commission Communication "Towards a Circular Economy" and the Waste Targets Review

Read more (MEMO/14/450)

June 2014

30/06/2014: European Commission welcomes Outcome of first ever UN Environment Assembly

The first session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA), hosted by the Nairobi-based United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) last week concluded late Friday evening with 16 decisions and resolutions and a Ministerial Outcome Document to encourage international action on major environmental issues. More than 1,200 high-level participants from 160 countries, including Environment Ministers, UN officials, diplomatic and civil society delegations, participated in this historic first session of the UNEA, held under the theme “A Life of Dignity for All.”

Read more (IP/14/757)

30/06/2014: 80 per cent of Europeans want their country to waste less

According to a new survey, most European citizens think their own country is generating too much waste. The survey on the "Attitudes of Europeans towards Waste Management and Resource Efficiency" indicates that 96 % of respondents say it is important for them that Europe uses its resources more efficiently: 68 % say this is very important for them, and just 3 % of respondents say this issue is not important. Across the EU, nine out of ten respondents now sort paper/cardboard/beverage cartons (90 %), plastics (90%) and glass (88 %), at least occasionally, while three quarters sort household hazardous waste (79 %), metal cans (78 %), electrical waste (76 %) and kitchen waste (74 %). There are, however, major differences between Member States, with replies ranging from 99 % (paper in Austria) to 28 % (hazardous waste in Romania).

Read more (IP/14/750)

25/06/2014: €239 million available in 2014 for project proposals

The European Commission has launched the first call for proposals under the LIFE funding programme for projects dedicated to environment. The LIFE sub-programme for environment will provide €238.86 million in 2014 to develop and implement innovative ways to respond to environmental challenges across Europe, focusing on the conservation of nature and biodiversity, resource efficiency and environmental governance and information.

Read more (IP/14/722)

24/06/2014: Ljubljana European Green Capital 2016

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, has won the European Green Capital Award for 2016. The award was presented this afternoon by EU Environment Commissioner, Janez Potočnik, at a ceremony in Copenhagen, which holds the 2014 European Green Capital title. Ljubljana received recognition for raising environmental awareness amongst its citizens, for its sustainability strategy 'Vision 2025', its implementation of a range of urban green measures over the past decade and its impressive transportation network.

Read more (IP/14/719)

23/06/2014: Commission asks citizens about Europe's drinking water

The European Commission has today launched a public consultation on EU drinking water policy, to see where improvements could be made. The consultation is a concrete response to Right2Water, the first successful European Citizens' Initiative.

10/06/2014: Commission launches new platform to help resolve social conflicts over large carnivores

Europe's brown bear, wolf, wolverine, lynx – at least one of these species can now be found in 21 EU Member States. After a lengthy period of decline their numbers are growing once more, but coexistence with man can be problematic. In an effort to solve the social and economic problems that sometimes result from this new expansion, the European Commission has launched a platform where farmers, conservationists, hunters, landowners and scientists can exchange ideas and best practices on sharing the same land with large carnivores.

Read more (IP/14/648)

10/06/2014: Questions and answers on access and benefit-sharing

Read more (MEMO/14/411)

06/06/2014: Halting biodiversity loss – the EU no net loss initiative

The European Commission has published an on-line consultation to seek the public's views on a future EU initiative to halt biodiversity loss. Biodiversity – the natural world that surrounds us – is in decline around the world, often as a result of human activities. Even when efforts are made to minimize such damage, there is often a residual impact. If we are to stop the decline, losses resulting from human activities must be balanced by gains: when gains are at least equivalent to the losses, the principle of "No Net Loss" is respected.

Read more (IP/14/645)

02/06/2014: Environment: It's the Ecology, Stupid

Europe's largest environment conference – Green Week – will wade into the economic debate this year. Under the banner “Circular economy – saving resources, creating jobs” the 3000 participants will discuss how Europe must move from its current linear economic model towards a more circular one.

Read more (IP/14/621)

02/06/2014: Commission presents proposal to address global poverty and sustainable development

The European Commission adopted a Communication to contribute to the EU position in international negotiations on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as the follow-up to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Read more (IP/14/620)

May 2014

27/05/2014: Water quality excellent at most of Europe’s bathing sites

The water at Europe’s beaches, rivers and lakes was generally of high quality in 2013, with more than 95 % of these sites meeting minimum requirements. Coastal performed slightly better than inland bathing waters, the data shows.

Read more (IP/14/603)

22/05/2014: First Natura 2000 Award winners announced

The winners of the first Natura 2000 Awards were announced at a ceremony in Brussels last night. The winners received trophies from the European Commissioner for the Environment, Janez Potočnik, along with members of the award Jury.

Read more (IP/14/584)

22/05/2014: New EU initiative to protect biodiversity and fight wildlife crime

Read more (MEMO/14/373)

15/05/2014: Impact assessment of projects now simplified

New legislation simplifying the rules for assessing the potential effects of projects on the environment enters into force today. The newly amended Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive will offer better protection for the environment while reducing administrative burdens stemming from EU law, in line with the European Commission's drive for smarter regulation. It will also enhance business certainty where public and private investments are concerned.

Read more (IP/14/559)

13/05/2014: Prioritise climate, environment, agree both sides of the Mediterranean

Ministers attending the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) meeting in Athens today issued a Declaration of their commitment to tackle the growing climate and environmental challenges facing the region. It is the first time climate change has been discussed at ministerial level within the UfM, a partnership promoting multilateral cooperation between 43 countries (28 EU Member States and 15 Mediterranean countries).

Read more (Statement)...

April 2014

30/04/2014: European Commission provides €282.6 million for 225 new environment and climate projects

The European Commission has today approved funding for 225 new projects under the LIFE+ programme, the European Union's environment fund. The projects selected were submitted by beneficiaries in all 28 Member States and cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, climate change, environmental policy and information and communication on environmental issues across the EU. Overall, they represent a total investment of some €589.3 million, of which the EU will provide €282.6 million.

Read more (IP/14/486)...

30/04/2014: The 2013 LIFE projects

Read more (MEMO/14/320)...

22/04/2014: "Let's Clean Up Europe" on 10 May

Every year, millions of tonnes of litter end up in Europe's streets, oceans, beaches, forests and natural areas. And every year millions of Europeans get out in their neighborhoods to clean up in voluntary actions. "Let's Clean up Europe" is an initiative that aims to encourage more such actions, to raise awareness about the scale of the litter and waste problems, and to encourage changes in behaviour. The event is being coordinated by the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR).

Read more (IP/14/437)...

17/04/2014: Commission welcomes Parliament's adoption of Maritime Spatial Planning legislation

The European Parliament today endorsed a Directive for Maritime Spatial Planning which should help Member States develop plans to better coordinate the various activities that take place at sea, ensuring they are as efficient and sustainable as possible. In coastal and maritime areas, many activities compete for the same space and resources: fishing grounds, aquaculture farms, marine protected areas exist alongside maritime infrastructures such as cables, pipelines, shipping lanes and oil, gas and wind installations. The new Directive will help avoid potential conflicts between such diverse uses and create a stable environment attractive to investors, thereby contributing to sustainable growth.

Read more (IP/14/459)...

17/04/2014: Questions and Answers on the Directive on Maritime Spatial Planning

Read more (MEMO/14/313)...

16/04/2014: Commission takes Austria to Court over failure to protect water quality on Schwarze Sulm river

The European Commission is taking Austria to Court for its failure to ensure adequate protection for the Schwarze Sulm river in Steiermark. In the Commission's view, the construction of a proposed power plant would cause a serious deterioration in the quality of the river, which is one of the longest undisturbed rivers in the region. The Commission is of the view that the regional authority failed to respect the water quality requirements of the Water Framework Directive when it authorised the hydropower project in 2007. Indeed, the permit in question was revoked by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Environment in 2009, but Austria's constitutional court dismissed that revocation on purely formal grounds in 2012. The permit therefore came back into force and can no longer be challenged before a national court. This led the Commission to open infringement proceedings in 2013, on the grounds that the permit for the power plant is not in line with the requirements of the Water Framework Directive. As building work now appears to have begun on the project, the Commission is referring the case to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/14/448)...

16/04/2014: April infringements package: main decisions

Read more (MEMO/14/293)...

10/04/2014: Experts meet to discuss how to better fight wildlife trafficking in the EU and globally

Following an invitation by the European Commission, 170 experts met today in Brussels to discuss how the EU can better fight wildlife trafficking.

Read more (IP/14/417)...

10/04/2014: Expert Conference on the EU Approach against Wildlife Trafficking

Following an invitation by the European Commission, experts are meeting today in Brussels to discuss how the EU can better fight wildlife trafficking. Discussions focus on how to strengthen enforcement within the EU, how to better fight organised wildlife crime and how to ensure a more strategic diplomatic and development support role for the EU against wildlife crime. The conference which starts at 9:30 will be streamed live on the web. The press release (IP/14/417) summarising the issues will be published after the conference (around 17.30).

Draft agenda

Live streaming

08/04/2014: European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme - 2014 award winners announced

The European Commission announced the winners of this year's European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme Awards in Hannover, Germany, last night. The six winning organisations were selected by an independent jury of environmental technology and eco-innovation experts. The winners all apply innovative solutions as a way of improving their environmental performance, demonstrating how important innovation is in the transition towards a circular and resource-efficient economy.

Read more (IP/14/390)...

03/04/2014: Essen, Ljubljana, Nijmegen, Oslo and Umeå shortlisted for European Green Capital 2016

The European Commission today announced that Essen (Germany), Ljubljana (Slovenia), Nijmegen (The Netherlands), Oslo (Norway) and Umeå (Sweden) have been selected as the five finalists to advance to the next stage of the European Green Capital 2016 Award. The Award is presented to one European city every year, commending its achievements in environmental sustainability. For the first year since its conception, cities across Europe with more than 100,000 inhabitants were eligible to apply; previously only cities with a population of 200,000 or more qualified.

Read more (IP/14/366)...

March 2014

28/03/2014: Commission takes Greece to court over failure to protect iconic species

The European Commission is taking Greece to Court for a failure to provide adequate protection for endangered sea turtles. The case concerns developments in Kyparissia Bay in the Western Peloponnese, one of the most important nesting beaches for caretta caretta loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean, and an area protected under EU legislation. A high number of developments and construction activities are being tolerated and given permits in the area, and the developments are having a significant negative effect on the endangered turtles. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/14/324)...

04/03/2014: The Declaration of HOPE

Yesterday I challenged the participants of the Healthy Oceans - Productive Ecosystems (HOPE) conference and asked them to prepare and agree on a call for action. Today I am pleased to receive the "Declaration of HOPE" they have endorsed. This Declaration offers some very good guidelines for our future work in this area. Now we have to make sure that these words will turn into action. The protection of marine environment deserves efforts from everybody. The European Commission, working with Member States, the Regional Sea Conventions and all stakeholders, stands ready to play its part.

The Declaration of HOPE

03/03/2014: New studies strengthen the case for boosting flood protection and switching to greener taxes

Two studies published by the European Commission today show how environment policy can spur economic growth by boosting flood protection and making more of a switch to greener taxes. One produces more evidence about the overall economic benefits from timely investment in defences against flooding, and the other highlights the advantages of moving the tax burden away from labour and towards resource use and pollution.

Read more (IP/14/202)...

February 2014

20/02/2014: Turning the tide on Europe's Oceans and Seas

A new report published today paints a worrying picture of Europe's seas. The Commission's analysis, which will be presented at the "Healthy Oceans – Productive Ecosystems" (HOPE) conference in Brussels on 3-4 March, shows a marine environment that will require urgent efforts...

Read more (IP/14/169)...

20/02/2014: European Commission takes Estonia to Court over Access to environmental Information

The European Commission is taking Estonia to Court over shortcomings in its legislation on access to information regarding the environment. Under EU legislation, Member States have to ensure that citizens have easy access to information on the environment held by public authorities.

Read more (IP/14/158)...

20/02/2014: Commission takes Denmark to Court over water management problems

The European Commission is taking Denmark to Court for a failure to present plans for managing its river basins. These plans are essential to put the measures in place to achieve the objective of 'good status' for Danish waters by 2015 and...

Read more (IP/14/157)...

20/02/2014: Commission takes action against UK for persistent air pollution problems

The Commission has launched legal proceedings against the UK for its failure to cut excessive levels of nitrogen dioxide, a toxic gas. Nitrogen dioxide is the main pre-cursor for ground-level ozone causing major respiratory problems and leading to premature death.

Read more (IP/14/154)...

07/02/2014: Commission consults on how EU can fight against dramatic increase in wildlife trafficking

The Commission has launched a public consultation on how the EU can be more effective in combating wildlife trafficking. This comes in response to a recent global surge in poaching and illegal wildlife trade, which is now at unprecedented levels for some species. More than 1000 rhinoceroses were poached in South Africa in 2013, compared to 13 in 2007, for example, and rhino horn is now more valuable than gold. The EU is a major destination market and an important transit point for illegal wildlife products, with organized crime playing an increasing role.

Read more (IP/14/123)...

07/02/2014: Questions and answers on wildlife trafficking

Read more (MEMO/14/91)...

04/02/2014: Generation Awake says Stop Wasting Waste! 

The latest phase of the European Commission's 'Generation Awake' campaign focuses on the environmental, economic, social and personal consequences of using resources unsustainably. The campaign aims to make consumers aware of the consequences their consumption patterns have on natural resources, illustrating the benefits if they choose to act differently. It centres round a fully interactive website available in all 24 official EU languages, where cartoon characters show the environmental impact of everyday purchasing decisions.

Read more (IP/14/104)...

January 2014

23/01/2014: European Commission takes Slovenia to Court for pollution problems from waste disposal

The European Commission is taking Slovenia to Court for its failure to comply with the requirements of EU waste legislation. The Commission's concerns relate to two illegal landfills containing hazardous waste, one near the centre of Celje, and another in nearby Bukovzlak. Landfills operating in breach of EU waste legislation can be a serious threat to human health and the environment. Slovenia had agreed to address the problem, but slow progress has led the Commission to call Slovenia before the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/14/51)...

23/01/2014: Commission takes Bulgaria to Court over illegal landfills

The European Commission is concerned that Bulgaria is failing to protect its citizens from the effects of bad waste management. Despite earlier warnings from the Commission, numerous Bulgarian landfills are still operating in breach of EU waste and landfill legislation, representing a serious risk for human health and the environment. In an effort to urge Bulgaria to speed up its actions in this area, the Commission is taking Bulgaria to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/14/47)...

23/01/2014: European Commission asks Court to impose financial penalties on Italy

The European Commission is referring Italy to the EU Court of Justice for its failure to include rules on animal testing into its domestic legislation. This is an issue on which there is considerable public concern, and Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes was to be enacted in national legislation by 10 November 2012. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission is asking the Court to impose penalty payments of EUR 150 787 per day.

Read more (IP/14/46)...

23/01/2014: January infringements package: main decisions

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions covering many sectors aim to ensure proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses.

Read more (MEMO/14/36)...

22/01/2014: European Commission recommends minimum principles for shale gas

Today the European Commission adopted a Recommendation aiming to ensure that proper environmental and climate safeguards are in place for "fracking" – the high-volume hydraulic fracturing technique used notably in shale gas operations. The Recommendation should help all Member States wishing to use this practice address health and environmental risks and improve transparency for citizens. It also lays the ground for a level playing field for industry and establishes a clearer framework for investors.

Read more (IP/14/55)...

22/01/2014: Questions and answers on the shale gas initiative

Why is there a need for EU action on hydrocarbons using high-volume hydraulic fracturing (e.g shale gas)?

Read more (MEMO/14/42)...

December 2013

19/12/2013: New award shines a spotlight on Europe's biodiversity

The European Commission is launching a Natura 2000 Award to recognise excellence in best practices for nature conservation in Europe. If you are involved in activities related to Natura 2000, this could be your chance to shine. Natura 2000 is a network of protected areas of high biodiversity value that covers around 20% of EU territory with a wealth of flora and fauna, from mountainous beech forests in the Czech Republic to turtles in Polish wetlands and dolphins off the coast of Spain. As well as protecting nature, the network provides numerous social and economic benefits.

Read more (IP/13/1296)...

18/12/2013: Copenhagen – European Green Capital 2014

Today Copenhagen is officially crowned the European Green Capital 2014, taking the title from Nantes, France at a handover ceremony in Brussels. The Danish capital was awarded the title following an intensive Europe-wide competition.

Read more (IP/13/1285)...

18/12/2013: New policy package to clean up Europe's air

The human toll for poor air quality is worse than for road traffic accidents, making it the number one environmental cause of premature death in the EU. It also impacts the quality of life due to asthma or respiratory problems. The Commission is responding with new measures to reduce air pollution, adopted today. The clean air policy package updates existing legislation and further reduces harmful emissions from industry, traffic, energy plants and agriculture, with a view to reducing their impact on human health and the environment. Air pollution causes also lost working days, and high healthcare costs, with vulnerable groups such as children, asthmatics and the elderly the worst affected. It also damages ecosystems through excess nitrogen pollution (eutrophication) and acid rain. The direct costs to society from air pollution, including damage to crops and buildings, amount to about €23 billion per year. The benefits to people's health from implementing the package are around €40 billion a year, over 12 times the costs of pollution abatement, which are estimated to reach € 3.4 billion per year in 2030.

Read more (IP/13/1274)...

18/12/2013: Questions and answers on the EU Clean Air Policy Package 

Read more (MEMO/13/1169)...

12/12/2013: Preparation Environment Council, 13 December 2013 

Read more (MEMO/13/1139)...

06/12/2013: Feeling INSPIRED? – Give your opinion on the 'Infrastructure for Spatial Information in the European Union'

The European Commission is asking for opinions about the 'Infrastructure for Spatial Information in the European Community' Directive. Known as INSPIRE, it's a pan-European initiative to help governments, citizens and businesses share geographic, social-economic and environmental data. The consultation aims to collect feedback on the experiences of individual users and producers of such spatial data working for public authorities, for the private and academic sector or as individual citizens, with a view to improving the provision of information for policies and activities having an impact on the environment.

Read more (IP/13/1216)...

06/12/2013: Commissioner Janez Potočnik welcomes plan to cut marine litter in the Mediterranean

Last night the Conference of Parties of the Barcelona Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean adopted a regional plan to manage marine litter.

Read more (MEMO/13/1110)...

03/12/2013: New EU support to reduce illegal killing of elephants and other endangered species in developing countries

Today, the European Union has decided to support a programme that will improve the protection of elephants, great apes and rhinos in Africa as well as other species such as marine turtles in the Caribbean and the Pacific. It will strengthen the monitoring of animal populations and poaching, help to improve law enforcement in the fight against illegal killings through training and operational support and establish an emergency response system for sudden increases in illegal killing and trade.

Read more (IP/13/1193)...

November 2013


20/11/2013: European Commission welcomes the 7th Environment Action Programme becoming law

Today the Council and European Parliament signed into law the Decision on a 7th EU Environment Action Programme, which will guide EU policy action on environment and climate policy for the next seven years. This brings to a successful conclusion a process that started 12 months ago when the Commission tabled its proposal.

Read more (MEMO/13/1020)...

20/11/2013: European Commission takes Greece back to Court for waste water

The European Commission is referring Greece back to the European Court of Justice for poor treatment of urban waste water. The Court previously ruled in October 2007 that Greece was failing in its obligation to treat and dispose of urban waste water in an adequate manner, with 23 agglomerations across the country lacking the necessary collection and treatment systems. Six years after the Court's ruling, six agglomerations are still failing to comply with EU standards. The Commission is therefore asking the Court to impose fines, suggesting a lump sum of €11 514 081 and a daily penalty payment of €47 462 until the obligations are fulfilled.

Read more (IP/13/1102)...

20/11/2013: November infringements package

Read more (MEMO/13/1005)...

15/11/2013: European Week for Waste Reduction begins

We talk about the importance of the "3Rs" – encouraging citizens to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle – but it is the first R that is the most important. For the next 7 days the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR) will be putting this in the spotlight. The aim is to increase awareness about how we can change habits in Europe, and also to encourage debate on issues of resource efficiency and circular economy. The project, coordinated by the Association of Cities and Regions for Recycling and Sustainable Waste Management (ACR+) and supported by the EU's LIFE+ programme, now covers 17 countries, including 3 non-EU Member States.

Read more (IP/13/1084)...

13/11/2013: Business, citizens and environment to benefit from free access to EU satellite data

The European Commission will provide free, full and open access to a wealth of important environmental data gathered by Copernicus, Europe's Earth observation system. The new open data dissemination regime, which will come into effect next month, will support the vital task of monitoring the environment and will also help Europe's enterprises, creating new jobs and business opportunities. Sectors positively stimulated by Copernicus are likely to be services for environmental data production and dissemination, as well as space manufacturing. Indirectly, a variety of other economic segments will see the advantages of accurate earth observation, such as transport, oil and gas, insurance and agriculture. Studies show that Copernicus – which includes six dedicated satellite missions, the so-called Sentinels, to be launched between 2014 and 2021 – could generate a financial benefit of some € 30 billion and create around 50.000 jobs by 2030. Moreover, the new open data dissemination regime will help citizens, businesses, researchers and policy makers to integrate an environmental dimension into all their activities and decision making procedures.

Read more (IP/13/1067)...

06/11/2013: 12 cities apply for European Green Capital Award 2016

The deadline for submitting entries to become European Green Capital 2016 is now closed and the following 12 cities from 11 different countries have entered the competition.

Read more (IP/13/1027)...

04/11/2013: More citizens calling for greater nature protection

Almost nine out of ten Europeans believe that biodiversity loss – the decline and possible extinction of animal species, flora and fauna, natural habitats and ecosystems in Europe – is a problem, according to a new survey.

Read more (IP/13/1018)...

04/11/2013: Commission proposes to reduce the use of plastic bags

Today the European Commission adopted a proposal that requires Member States to reduce their use of lightweight plastic carrier bags. Member States can choose the measures they find most appropriate, including charges, national reduction targets or a ban under certain conditions. Lightweight plastic bags are often used only once, but can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, often as harmful microscopic particles that are known to be dangerous to marine life in particular.

Read more (IP/13/1017)...

04/11/2013: Questions and answers on the proposal to reduce the consumption of plastic bags

Read more (MEMO/13/945)...

October 2013


18/10/2013: How can we reduce marine litter?

The seas and oceans are increasingly becoming the waste dump of the planet. Plastic waste forms 80 % of the enormous waste patches in the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans, with fatal consequences for numerous sea species. The European Commission is asking for opinions on how we can best address this problem. The public consultation is open until 18 December 2013.

Read more (IP/13/976)...

18/10/2013: Water pollution is decreasing but a lot remains to be done

Water pollution caused by nitrates has decreased in Europe over the past two decades, but agricultural pressures are still putting water resources under strain. The latest Report on the implementation of the Nitrates Directive reveals that nitrates concentrations are slightly decreasing in both surface and groundwater and sustainable agricultural practices are more widespread. Although the overall trend is positive, nitrates pollution and eutrophication – the excess growth of weeds and algae that suffocates life in rivers and seas – are still causing problems in many Member States and further action is needed to bring the waters in the European Union to a good status within a reasonable timescale.

Read more (IP/13/947)...

17/10/2013: European Commission takes Germany to Court over Access to Justice

The European Commission is taking Germany to Court over a loophole in its legislation on access to justice in environmental matters. Under EU legislation, Member States must ensure a legal review procedure for decisions taken in the context of the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive and the Industrial Emissions Directive. The Commission is concerned at apparent gaps in German legislation in this area, which may be restricting citizens' access to justice. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore taking Germany to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/13/967)...

17/10/2013: Commission takes Bulgaria to Court for failing to protect endangered species

The European Commission is taking Bulgaria to Court over its failure to protect unique habitats and important species. The case concerns the Kaliakra region, a migratory route and resting place for highly endangered species, where large numbers of wind turbines and other developments have been authorised without adequate assessments of their environmental effects. Although Bulgaria is committed to increasing the protection of rare species and habitats in the region, the reverse appears to be happening. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore taking Bulgaria to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/13/966)...

17/10/2013: October infringements package: main decisions

Read more (MEMO/13/907)...

16/10/2013: World Food Day: Commission underlines commitment to reducing food waste in Europe

Today marks World Food Day - an occasion to remind ourselves that around a third of food is wasted globally. This amounts to 1.3 billion tons per year according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation. About 90 million tonnes of food is wasted annually in Europe – agricultural food waste and fish discards not included.

Read more (IP/13/953)...

11/10/2013: Preparation Environment Council, 14 October 2013

The first formal Environment Council under the Lithuanian Presidency will be held in Luxembourg on 14 October. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council will deal with environment-related points before moving on to climate issues, which form the bulk of the day's agenda. The main environment dossier is the proposed regulation on waste shipments, on which ministers will hold an exchange of views. On climate, the Council is due to adopt conclusions setting out its position for next month's UN climate change conference in Warsaw. It will also seek to finalise an agreement on 2020 CO2 emission standards for cars. Over lunch ministers will discuss green infrastructure. Any other business points include information from the Commission on the aviation part of the EU emissions trading system and on prospects for a global phase-down of HFC gases. A press conference will take place at the end of the meeting.

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10/10/2013: European Union welcomes the signing of the Minamata Convention on Mercury

Today Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for the Environment, and Lithuanian Environment Minister Valentinas Mazuronis signed the Minamata Convention on Mercury on behalf of the European Union. The ceremony, in the Japanese town of Kumamoto, was attended by representatives of more than one hundred governments from around the globe. The Convention is the first new multilateral environmental agreement to be signed for more than ten years.

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10/10/2013: Questions and answers on EU Mercury Policy

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09/10/2013: Commissioner Janez Potočnik welcomes the European Parliament's vote on the new Environmental Impact Assessment Directive

I welcome the outcome of today's vote on the Commission's proposal for a revised Environmental Impact Assessment Directive. This paves the way for much-needed changes that will modernise the current directive, in line with the REFIT agenda, improving its effectiveness and streamlining related administrative processes. Fundamentally, it's a vote of confidence in what has always been one of the foundations of EU environment policy, a key piece of legislation that ensures the concerns of citizens are taken into account when important new developments are needed.

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September 2013


30/09/2013: EU and Indonesia sign historic deal to curb illegal timber

Today the European Union and Indonesia signed a historic trade agreement which will contribute to halting the trade in illegal timber. Under the agreement, only verified legal timber and timber products will be exported to the EU. Indonesia is the first Asian country to enter into such an agreement, and by far the largest Asian timber exporter to the EU.

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26/09/2013: European Commission urges Italy to bring a steel plant in Taranto up to environmental standards

The European Commission is taking action against Italy in an effort to reduce the environmental impact of the ILVA steel plant in Taranto (hereafter "ILVA"), Europe's largest iron and steel works.

Read more (IP/13/866)...

26/09/2013: September infringements package: main decisions

Read more (MEMO/13/820)...

23/09/2013: EU is making major contribution to global fight against poverty

Over the last decade, thanks to EU funding, almost 14 million pupils could go to primary school, more than 46 million people were helped with cash or other in-kind benefits to ensure their food security, and over 7.5 million births were attended by skilled health workers, saving the lives of mothers and babies.

Read more (IP/13/852)...

17/09/2013: UNEP’s announcement on 2013 Champions of the Earth award

European Commissioner for Environment Janez Potočnik is to receive the United Nations’ 2013 Champions of the Earth award.
The prize – which is the UN system’s highest environmental accolade - is awarded to leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a significant and positive impact on the environment.

Read more...

16/09/2013: Mobility Week envisages cleaner air through alternative urban transport

Over 2000 European towns and cities are expected to participate in the 12th edition of European Mobility Week, which begins today. This year the week runs until 22 September under the slogan ‘Clean air – It’s your move!’. The campaign raises awareness about the impact of transport on local air quality, and encourages citizens to improve their health and wellbeing by changing their day-to-day mobility behaviour.

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09/09/2013: New EU Action to protect biodiversity against problematic invasive species

The European Commission today proposed new legislation to prevent and manage the rapidly growing threat from invasive species. There are currently over 12 000 species present in Europe which are alien to the natural environment. About 15% of these are invasive and they are rapidly growing in number.

Read more (IP/13/818)...

09/09/2013: Questions and answers on the new proposal for a Regulation on preventing and managing invasive alien species

What are invasive alien species (IAS)?
Alien species are plants, animals, fungi and micro-organisms that have been transported across ecological barriers such as mountain ranges, or oceans as a result of human intervention, and have become established in an area outside their natural range.

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August 2013


30/08/2013: New Biocides Regulation improves human health and environmental protection

A new Regulation on biocidal products applying from 1st September will significantly increase the safety and simplify the authorisation procedure of biocides used and placed on the market in the EU. Biocides are chemicals used to suppress harmful organisms such as pests and germs (i.e. moulds and bacteria), including insect repellents, disinfectants and industrial chemicals like anti-fouling paints for ships and material preservatives.

Read more (IP/13/796)...

07/08/2013: Urban wastewater trends moving in the right direction

The latest figures for wastewater treatment in Europe show improvements in collection and treatment, even if big differences remain between Member States. Frontrunners such as Austria, Germany and the Netherlands largely meet EU minimum standards for wastewater treatment with several others being very close. Newer Member States, starting from a lower baseline, have also improved overall collection and treatment, despite lower compliance rates. This progress comes with significant EU investment support, amounting to EUR 14.3 billion between 2007-2013.

Read more (IP/13/768)...

July 2013


18/07/2013: Commissioners Potočnik and Hedegaard welcome EU agreement to boost funding for the environment to €3.45 billion from 2014

The Council's Committee of Permanent Representatives has endorsed the agreement reached between the institutions on 26 June on a new LIFE Regulation. This paves the way for formal adoption of the new funding instrument for the environment by the Council and the Parliament later in the year.

Read more (MEMO/13/701)...

18/07/2013: EU and China together explore the benefits of green growth

Business opportunities from resource efficient production is the focus of today’s visit to China by European Commission Vice-President Antonio Tajani, Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship, and Janez Potočnik, Commissioner for Environment. Green growth is now high on the political agenda for the EU and China – both are interested in achieving sustainable growth while maintaining and improving the state of their respective environments. The global market for green goods and services is currently estimated at around €1 000 billion per annum, and this is expected to double by 2020. This year the European Union and China are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and “Green Growth” has been proposed both as a key topic for the upcoming EU-Summit and for this Mission for Growth.

Read more (MEMO/13/697)...

15/07/2013: "The fish cannot go to court": Give your opinion on how to improve access to environmental justice

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on ways to improve access to justice in the field of the environment. Access to justice – the right to challenge decisions or omissions by public bodies that are suspected of not complying with environmental law – is an international obligation under a UN Convention ratified by the EU in 2005.

Read more (IP/13/689)...

15/07/2013: What future for our food system? Let us know what you think

In Europe we waste about 89 million tons of food every year. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik said: "This is morally and economically unacceptable and is all the more horrific when you consider the true scale of the resources required to produce those 89 million tons! We are also wasting all those resources. There's something wrong with the system."

Read more (IP/13/688)...

11/07/2013: Commission fights back against illegal waste shipments

The European Commission took action today to tackle illegal waste shipments that are causing damage to human health and the environment. The Commission proposed stronger legislation on national inspections of waste shipments to ensure that all Member States have similar levels of control. Around 25 % of waste shipments sent from the EU to developing countries in Africa and Asia are thought to contravene international regulations. When it arrives, that waste is often dumped or mismanaged, causing serious negative impacts on human health and the environment.

Read more (IP/13/679)...

09/07/2013: Give your opinion on reducing the environmental impact of buildings

The European Commission is gathering views on how to reduce the environmental impacts of buildings. Buildings use a large amount of resources when they are designed, built, used and demolished, and their impact on the environment, energy consumption and climate change is significant. Improving construction techniques is therefore important to help Europe become a more sustainable economy.

Read more (IP/13/666)...

08/07/2013: How can we use phosphorus more efficiently and create opportunities for recycling?

The Commission is launching a consultation on how to use phosphorus in a more sustainable way. Phosphorus is widely used in agriculture and is an essential component in fertiliser and animal feed, but it is a resource which has no substitute. Supplies are limited, prices have been volatile and much phosphorus is currently wasted, creating concerns about the cost and availability of future supplies in the EU and worldwide.

Read more (IP/13/658)...

05/07/2013: 80% of Europeans are concerned about the environmental impact of products

According to a new survey, most Europeans would be prepared to change their purchasing habits and buy more environmentally-friendly products, but many feel they lack information and distrust manufacturers' environmental claims. The survey on the "Attitudes of Europeans towards building the single market for green products" indicates that more than three-quarters of respondents are willing to pay more for environmentally-friendly products if they were confident that the products are truly environmentally-friendly (77%). However, only slightly more than half of EU citizens feel informed (55%) about the environmental impacts of the products they buy and use.

Read more (IP/13/653)...

03/07/2013: Commission invests EUR 281.4 million in new environment and climate projects

The European Commission has approved funding for 248 new projects under the LIFE+ programme, the European Union's environment fund. The projects cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, climate change, environmental policy and information and communication on environmental issues across all Member States. Overall, they represent a total investment of some EUR 556.4 million, of which the EU will provide EUR 281.4 million.

Read more (IP/13/643)...

03/07/2013: The 2012 LIFE+ projects

Read more (MEMO/13/638)...

June 2013


21/06/2013: Will your city be the European Green Capital 2016?

The Commission has launched its search for the 2016 European Green Capital. The European Green Capital Award recognises cities that are at the forefront of environmentally-friendly urban living. The annual award is intended to inspire European cities to take action to become more attractive and healthy places to live, work and visit – cities that are "fit for life".

Read more (IP/13/585)...

20/06/2013: Commission takes Greece to Court over nitrate pollution

On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission is referring Greece to the EU Court of Justice for failing to take measures to guarantee that water pollution by nitrates is addressed effectively. Although the Nitrates Directive has been in force since 1991, Greece has still not designated a number of zones vulnerable to nitrates pollution, and it has yet to adopt measures to effectively combat nitrates pollution in these zones.

Read more (IP/13/576)...

20/06/2013: Italy referred back to Court over waste management in Campania, Commission asks for fines

On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission has decided to refer Italy back to the European Court of Justice for its long-running failure to manage waste adequately in the Campania region more than three years after a previous ruling. Under EU law, Member States must recover and dispose of waste in a manner that does not endanger human health and the environment.

Read more (IP/13/575)...

14/06/2013: Bristol European Green Capital 2015

The UK city of Bristol has won the European Green Capital Award for 2015. The award was presented by EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at a ceremony in Nantes, France, which currently holds the title, on Friday evening. Bristol received recognition for its investment plans in the areas of transport and energy, and especially for its commitment to act as a true role model for the green economy in Europe and beyond. Its communication and social media strategy were also highlighted as a real call to action for its citizens.

Read more (IP/13/545)...

06/06/2013: Your views can help make Europe become a recycling society

The European Commission wants to know whether you think the recycling targets in EU waste legislation need reviewing, and how. The results of the consultation will be used to help develop potential new legislation to prevent waste and boost re-use and recycling, as part of a wider review of waste policies in 2014. Citizens, businesses, NGOs, public authorities and other interested parties are welcome to contribute their views until mid-September 2013.

Read more (IP/13/509)...

04/06/2013: Green Week opens in Brussels

Europe's largest environment conference kicks off today under the banner "Cleaner Air for All". This year's edition of Green Week is dedicated to air, and will see some 3000 participants gather for three days to discuss air-related issues. Stakeholders, NGOs, government representatives and EU officials will search for solutions to air pollution, like how to safeguard air quality against the backdrop of rising industrial and energy production, the rise in road traffic and urbanisation, the burning of fossil fuels, and climate change. All sessions are streamed live on the internet.

Read more (IP/13/498)...

May 2013


31/05/2013: Eco-innovation: EU-funded SMEs demonstrate job creation and green growth

Investment in SMEs working in the area of environmentally innovative technologies is producing above average returns, creating valuable jobs and also alleviating environmental impacts, according to a new report. The performance of young SMEs funded over the past two years under the eco-innovation component of the EU's Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP) has been analysed and shows impressive results. The investment of EU eco-innovation funds shows a 20-fold return - every euro invested has resulted in 20 euros for its beneficiaries. Furthermore each project supported has generated an additional 8 permanent full-time jobs.

Read more (IP/13/492)...

30/05/2013: Commission takes Greece to Court over landfill in Peloponnese

The European Commission is concerned that Greece is failing to protect its citizens and the environment from the effects of badly treated waste in the Peloponnese region. Despite earlier warnings, the Kiato landfill is operating in breach of EU waste and landfill legislation and thus represents a serious risk for human health and the environment. In an effort to urge Greece to speed up its actions in this area, the Commission is taking Greece to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/13/483)...

30/05/2013: May infringements package: main decisions

Read more (MEMO/13/470)...

21/05/2013: Europe's bathing waters continue to improve

Ninety-four per cent of bathing sites in the European Union meet minimum standards for water quality, according to the European Environment Agency's annual report on bathing water quality in Europe. Water quality is excellent at 78 % of sites and almost 2 % more sites meet the minimum requirements compared to last year's report.

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17/05/2013: EUR 31.5 million in Commission funding to bring environmental solutions to market

The European Commission has launched a call for proposals of EUR 31.5 million for the best 45 eco-innovation projects. Businesses throughout Europe have until 5 September 2013 to put in their proposals for bringing novel environmental solutions to the market.

Read more (IP/13/443)...

06/05/2013: Investing in green infrastructure will bring multiple returns to nature, society and people

The European Commission adopted today a new strategy for encouraging the use of green infrastructure, and for ensuring that the enhancement of natural processes becomes a systematic part of spatial planning. Green Infrastructure is a tried and tested tool that uses nature to provide ecological, economic and social benefits. Instead of building flood protection infrastructure, for example, a green infrastructure solution would be to allow a natural wetland to absorb the excess water from heavy rain.

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April 2013


09/04/2013: Helping companies and consumers navigate the green maze

The European Commission is proposing EU-wide methods to measure the environmental performance of products and organisations, and encouraging Member States and the private sector to take them up.

Read more (IP/13/310)...

March 2013


25/03/2013: Bristol, Brussels, Glasgow and Ljubljana shortlisted for European Green Capital 2015

Bristol, Brussels, Glasgow and Ljubljana have been chosen as the four finalists to proceed to the next stage of the European Green Capital 2015 Award organised by the European Commission. The European Green Capital Award is an annual prize that goes to one city every year, singling out its environmental performance.

Read more (IP/13/273)...

21/03/2013: Commission takes Belgium to Court over untreated urban waste water

The European Commission is concerned that Belgium is failing to protect its citizens from the effects of untreated urban waste water. Despite earlier reminders from the Commission, a number of towns in Belgium are still failing to comply with European norms. Discharge of untreated urban waste water is a threat to human health and the environment. In an effort to urge Belgium to speed up its actions in this area, the Commission is therefore taking Belgium to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/13/251)...

21/03/2013: Commission takes Italy to Court over inadequate treatment of waste landfilled in Lazio

The European Commission is taking Italy to Court for failing to comply with the requirements of EU waste legislation. Due to a narrow interpretation by the Italian authorities of what constitutes sufficient treatment of waste, the Malagrotta landfill in Rome and other landfills in the Lazio region are being filled with waste that has not undergone the treatment required by EU legislation. Landfills operating in breach of EU waste legislation constitute a serious threat to human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is taking Italy to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/13/250)...

21/03/2013: March infringements package: main decisions

Read more (MEMO/13/261)...

20/03/2013: Preparation Environment Council, 21 March 2013

The first Environment Council under the Irish Presidency will be held in Brussels on 21 March. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission.

Read more (MEMO/13/240)...

19/03/2013: Commission helps Member States to get on track with sustainable waste management

Every year, each European citizen generates over 500 kilos of municipal waste, more than one third of which goes directly to landfill. Whereas some Member States manage to put those resources to productive use, recycling or composting around 60% of their municipal waste, others struggle to manage it.

Read more (IP/13/239)...

13/03/2013: The uncoordinated use of coastal and maritime areas is currently resulting in competition for maritime and coastal space and inefficient use of marine and coastal resources.

Today the Commission launched a proposal to improve the planning of maritime activities at sea and the management of coastal areas. The proposal – which takes the form of a draft directive – aims to establish a common European framework for maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management in EU Member States, with a view to ensuring that the growth of maritime and coastal activities and the use of resources at sea and on coasts remain sustainable.

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13/03/2013: Questions and Answers on proposed Directive on Maritime Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Management

Why is the Commission proposing a Framework Directive on Maritime Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Management? The uncoordinated use of coastal and maritime areas is currently resulting in competition for maritime and coastal space and inefficient use of marine and coastal resources.

Read more (MEMO/13/210)...

11/03/2013: Commissioners Potočnik and Damanaki welcome progress within CITES for global protection of shark species threatened by unsustainable trade

We warmly welcome the decisions at the CITES meeting today to grant extra protection to five shark species threatened by unsustainable international trade.

Read more (MEMO/13/199)...

07/03/2013: What should we do about plastic waste? New Green Paper opens EU-wide reflection

Plastic has become an unavoidable material in our modern world. Plastics are versatile and durable, but this durability can make disposal problematic. A Green Paper published by the European Commission today aims to launch a structured discussion about how to make plastic products more sustainable throughout their life cycle and reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment.

Read more (IP/13/201)...

06/03/2013: Transport and Environment: Aberdeen and Zagreb win EU sustainable mobility awards

The European Commission has announced the winners of the 2012 European Mobility Week Award and of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans Award. The cities were presented with their awards by European Commissioners Siim Kallas and Janez Potočnik at a joint award ceremony in Brussels, Belgium (Théâtre du Vaudeville) on 6 March.

Read more (IP/13/202)...

01/03/2013: New timber regulation comes into force

On 3 March, new legislation comes into effect to counter the trade in illegal timber. The new EU Timber regulation will affect everyone in the wood trade. It prohibits the placing of illegally harvested timber on the European market in an effort to tackle the problem of illegal logging across the world. Illegal logging has severe economic, environmental and social impacts: it is associated with deforestation and climate change, it can undermine the efforts and livelihoods of legitimate operators, and it can also contribute to conflicts over land and resources.

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February 2013


27/02/2013: EU to take leading role in global fight against poverty and strive for sustainable development

As the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) come to an end in 2015 and the Rio+20 conference launched the process for the formulation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the European Commission acknowledges that both challenges must be tackled together through a joined up approach.

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27/02/2013: Communication 'A decent Life for All: Ending poverty and giving the world a sustainable future'

Eradicating poverty and ensuring that prosperity and well-being are sustainable are two of the pressing challenges facing the world.

Read more (MEMO/13/143)...

21/02/2013: Commission refers Sweden back to Court over industrial permits, asks for fines

The European Commission is taking Sweden back to Court for its failure to license industrial installations that are operating without permits. Despite an earlier Court judgement on this matter, Sweden has still not licensed two major industrial installations. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring Sweden back to the European Court of Justice and, in line with established policy, suggesting a daily penalty payment of 14912 euros for each day after the second Court ruling until Sweden complies with the judgment and a lump sum calculated on the basis of 4893 euros per day for the period between the first judgment and the day of compliance or the day of the second Court ruling.

Read more (IP/13/145)...

21/02/2013: Commission takes Poland to Court over water legislation

The European Commission is referring Poland to the EU Court of Justice for failing to transpose European water legislation correctly. Polish water legislation has shortcomings in a number of areas, including the transposition of some definitions provided by the Directive and gaps in transposition of the Directive's Annexes. The Commission is particularly concerned about the absence of Annex II, which outlines the characterisation system for surface waters and groundwaters, and about omissions in the transposition of Annex III, which should provide specifications and reference points for river basin district analysis, reviews of the environmental impact of human activities on water, and the economic analysis of water use. The monitoring of water status is also a cause for concern. Despite a number of reminders no satisfactory reply has been forthcoming. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore calling Poland before the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/13/144)...

21/02/2013: Commission takes Greece back to Court over illegal landfills and asks for fines

The European Commission is taking Greece back to the European Court of Justice for failing to implement an earlier ruling on illegal landfills. In 2005, the Court ruled that Greece was not taking sufficient measures to close down and rehabilitate illegal landfills, of which there were several hundred operating across the country. Eight years later, in view of insufficient progress since the ruling, the Commission is referring the case back to Court and, in line with established policy, suggesting a daily penalty payment of 71193 euros for each day after the second Court ruling until Greece complies with the judgment and a lump sum calculated on the basis of 7786 euros per day for the period between the first judgment and the day of compliance or the day of the second Court ruling.

Read more (IP/13/143)...

05/02/2013: REACH: Chemicals in Europe have become safer

The use of chemicals in Europe has become considerably safer since the REACH regulation entered into force, according to a European Commission report published today. More readily available information about chemical substances on the market and better targeted risk management measures mean that risks from substances registered under REACH have significantly decreased. The trend is expected to continue, as industry is continuously working towards finding substitutes for the most hazardous chemicals. Five years after REACH's entry into force, implementation is in full swing. Companies have now registered 30,601 files with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) describing the uses and properties of 7,884 chemical substances manufactured or placed on the market. According to a Eurobarometer survey published today, 61% of Europeans think that chemicals are now safer than 10 years ago.

Read more (IP/13/85)...

January 2013


31/01/2013: Newly found health effects of air pollution call for stronger EU air policies

Long-term exposure to fine particles (PM2.5) can trigger atherosclerosis, adverse birth outcomes and childhood respiratory diseases, according to a World Health Organisation (WHO) review released today. REVIHAAP – the "Review of evidence on health aspects of air pollution" – also suggests a possible link with neurodevelopment, cognitive function and diabetes, and strengthens the causal link between PM2.5 and cardiovascular and respiratory deaths. The research was carried out at the request of the European Commission in the framework of the 2013 review of the European Union's air policy.

Read more (IP/13/72)...

24/01/2013: Commission takes Poland to Court over nitrates and water pollution

The European Commission is referring Poland to the EU Court of Justice for failing to guarantee that water pollution by nitrates is addressed effectively. Europe has strong legislation on pollution from nitrates, and although the requirements have been applicable in Poland since 2004, too little has been done. Poland has still has not designated a sufficient number of zones that are vulnerable to nitrates pollution, and measures to effectively combat nitrates pollution in these zones have not been adopted. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore taking Poland to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/13/48)...

24/01/2013: A fresh legal approach to improving air quality in Member States

Ambient air quality is poor in many EU Member States – despite an obligation for governments to ensure good air quality for citizens. The situation is so serious that the Commission is currently taking action against 17 States with a consistent record of poor air quality.

Read more (IP/13/47)...

19/01/2013: Commission welcomes new global agreement to tackle mercury

Today the European Commission welcomed the successful conclusion of the multilateral negotiations to address the global threat posed to human health and the environment by mercury. This follows the decision of the Governing Council of UNEP in February 2009 to develop a global legally binding instrument on mercury and the subsequent creation of an International Negotiating Committee to conclude on the text of a mercury Treaty that held its final meeting this week. The EU was a key driver for the launch of this negotiating process.

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08/01/2013: Europeans call for stronger EU air quality policy

According to the latest research, a majority (56 %) of Europeans believe that air quality has deteriorated in the last 10 years. In Italy, as many as 81 % hold this view, and in Cyprus, France, Greece, Hungary, Romania and Spain, 70-75 % of survey participants believe that this is the case. The research – a Eurobarometer called Attitudes of Europeans towards Air Quality – shows strong support for further action at EU level. Almost four out of five participants (79 %) believe that the EU should propose additional measures to address air pollution. The survey specifically asked participants if they were aware of EU air quality standards and national emission ceilings, and out of those who know about these instruments (25 % in both cases), more than half (58 % and 51 %) were of the view that they should be strengthened. The findings will now feed into an on-going review on EU air policy by the Commission which is due for the second half of 2013.

Read more (IP/13/6)...

December 2012

21/12/2012: Funding to boost INTERPOL fight against wildlife crime

The European Commission is to contribute nearly two million euros to INTERPOL in support of its efforts to combat wildlife crime and protect the world's natural resources from the illegal international trade in wild flora and fauna. Over the next three years, funding worth EUR 1.73 million will support the world police body's Project Combat Wildlife Crime under the umbrella of the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC), which also includes the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Secretariat, the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Bank (WB), and the World Customs Organisation (WCO).

Read more (IP/12/1428)...

20/12/2012: Commission consults public on unconventional fossil fuels (e.g. shale gas) in Europe

The European Commission is holding a public consultation on the future development of unconventional fossil fuels such as shale gas in Europe. All interested individuals, organisations and public authorities are welcome to share their views on the possible opportunities and challenges that may arise from the development of such projects and on the best ways to address the challenges identified so far. The consultation is open until 20 March 2013. The consultation is available in all 23 EU languages.

Read more (IP/12/1429)...

18/12/2012: €40 million for innovations in water

An important step was taken today in developing solutions for the major challenges Europe faces in managing water. The Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP) adopted by the European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on Water, chaired by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik sets out priority areas where solutions are needed. Action Groups will now draw up tools and mechanisms to promote innovations in water policies and technologies. 40 million euros of research funding will be made available in 2013 to support projects that contribute to the aims of the EIP Water.

Read more (IP/12/1386)...

17/12/2012: New rules on cleaner fuels for shipping will deliver benefits for people's health

New environmental rules on marine fuels, entering into force today, will substantially reduce air pollution and its impacts on human health. Air pollutants from maritime shipping are transported over long distances and as a result contribute increasingly to the air quality problems in many European cities. Without any action, sulphur emissions from shipping in EU sea areas would exceed those from all land-based sources by 2020. The revised legislation will put an end to this trend reducing not only sulphur emissions but more importantly particulate matter, marking a clear step forward in protection of people's health and the environment.

Read more (IP/12/1375)...

17/12/2012: Manifesto for a resource-efficient Europe

In a world with growing pressures on resources and the environment, the EU has no choice but to go for the transition to a resource-efficient and ultimately regenerative circular economy. Our future jobs and competitiveness, as a major importer of resources, are dependent on our ability to get more added value, and achieve overall decoupling, through a systemic change in the use and recovery of resources in the economy. According to the OECD, this could lead to steady economic growth with business opportunities across the whole economy.

Read more (MEMO/12/989)...

14/12/2012: Preparation Environment Council, 17 December 2012

The final Environment Council under the Cyprus Presidency will be held in Brussels on 17 December. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. After the adoption of the 'A' points, ministers will begin with Council conclusions on the Blueprint to Safeguard Europe's Water Resources recently adopted by the Commission.

Read more (MEMO/12/986)...

11/12/2012: Give your opinion on how to improve EU air quality policy

The European Commission is holding a public consultation on the best way to improve air quality in Europe. For the next twelve weeks, interested parties are invited to share their views on ways to ensure full implementation of the existing framework, to improve it, and to complement it with supporting actions. The results of the consultation will feed into a comprehensive review of Europe's air policies due in 2013. The consultation is open until 4 March 2013.

Read more (IP/12/1337)...

05/12/2012: New guidelines for aquaculture and nature protection

The Commission is issuing new guidelines to improve understanding of how aquaculture can be carried out inside Natura 2000, the EU-wide network of protected natural areas. The guidelines explain how best to ensure that activities related to aquaculture are compatible with EU nature legislation and Natura 2000 provisions in particular. They emphasize the significance of the aquaculture sector for food production, and highlight the key role of the Natura 2000 network in delivering the objectives of EU Biodiversity policy. The guidelines focus on the implementation of the provisions on appropriate assessment under the Habitats Directive.

Read more (IP/12/1313)...

November 2012


30/11/2012: Commission recognises innovative water management solutions

The European Commission has announced the winners of this year's European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme Awards. The six winning organisations showed excellence in respecting and safeguarding the environment, and in applying innovative solutions to improve their water management. The awards were handed out at a ceremony in Brussels last night.

Read more (IP/12/1294)...

29/11/2012: European Green Capital 2013 – Nantes, France

At a ceremony in Brussels today, Nantes, France's sixth largest city, takes over the title of European Green Capital from Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain. Nantes was awarded the title of European Green Capital 2013 following an intensive Europe-wide competition in 2010.

Read more (IP/12/1282)...

29/11/2012: Commission sets out Europe's path to prosperity within the planet's ecological limits

The European Commission today put forward a proposal for an Environment Action Programme (EAP) to guide EU environment policy up to 2020. Coming shortly after its recommendations for short term growth [see IP/12/1274], which emphasise the need for ensuring not just the growth of today, but also tomorrow, the Commission has now made proposals aimed at protecting nature, stimulating sustainable growth, creating new jobs and setting Europe on a path to prosperity and health within the limits of the planet.

Read more (IP/12/1271)...

29/11/2012: NEW ENVIRONMENT ACTION PROGRAMME to 2020 – questions and answers

Global trends and challenges such as population dynamics and rising consumption in other parts of the world are making some environmental issues more pressing than ever - from resource and land use, to climate change. This makes it ever more important to address environmental problems at EU and at global level. The European Environment Agency's 2010 report on the State of Europe's Environment (SOER 2010) also shows that despite progress in some areas, the EU is not on track to meet many environment-related targets and objectives. We need to make the environment more resilient to present and future risks and changes, such as those linked to climate change and resource scarcity. The proposed action programme aims to ensure the EU addresses these risks and also takes the opportunities that they can present.

Read more (MEMO/12/908)...

26/11/2012: A good day for nature in Europe

Nearly 25 000 km2 of invaluable natural expanse have been added to the Natura 2000 network. This network of protected sites is the EU's primary tool in the fight to conserve Europe's rich biodiversity. The Commission has now formally approved the inclusion in the network of a further 235 sites, proposed by Member States for recognition as "Sites of Community Importance". Member States will have six years to put the necessary measures in place to protect these sites. The latest update concerns 20 Member States and covers all nine of the network's bio-geographical regions – the Alpine, Atlantic, Black Sea, Boreal, Continental, Macaronesian, Mediterranean, Pannonian and Steppic regions. Natura 2000 now covers 768 000 km2 (17.9 %) of the EU landmass and more than 217 000 km2 (approx. 4 %) of its seas.

Read more (IP/12/1255)...

16/11/2012: EU aiming to be at the forefront of efforts to reduce marine litter

Marine litter is a serious threat to the coastal and marine environment around the globe. Marine habitats are contaminated with man-made garbage and other waste, posing growing environmental, economic, health and aesthetic problems. The European Commission is raising awareness about this global problem, in line with commitments made in Rio this summer to reduce the incidence and impacts of such pollution on marine ecosystems.

Read more (IP/12/1221)...

15/11/2012: Commission presents Blueprint to safeguard Europe's waters

The Commission has launched a Blueprint to Safeguard Europe's Water Resources, a strategy for ensuring that enough good quality water is available to meet the needs of people, the economy and the environment.

Read more (IP/12/1216)...

15/11/2012: BLUEPRINT TO SAFEGUARD EUROPE'S WATER RESOURCES – questions and answers

What is the Blueprint? What is its goal? The Blueprint is a new EU strategy on the use of water resources. It sets the agenda for EU action for the years to come.

Read more (MEMO/12/866)...

October 2012


26/10/2012: Commission to streamline rules on environmental impact assessments of projects

The European Commission today outlined new proposals to streamline legislation on environmental impact assessments. The proposals are intended to lighten administrative burdens and make it easier to assess the potential impacts of major projects, without weakening existing environmental safeguards. Current levels of environmental protection will be strengthened, and businesses should enjoy a more harmonised regulatory framework.

Read more (IP/12/1158)...

25/10/2012: Making a splash: Commission launches child-friendly environmental app for smartphones and tablets

The European Commission has launched an environmental app that can be downloaded to Apple and Android devices. Zoe Makes a Splash! is an interactive digital storybook aimed at children between the ages of 7 and 11 and is free to download. The app tells the story of two inquisitive children who are shown the importance of water in society. Their guide is an articulate frog, who also alerts them to the impact of polluted water and shows them how it can be avoided. Fun animations and interactive features alternate with more serious educational sections, where users learn about the hydrological cycle and water treatment.

Read more (IP/12/1153)...

25/10/2012: Commission gathers views on ways to follow-up Rio+20

The United Nations Rio+20 world summit, held in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012, aimed to secure renewed political commitment to sustainable development. To follow up on the conference, the European Commission wishes to develop specific actions and concrete measures to make sustainable development a reality, within the EU and globally. A public consultation is being held to gather views and ideas. These will be an input to a Communication from the Commission on the follow-up to Rio+20, planned for the first quarter of 2013. The consultation is open until 15 January 2013.

Read more (IP/12/1152)...

24/10/2012: Commission refers Italy back to Court over illegal landfills, asks for fines

The European Commission is urging Italy to clean up hundreds of illegal landfills and uncontrolled waste tips. Despite an earlier Court judgement on this matter in April 2007, problems still persist in almost all Italian regions and the measures in place are not sufficient to resolve the problem in the long term. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring Italy back to the European Court of Justice and requesting a lump sum fine of € 56 million (€ 28089,60 per day between Court cases) and a daily penalty payment of € 256819,20 for each day after the second Court ruling until the infringement ends.

Read more (IP/12/1140)...

24/10/2012: Preparation Environment Council, 25 October 2012

The first Environment Council under the Cyprus Presidency will be held on 25 October in Luxembourg, starting at 10.00, chaired by Mr Sofoclis Aletraris the Minister for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission.

Read more (MEMO/12/802)...

24/10/2012: October infringements package: main decisions

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions covering many sectors aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken today 162 decisions, including 25 reasoned opinions and 10 referrals to the European Union's Court of Justice. Below is a summary of the main decisions.

Read more (MEMO/12/794)...

23/10/2012: EU celebrates 20 years of LIFE and nature protection

A double celebration in Genk, Belgium last night marked the 20th birthday of two keystones of EU environmental policy. It is now twenty years since the EU adopted the Habitats Directive, one of the two building blocks of Natura 2000, Europe's network of protected areas. LIFE, the EU funding instrument for the environment, is also celebrating 20 years.

Read more (IP/12/1134)...

19/10/2012: Eight cities apply for European Green Capital Award 2015, Brussels

The deadline for submitting entries to become European Green Capital 2015 is now closed and the following cities have entered the competition: Bristol (UK), Brussels (Belgium), Bydgoszcz (Poland), Dublin (Ireland), Glasgow (UK), Kaunas (Lithuania), Kutahya (Turkey), Ljubljana (Slovenia).

Read more (IP/12/1126)...

18/10/2012: Inland waterways and nature protection: New guidelines

The Commission is issuing new guidelines on inland navigation and nature protection to assist this important sector in applying EU environmental legislation. The guidelines – "Inland waterway transport and Natura 2000 – sustainable inland waterway development and management in the context of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives" – explain how best to ensure that activities related to inland navigation are compatible with EU environmental policy in general and nature legislation in particular. The document also emphasizes the significance of the inland navigation for securing long-term sustainability of EU transport network and highlights the achievements of this sector in integrating nature protection into its activities to date.

Read more (IP/12/1114)...

10/10/2012: Retailers take action to prevent food waste

Retailers have committed to take voluntary action in waste prevention, particularly on food waste. At the Retail Forum in Brussels yesterday they confirmed their continued belief in the need to move to a resource efficient economy in spite of the challenging economic situation. Looking to the sustainability goals they had set themselves in key areas in precious years, such as selling more green products, they noted strong progress.

Read more (IP/12/1088)...

04/10/2012: Commission proposes measures to tackle 'biopiracy' and facilitate nature-based research

Researchers and companies in the EU received a boost today with a new proposal that should provide reliable access to genetic resources from outside the Union. The proposal – a draft Regulation that would implement the 'Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and Benefit-sharing' – is designed to protect the rights of countries and of indigenous and local communities that allow their genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge to be used, while also giving researchers in Europe improved, reliable access to quality samples of genetic resources at low cost with high legal certainty.

Read more (IP/12/1063)...

04/10/2012: Questions and answers on access and benefit-sharing

What is ABS? Biodiversity is protected by an international convention known as the CBD, or Convention on Biological Diversity. The EU and its Member States are Parties to this Convention. One of the basic principles of this Convention is that it recognizes that states have sovereign rights over the genetic resources found within their jurisdiction, and that they can set conditions for access to such resources, hence "access and benefit sharing", or ABS. Signatories must facilitate access to their genetic resources, and they must ensure that any benefits that arise from the commercial use of those resources are shared fairly and equitably with the Party providing these resources. In practice, most agreements are between biodiversity-rich developing countries, and developed countries where more genetic research is done.

Read more (MEMO/12/738)...

03/10/2012: Nanomaterials: Case by case safety approach for breakthrough technology

Nanotechnology is delivering major advances today and also has the potential to allow "game changing" technological breakthroughs and rekindle economic growth. In recognition of this fact, the European Commission today adopted a Communication on the Second Regulatory Review on Nanomaterials, which also includes the Commission's plans to improve EU law to ensure the safe use of nanomaterials.

Read more (IP/12/1050)...

03/10/2012: Nanomaterials: Commission proposes case by case approach to assessment

Why a second regulatory review for Nanomaterials? Both the potential of nanomaterials to create major new technological breakthroughs1 as well as concerns about their safety have attracted considerable attention. The regulatory review is a systematic analysis of all relevant EU legislation to determine whether current legislation is appropriate to ensure the safe use of nanomaterials, whether and what regulatory gaps need to be filled, and how this can be done without jeopardizing their contribution to innovation, growth and job creation for the European economy.

Read more (MEMO/12/732)...

September 2012


27/09/2012: Commission takes Sweden to Court over failure to comply with e-waste legislation

The European Commission is taking Sweden to the EU Court of Justice for failing to properly transpose EU legislation on electronic waste. The Commission has concerns about shortcomings in the Swedish transposition of the Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) into national legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/1024)...

27/09/2012: Commission takes Greece to Court over waste landfill and endangered turtles

The European Commission is taking Greece to Court over a landfill site in a protected area on the island of Zakynthos. The landfill is operating in breach of EU waste legislation and constitutes a serious threat to human health, the environment, and in particular, to nesting turtles. Greece needs to either close the landfill, or bring it into line with EU waste legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is taking Greece to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/1023)...

24/09/2012: Many Europeans still exposed to harmful air pollutants

Almost a third of Europe's city dwellers are exposed to excessive concentrations of airborne particulate matter (PM). Particulate matter is one of the most important pollutants in terms of harm to human health as it penetrates sensitive parts of the respiratory system. The EU has made progress over the past decades to reduce the air pollutants which cause acidification, but a new report published today by the European Environment Agency (EEA) shows that many parts of Europe have persistent problems with outdoor concentrations of PM and ground level ozone.

Read more (IP/12/1002)...

17/09/2012: European Mobility Week 2012 "Moving in the right direction"

Hundreds of European towns and cities will participate in the 11th edition of European Mobility Week from 16 to 22 September 2012. Citizens are invited to join in activities promoting alternative modes of transport and reducing private car use. This year's focus, "Moving in the right direction" aims to raise awareness of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans and how to better involve citizens and local stakeholders in the planning process.

Read more (IP/12/966)...

14/09/2012:Speaking the same language on noise exposure

Quantifying noise exposure will be significantly easier thanks to a new set of common noise assessment methods published today. Comparable data on noise exposure in Europe is a prerequisite to set up EU policies to reduce noise pollution, a growing health and economic concern all over Europe. The new methods – known as Common Noise Assessment Methods in Europe (CNOSSOS-EU) – were drawn up by the European Commission's in-house science service, the Joint Research Centre. They assess noise from road, rail and air traffic and from industry, and will provide consistent and comparable data on the noise levels to which people are exposed. Member States will have to start using the new methods for the next round of EU-wide strategic noise mapping in 2017.

Read more (IP/12/961)...

14/09/2012:Pooling information to combat the threat of alien species in Europe

How many plants can be found in the Alps that are not native to that region? Which animals were deliberately or accidently introduced to the Danube? How big a threat will they become to local wildlife? EASIN, the European Alien Species Information Network, launched today by the European Commission's in-house science service, the Joint Research Centre (JRC), takes a first step towards answering these and other questions related to 16 000 alien species currently reported all over Europe. This information network – the first of its kind in Europe – is an important step to deal with the threat of alien species that become invasive. Invasive species present a serious threat to biodiversity and natural resources, with an economic impact estimated at around € 12 billion per year.

Read more (IP/12/952)...

August 2012


16/08/2012: European Union mobilises to protect the environment in Algeria

The European Commission has approved an ambitious €34 million environmental programme in Algeria. This programme, which will be carried out in partnership with the Algerian authorities, will focus on protecting the Algiers coastal region, which is home to almost 5 million people, and aims to put the environment and efforts to tackle the impact of climate change (for example in coastal development) at the heart of the country's development policies.

Read more (IP/12/901)...

13/08/2012: New rules on e-waste to boost resource efficiency

Improved rules on the collection and treatment of e-waste enter into force today. E-waste (i.e. waste electrical and electronic equipment, or WEEE) is one the fastest growing waste streams, and it offers substantial opportunities in terms of making secondary raw materials available on the market. Systematic collection and proper treatment is a precondition for recycling materials like gold, silver, copper and rare metals in used TVs, laptops and mobile phones. The new Directive is a clear step forward in terms of environmental protection and a major boost to resource efficiency in Europe.

Read more (IP/12/898)...

13/08/2012: Better information for citizens about major accident risks

New rules that enter into force today will see EU citizens better informed about major threats posed by industrial plants in their immediate vicinity. The rules are part of an otherwise technical update of the Seveso Directive, a key instrument in industrial risk management, which is being adapted to reflect recent changes in the international and European classification of chemicals. The Directive obliges Member States to draw up emergency plans for areas surrounding industrial installations where very large quantities of dangerous substances are to be found.

Read more (IP/12/897)...

07/08/2012: A new medals table for waste management

A new report on how Member States manage their municipal waste shows startling differences across the EU. The report grades the 27 Member States against 18 criteria, using green, orange and red flags in areas such as total waste recycled, pricing of waste disposal, and infringements of European legislation. The resulting scoreboard forms part of an on-going study that will help Member States improve their waste management performance. Top of the table are Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden, none of which have more than 2 red flags. But the pattern is reversed at the other end of the scale, where green flags are scarce.

Read more (IP/12/888)...

July 2012


20/07/2012: €268.4 million for 202 new environment projects

The European Commission has approved funding for 202 new projects under the LIFE+ programme, the European Union's environment fund. The projects cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, environmental policy, climate change and information and communication on environmental issues. They represent a total investment of some €516.5 million, of which the EU will provide €268.4 million.

Read more (IP/12/812)...

20/07/2012: Life Programme

List of all new projects funded under the LIFE programme

Read more (MEMO/12/585)...

17/07/2012: Environment: Safer regulation for biocidal products

New rules on biocides enter into force today. They will bring a significant boost to the protection of human health and the environment. Biocidal products are necessary for the control of organisms that are harmful to human or animal health or that cause damage to materials. But as their properties can also pose risks to humans, animals and the environment, they need careful regulation. The new regulation on biocidal products will increase the safety of these chemical products and simplify their authorisation on the EU market, improving their free movement on the internal market.

Read more (IP/12/794)...

10/07/2012: Conservation of the wolf population in Sweden

European Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and the Swedish Environment Minister Lena Ek met today to discuss the management plan for the conservation of the wolf population in Sweden, in the context of the infringement procedure that is currently open.

Read more (MEMO/12/543)...

06/07/2012: SuperAlp! 6: The sustainable crossing of the Alps

A journey of 1500 km through the Alps to highlight the sites of EU funded LIFE projects and the unique characteristics of the mountainous heart of Europe - starting from Slovenia and travelling through Austria, Italy and France to end in the city of Grenoble. This is the sixth edition of SuperAlp!: a sustainable crossing of the Alps organized by the Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention.

Read more (IP/12/749)...

June 2012


29/06/2012: Copenhagen European Green Capital 2014

The Danish city of Copenhagen has won the European Green Capital Award for 2014. The award was presented by EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at a ceremony in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, the current holder of the title, on Friday evening. Copenhagen received special praise for its achievements, notably in terms of eco-innovation and sustainable mobility, its commitment to act as a role model for the green economy, in Europe and beyond, and for an exceptionally promising communication strategy.

Read more (IP/12/718)...

21/06/2012: Commission urges Portugal to comply with EU law on waste water and water pollution

Portugal is failing to provide sufficient treatment for waste water produced in small urban agglomerations and is not complying with EU cleanliness standards for shellfish waters. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending reasoned opinions to ask Portugal to comply with EU law in both areas. If Portugal fails to do so within two months, the Commission may refer both cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/662)...

21/06/2012: Commission asks Malta to comply with European legislation on packaging waste

The European Commission is concerned that Malta has incorrectly implemented the definition of packaging and packaging waste in its national law, as required by EU waste legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending Malta a reasoned opinion. If Malta fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/661)...

21/06/2012: Commission asks Malta to comply with European legislation on industrial emissions

The European Commission is concerned that Malta is failing to protect its citizens from noxious air pollution from a major power plant. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. If Malta fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/660)...

21/06/2012: Commission closes Lazio case after adoption of waste management plans

The European Commission is closing a case against Italy after waste management plans have finally been adopted for the Lazio region. In 2007 the EU Court of Justice found Italy in breach of its obligations through its failure to adopt such plans, which are necessary to protect human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is closing the case. The adoption of the plan is a very important first step, but the Commission remains concerned about its implementation and is urging the Italian authorities to keep up their efforts to ensure proper waste management in the region.

Read more (IP/12/659)...

21/06/2012: Italy in Court over urban waste water treatment failings

The European Commission is taking Italy to court for its failure to ensure that waste water from agglomerations with more than 10,000 inhabitants that discharge into sensitive areas is properly treated. The lack of adequate collection and treatment systems, required by EU legislation since 1998, poses risks to human health and to inland waters and the marine environment. Despite good progress since a reasoned opinion on this matter in 2011, the significant shortcomings that remain have led the Commission, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, to refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/658)...

21/06/2012: Commission refers Ireland back to Court over incomplete environmental impact assessment laws

The European Commission is urging Ireland to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of projects on the environment into line with EU rules. Despite considerable interaction with the Commission, legislation on environmental impact assessments in Ireland still contains shortcomings. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring Ireland back to the European Court of Justice and requesting that it impose a lump sum fine of over €1.800.000 and a daily penalty payment of over €19 000 for each day after the second Court ruling until the infringement ends.

Read more (IP/12/657)...

21/06/2012: Commission asks Hungary to comply with EU legislation on environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging Hungary to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of projects on the environment in line with EU rules. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/656)...

21/06/2012: Commission urges Cyprus and Lithuania to comply with EU waste legislation

Two Member States have not correctly interpreted or applied EU waste laws: Cyprus (for landfill) and Lithuania (for packaging waste), causing harm to human health and the environment, potentially creating barriers to trade and distorting competition. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring Cyprus to the European Court of Justice and sending Lithuania a reasoned opinion, requesting amendments to its national legislation. If Lithuania fails to reply within two months, the Commission may also refer their case to the Court.

Read more (IP/12/655)...

21/06/2012: Commission urges Bulgaria to comply with EU nature protection laws

The European Commission is concerned Bulgaria has not assessed the possible impact of wind turbines and other projects in protected areas of the Kaliakra region. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to ask Bulgaria to comply with applicable EU laws. If Bulgaria fails to do so within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice. Should the case reach the Court, the Commission may ask for interim measures as well as the removal of offending projects.

Read more (IP/12/654)...

21/06/2012: Commission urges Austria to comply with EU law on water services

The European Commission is concerned Austria is not fully applying the principle of cost recovery for water services. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to ask Austria to comply with EU law in this area. If Austria fails to do so within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/653)...

21/06/2012: Commission urges Austria to comply with EU law on nature conservation areas

The European Commission is concerned Austria is not carrying out required appropriate assessments of certain flood protection and other water-related projects to wildlife conservation areas. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to ask Austria to comply with EU law in this area. If Austria fails to do so within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/652)...

21/06/2012: EU law

Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented.

Read more (MEMO/12/464)...

15/06/2012: Will your city be the European Green Capital 2015?

Today the Commission launches the search to find the city that will win the European Green Capital title in 2015. The European Green Capital Award recognises cities that are at the forefront of environmentally-friendly urban living and which can act as role-models to inspire other cities. The annual award is intended to spur European cities to become more attractive and healthy places – "fit for life".

Read more (IP/12/610)...

15/06/2012: EU Commission at the Rio+20 conference – Media advisory

At the Rio+20 Conference, the EU is playing an active and constructive role in the negotiations and will organise side events in Rio to encourage debate.

Read more (MEMO/12/440)...

12/06/2012: Conference on Endocrine Disruptors

Current Challenges in Science and Policy (press memo)

Read more...

05/06/2012: How can we do more with less? Commission gathers high-level input on resource-efficient growth

Today Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik launched the European Resource Efficiency Platform to provide high-level guidance and advice on policy measures designed to transform the European economy towards a more sustainable growth path. Resource efficiency is a pillar of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, and is therefore a top priority for the European Commission. The primary task of the Platform will be to determine how to achieve the milestones and vision set out in the Commission's Roadmap to a resource-efficient Europe, including the ultimate vision of decoupling resource use and its impacts from economic growth.

Read more (IP/12/564)...

May 2012


31/05/2012: A new approach to assessing toxic chemical mixtures

The Commission undertakes to address potential risks associated with chemical mixtures are properly understood and assessed. Every day, we are exposed to mixtures of chemical substances, and these combinations may affect us in ways that the individual substances do not. EU laws set strict limits for the amounts of particular chemicals allowed in food, water, air and manufactured products, but the potentially toxic effects of these chemicals in combination are rarely examined. Under the new approach, the Commission will identify priority mixtures to be assessed, ensure that the different strands of EU legislation deliver consistent risk assessments for such priority mixtures, and fill in gaps in the scientific knowledge needed to assess the mixtures.

More (IP/12/541)...

31/05/2012: Commission urges Romania and Slovakia to comply with EU legislation on end-of-life vehicles

The European Commission is urging Romania and Slovakia to bring their national law on end-of-life vehicles into line with EU legislation. These Member States have failed to notify the Commission about the transposition of legislation updating a ban on hazardous metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium in materials and components of vehicles. These measures should have been in place since 31 December 2011. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending reasoned opinions and asking the countries to comply within two months. If they fail to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

More (IP/12/540)...

31/05/2012: Hungary and Romania asked to ensure protection of their wildlife habitats

The Commission has asked Hungary and Romania to step up the protection of habitats. Both countries have permitted activities or developments in environmentally sensitive areas without performing the appropriate impact assessments beforehand. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to Hungary and an additional reasoned opinion to Romania, asking them to correctly implement the relevant habitats protection legislation. If Hungary and Romania fail to comply within two months the Commission may refer their case to the EU Court of Justice.

More (IP/12/539)...

31/05/2012: Commission urges Italy to ensure adequate pre-treatment of waste landfilled in Rome

The European Commission is asking Italy to comply with the requirements of EU landfill legislation in Rome. Due to a narrow interpretation of what constitutes sufficient pre-treatment of waste by the Italian authorities, the Malagrotta landfill in the Lazio region contains waste that has not undergone the required pre-treatment, and the Commission is concerned that this might also be the case for other landfills in Lazio. Landfills operating in breach of EU waste legislation constitute a serious threat to human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion and asking Italy to comply within two months. If it fails to do so the Commission may decide to refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

More (IP/12/538)...

31/05/2012: Greece asked to comply with waste and waste water legislation

The Commission has asked Greece to improve its treatment of waste water and the functioning of a landfill facility. Twelve areas in Greece fail to treat their urban waste water to sufficient standards and a landfill site in Kiato is operating inadequately – this constitutes a serious threat to public health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending two reasoned opinions to Greece, asking for the correct implementation of the relevant legislation. If Greece fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

More (IP/12/537)...

31/05/2012: Commission refers Germany to Court over incomplete cost recovery for water services

The European Commission is concerned Germany is not fully applying the principle of cost recovery for water services. Under the Water Framework Directive, Member States must price water in a way that provides an adequate incentive to use it efficiently. Whilst Germany is of the opinion that such cost recovery should apply only to the supply of drinking water and the disposal and treatment of wastewater, the Commission considers that Germany's exclusion of other relevant activities such as hydro-power from the definition of water services hinders the full and correct application of the Water Framework Directive. Therefore, upon the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

More (IP/12/536)...

24/05/2012: EU announces winners of European Business Awards for the Environment 2012

EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik has announced the winners of the European Business Awards for the Environment 2012 at an evening ceremony at Green Week. The five winners reflect contributions to sustainable development in: management, product, and process innovation respectively, international business cooperation, and business and biodiversity. The 2012 winners are: Marks and Spencer (UK) for management; Aquamarine Power (UK) for product; Umicore (Belgium) for process; INENSUS GmbH (Germany) for international business cooperation; and Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. (Slovakia) for business and biodiversity.

More (IP/12/507)...

23/05/2012: Clean water at majority of EU holiday destinations

Good news if you're planning a beach holiday in Europe this summer. 92.1 % of bathing waters in the European Union now meet the minimum water quality standards set by the Bathing Water Directive. This includes the Serpentine Lake in London, which will host several Olympics events, including the Open Water Marathon Swim and the swimming section of the triathlon.

More (IP/12/501)...

22/05/2012: Wise up your water use with Water Maniac Walter

The European Commission launched a new viral clip today as part of the "Generation Awake!" campaign, which alerts consumers to the dangers of unsustainable patterns of consumption. The clip features Water Maniac Walter, a neurotic bucket who addresses the theme of excessive water use. The clip links to the Generation Awake website, a multilingual site intended to get citizens thinking about their consumption habits, and help them change their behaviour so as to live more sustainably.

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22/05/2012: Green Week opens in Brussels

Europe's largest environment conference kicked off today under the banner "The Water Challenge – Every Drop Counts". This year's edition of Green Week is dedicated to water, and will see some 3000 participants gather for three days to discuss water-related issues. Stakeholders, NGOs, government representatives and EU officials will search for solutions to key water problems, like how to safeguard the availability of good quality water against a backdrop of rapid population growth and ever more apparent climate change. Organisations and companies will showcase best practices at a 52-stand exhibition, and numerous side events include screenings of the films "La Soif du monde", "Oceans", and "Africa Turns Green". The week also features the European Business Awards for the Environment, which honour innovative companies that successfully combine innovation, competitiveness and outstanding environmental performance, and the 3rd European Water Conference, a high-level stakeholder event.

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21/05/2012: Celebrating 20 years of EU nature protection

Today is the 20th anniversary of two key instruments for the conservation and sustainable use of nature in the EU: the Habitats Directive and LIFE, the EU financing programme for the environment. Twenty years ago, EU Member States unanimously adopted the Habitats Directive to safeguard the most threatened species and habitats across Europe. This was in response to concerns over rapidly declining wildlife and loss of natural habitats, resulting from land-use changes, pollution and urban sprawl. To give species and habitats space to recover, the Directive set up the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and the LIFE financial instrument has provided strategic support to its development.

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14/05/2012: Commission to address water challenges via innovation partnership

The European Commission today proposed to boost innovation to deal with water related challenges by creating a European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on Water. The partnership will bring together all relevant actors across borders and sectors, such as the water sector, small and medium sized enterprises, the research community, local governments, water-using industries, and the financial sector to accelerate the development and uptake of innovative solutions to water challenges. A Strategic Implementation Plan will be developed with key stakeholders to define the priority areas for action. The EIP on Water will seek to align the activities and outcomes of existing European, national and regional activities.

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08/05/2012: €34.8 million in new funding to bring environmental solutions to market

The European Commission is launching a €34.8 million call for eco-innovation projects. Businesses and entrepreneurs from across Europe can apply for funding to help bring novel environmental projects to the market. The call is open to eco-innovative products, techniques, services and processes that aim to prevent or reduce environmental impacts, or which contribute to the optimal use of resources. The call for applications is open until 6 September 2012, and around 50 projects will be selected for funding.

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April 2012


26/04/2012: Commission asks Court to impose financial penalties on four Member States, urges Belgium to comply with EU waste legislation

The European Commission is referring Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia to the EU Court of Justice for failing to meet the December 2010 deadline to transpose the EU's Waste Framework Directive into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission is asking the Court to impose penalty payments on the four countries in question.

Read more (IP/12/422)...

26/04/2012: Commission asks Austria to comply with EU legislation on environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging Austria to bring its national legislation on environmental impact assessment into line with EU rules. The Commission is concerned that the potential environmental effects of a development to an Austrian ski-run were not assessed as required by EU law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending Austria a reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

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23/04/2012: Global Outlook Report looks at worldwide efforts in promoting Sustainable Consumption and Production

Successful initiatives to promote sustainable consumption and production are flourishing around the globe, but further efforts are needed to embed such practices in existing policy frameworks, according to a new Global Outlook Report published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in collaboration with the European Commission. The Report released today at Stockholm+40, an event marking the 40th anniversary of the UN Conference on the Human Environment, presents an overview of efforts worldwide to shift towards sustainable consumption and production (SCP) patterns. The aim is to identify and share promising examples of effective policies and to propose recommendations to help support for SCP move ahead.

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16/04/2012: Getting gold from garbage – how some Member States are making waste a resource

Top performing Member States have recycling rates of up to 70 % and bury virtually nothing, whilst others still landfill more than three-quarters of their waste. How have the best performers turned waste from a problem into a resource? A new report from the European Commission today explains that it is by combining economic instruments. A mix of landfilling and incineration taxes and bans, producer responsibility schemes and pay-as-you-throw prove to be the most effective tools in shifting waste streams to more sustainable paths.. If the EU is to meet the objectives set out in the Resource Efficiency Roadmap – zero landfilling, maximising recycling and reuse, and limiting energy recovery to non recyclable waste – these economic instruments will need to be introduced more widely across all Member States.

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12/04/2012: Bristol, Copenhagen and Frankfurt shortlisted for 2014 European Green Capital award

Bristol, Copenhagen and Frankfurt have been chosen as the three finalists in the competition to find Europe's Green Capital for 2014. They have been selected from the 18 cities that applied for the 2014 award. The finalists were proposed by an independent panel of experts, who assessed the entries in 12 different areas.

Read more (IP/12/362)...

12/04/2012: Guidelines to limit soil sealing

Soil sealing – the covering of the ground by an impermeable material – is one of the main causes of soil degradation in the EU. Soil sealing often affects fertile agricultural land, puts biodiversity at risk, increases the risk of flooding and water scarcity and contributes to global warming. New guidelines on best practice to limit, mitigate and compensate soil sealing made public by the European Commission today collect examples of policies, legislation, funding schemes, local planning tools, information campaigns and many other best practices implemented throughout the EU. The guidelines call for smarter spatial planning and using more permeable materials to preserve our soil.

Read more (IP/12/361)...

March 2012


30/03/2012: Commission wants your views on priority objectives for the environment

The Commission has launched a public consultation to gather views on the 7th EU Environmental Action Programme (7th EAP), which will set out priority objectives to be pursued up until 2020. The consultation remains open until 1 June.

Read more (IP/12/334)...

23/03/2012: Commission proposes tighter laws on ship breaking

The European Commission today proposed new rules to ensure that European ships are only recycled in facilities that are safe for workers and environmentally sound. More than 1000 large old commercial ships, such as tankers and container vessels, are recycled for their scrap metal every year, but many European ships end up in substandard facilities on the tidal beaches of South Asia. These facilities mostly lack the environmental protection and safety measures needed to manage the hazardous materials contained in end-of-life ships. These include asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), tributyl tin and oil sludge. This leads to high accident rates and health risks for workers and extensive environmental pollution.

Read more (IP/12/310)...

22/03/2012: 14 companies nominated for the 2012 European Business Awards for the Environment

The shortlist for the 2012 European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) has been revealed, following a two-day jury meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark. The 14 finalists come from Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Portugal, Slovakia, Finland and the United Kingdom. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Brussels on 24 May 2012, during Green Week, the European Commission's annual conference on environment policy. The European Business Awards for the Environment are granted to innovative companies that successfully combine innovation, competitiveness and outstanding environmental performance.

Read more (IP/12/306)...

22/03/2012: Environmental Crimes: Commission takes Cyprus to Court for failing to transpose EU rules

The European Commission is referring Cyprus to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to take measures to ensure that serious breaches of EU environmental law are considered criminal offences and punished. The deadline for transposing Directive 2008/99/EC on the protection of the environment through criminal law was 26 December 2010. However, Cyprus has still not adopted the measures necessary to implement the Directive in national law. In accordance with the Lisbon Treaty, the Commission will ask the Court to impose on Cyprus a daily penalty payment of € 5909.40 until the adoption of all the necessary national measures for a complete transposition.

Read more (IP/12/296)...

22/03/2012: Commission asks Slovakia to comply with EU legislation on strategic environmental impact assessments and packaging waste

The European Commission is sending Slovakia two reasoned opinions about its environmental legislation. The first concerns impact assessments, as the Commission is concerned that the potential environmental effects of the 2007-2010 road-building programme in Slovakia were not assessed as required by EU law. The second issue concerns a failure to transpose legislation on packaging and packaging waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending two reasoned opinions. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/295)...

22/03/2012: Commission asks Sweden to comply with EU legislation on strategic environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging Sweden to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of plans and programmes on the environment into line with EU rules. The current legislation on strategic environmental assessments in Sweden still contains shortcomings. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/294)...

22/03/2012: Commission urges Poland to ensure proper disposal of end-of-life vehicles

The European Commission is asking Poland to bring its national law into line with EU rules on proper disposal of end-of-life vehicles. The Commission is concerned about continued shortcomings and the slow pace of changes to Polish legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. Poland has two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/293)...

22/03/2012: Commission asks Italy to transpose water legislation correctly

Italy is failing to comply with EU legislation on water protection. The shortcomings relate to various aspects of the integration of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. If Italy fails to reply within two months, or its reply is deemed unsatisfactory, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/292)...

22/03/2012: Europeans call for stronger EU action on Water

Close to three quarters of Europeans think that the EU should propose additional measures to address water problems in Europe, according to a Eurobarometer survey published today. A sizeable majority – 68 % – think that water-related problems are serious. Droughts, floods and chemical pollution are seen as significant challenges. 62 % of citizens also feel they are not sufficiently well informed, while 67 % think the most effective means of reducing water-related problems would be awareness-raising about water-related problems. Heavier fines for polluters, a fairer pricing policy or financial incentives (tax breaks or subsidies) also gained support. Against that backdrop, 73 % of Europeans call for more measures at EU-level to reduce water problems.

Read more (IP/12/289)...

22/03/2012: World Water Day – EU research on water

22 March marks the annual celebration of World Water Day. Together with ministerial delegations from more than 100 countries, the European Union endorsed a Ministerial Declaration on Water at last week's World Water Forum. Action is needed to balance the difficult water supply and demand equation, handle water stress or water scarcity in times of changing climate and sustain our water ecosystems. The European Commission supports research to help to manage our water resources sustainably and achieve the shift towards an internationally competitive, water-efficient economy in Europe.

Read more (MEMO/12/203)...

22/03/2012: EU law

Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

Read more (MEMO/12/200)...

08/03/2012: Preparation Environment Council, 9 March 2012

The first Environment Council under the Danish Presidency will be held on 9 March in Brussels. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard and Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy John Dalli will represent the European Commission. The Council is expected to adopt conclusions on three issues: the roadmap for moving to a low-carbon economy, the follow-up to the Durban climate conference, and the EU negotiating position for the UN Rio+20 conference on sustainable development to be held in Brazil in June. The legislative deliberations will include an attempt to reach a political agreement on the proposed Regulation that would allow Member States to restrict or prohibit the cultivation of GMOs in their territory. An orientation debate will also be held on the political direction to be taken as regards the Proposal for a new Regulation on LIFE, the funding instrument for Climate Action and Environment. Among the Any Other Business (AOB) points, the Commission and the Presidency will present ideas about how to take forward resource efficiency and low-carbon considerations within the European Semester/Annual Growth Survey in the wake of the March European Council.

Read more (MEMO/12/170)...

07/03/2012: Better implementation will lower costs and improve the environment

Failing to implement environment legislation is thought to cost the EU economy around €50 billion every year in health costs and direct costs to the environment. In an effort to reduce that figure and deliver better environmental outcomes for people and businesses, the Commission today issued a communication on better implementation of EU environment law.

Read more (IP/12/220)...

07/03/2012: Communication on Implementing EU environment legislation – Questions & Answers

Read more (MEMO/12/159)...

05/03/2012: Bologna wins European Mobility Week Award 2011

The Italian city of Bologna has won the 2011 European Mobility Week Award. The city was judged by an independent panel of mobility experts to have done the best job in promoting clean alternatives to using cars and involving citizens in activities to support sustainable urban mobility during European Mobility Week 2011. The runners-up were Larnaka in Cyprus and the Croatian capital Zagreb. The award was handed to the winning city by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Vice-President Siim Kallas European Commissioner for Transport at a ceremony in the Brussels Musical Instrument Museum on 5 March 2012.

Read more (IP/12/218)...

February 2012


29/02/2012: What are your views on uninvited guests?

There are many cases where animals and plants have been introduced to an environment that is not naturally theirs, and are now spreading so fast that they become a threat to biological diversity. Some originally "non native" species such as the tomato or potato have historically been introduced without any problem. However, numerous other species including Canada geese, American bullfrogs, Japanese knotweed and Caulerpa seaweed are now spreading in our environment and threatening local fauna and flora and causing considerable damage to ecosystems and biodiversity. Such cases of "invasive alien species" can also threaten public health, damage crops and livestock and have serious economic effects. The European Commission is considering ways to tackle this problem, including a new dedicated legislative instrument, and seeking views through an on-line consultation on how to deal with the issue most effectively. The results of the consultation will feed into a proposal to appear later this year.

Read more (IP/12/199)...

27/02/2012: Commission asks Poland to correctly transpose legislation concerning water monitoring

Poland has not yet complied with EU legislation on water protection, including monitoring of water quality. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending an additional reasoned opinion to ask Poland to correctly implement the EU's Water Framework Directive (WFD). This is the third time Poland has been reminded of the need to comply with EU water legislation and if Poland fails to reply within one month, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/172)...

27/02/2012: Malta asked to ensure bird protection

The Commission has asked Malta to improve the protection of birds that pass over its islands in the autumn. Since Malta joined the EU in 2004 it has allowed the autumn trapping of four species of birds protected by EU laws: the Turtle Dove, Quail, Golden Plover and Song Thrush. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to ask Malta to correctly implement the relevant bird protection legislation. If Malta fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/171)...

27/02/2012: Commission takes France to Court for failing to combat water pollution by nitrates

The European Commission is referring France to the EU Court of Justice for failing to take measures to guarantee that water pollution by nitrates is addressed effectively. Although the Nitrates Directive has been in force since 1991, France has still not designated a number of zones that are vulnerable to nitrates pollution, and it has yet to adopt measures to effectively combat nitrates pollution in these zones. The Commission is therefore taking France to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/12/170)...

17/02/2012: Environmental impact assessment now more user friendly

To help Member States' authorities and developers manage the environmental consequences of construction projects more easily, the Commission has brought together all existing EU legislation governing environmental impact assessments. The original Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive and its three subsequent revisions have been combined to create a more compact, clearly translated and user-friendly version which comes into force today.

Read more (IP/12/145)...

13/02/2012: Commission calls for a stronger response to soil degradation

Soil degradation is a worrying phenomenon in the EU. Between 1990 and 2006, at least 275 hectares of soil per day were permanently lost through soil sealing – the covering of fertile land by impermeable material – amounting to 1,000 km² per year, or an area the size of Cyprus every ten years. Soil erosion by water is estimated to affect 1.3 million km² in Europe, an area equivalent to 2.5 times the size of France. Soil degradation affects our capacity to produce food, prevent droughts and flooding, stop biodiversity loss, and tackle climate change. These are some of the main findings of two new reports on the policy and scientific aspects of European soil presented by the European Commission.

Read more (IP/12/128)...

13/02/2012: New Classification and Labelling Inventory opens way to safer use of hazardous substances

A big step towards a safer use of hazardous chemicals was taken today with the publication of the first EU Classification and Labelling Inventory. Released by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), it lists the classification of all the chemical substances used in the EU which allows identifying those that are potentially hazardous and may damage health and the environment. The aim is to provide industry, and in particular small companies, with easy access to information on the hazardousness of a given substance, facilitating the task to correctly classify and label substances and mixtures, as well as substitution of hazardous substances with less damaging alternatives where feasible.

Read more (IP/12/123)...

13/02/2012: Classification and labelling Inventory - Questions and Answers

The CLP Regulation requires all importers and manufacturers of hazardous substances placed on the EU market to notify the classification and labelling of their substances to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). All substances on the EU market on 1 December 2010 should have been notified before the 3 January 2011 and new substances should be notified within one month of placing on the market.

Read more (MEMO/12/96)...

08/02/2012: SWITCH-Asia –promoting sustainable consumption and production in Asia

Today marks the European Launch of the UN Year of Sustainable Energy for All. Following a two-day seminar on SWITCH-Asia, a grants programme funded through the EU Development Cooperation Instrument, Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Development Commissioner Andris Piebalgs concluded: "This year's Rio +20 Conference will put sustainable consumption and production and the green economy in the spotlight as key priorities for development, and SWITCH-Asia underlines how these objectives can work in practice. With its projects that help businesses and consumers go green, the programme presents practical, tangible examples of shifting from analysis to action. The Commission will now build on these successes and roll out the programme to other regions of the world as part of its effort to promote Sustainable Consumption and Production globally. SWITCH-Asia gives us a glimpse of the overall vision of sustainability we need for the 21st century at home and abroad."

Read more (MEMO/12/82)...

02/02/2012: World Wetland Day 2012

Today we celebrate World Wetland Day – and focus on Europe's rich heritage of wetlands: lakes and rivers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands and peatlands, estuaries, deltas, tidal flats and so on.

Read more...

01/02/2012: Commission wants your views on how we can produce and consume more sustainably

By 2050 the global population is set to reach 9 billion people and worldwide demand for food, feed and fibre is forecast to increase by 70%. To thrive in that context, economies will need to use natural resources in a far more efficient manner. The way we consume and produce will be key to Europe's success or failure in this process. This is why the Commission intends to revise the EU's Consumption and Production policies and has launched a public consultation that will remain open until 3 April.

Read more (IP/12/92)...

January 2012


31/01/2012: Environment and Water: proposal to reduce water pollution risks

Improvements in water quality in the EU could be at risk from new forms of chemical pollution. The Commission is proposing to add 15 chemicals to the list of 33 pollutants that are monitored and controlled in EU surface waters. This is another step towards improving the quality of our river, lake and coastal waters. The 15 substances include industrial chemicals as well as substances used in biocides, pharmaceuticals and plant protection products. They have been selected on the basis of scientific evidence that they may pose a significant risk to health.

Read more (IP/12/88)...

31/01/2012: Proposal for a revised directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on Priority Substances in the field of water quality

Priority Substances are chemical pollutants that pose a significant risk to (or via) the aquatic environment at EU level. There are currently 33 of these Priority Substances listed in Annex X of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). Member States have to monitor their concentrations in surface waters and meet the Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) set for them within a certain timeline, unless they meet conditions that allow them to apply exemptions.

Read more (MEMO/12/59)...

26/01/2012: Commission urges Germany to comply with EU waste legislation

The European Commission is taking action against Germany for failing to meet the deadline for transposing the Waste Framework Directive into national law, which should have been in place since 12 December 2010. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending Germany a reasoned opinion. If Germany fails to adopt and communicate the necessary legislation within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice and ask for financial penalties.

Read more (IP/12/71)...

26/01/2012: Commission urges Poland to comply with nature protection rules

The European Commission is warning Poland over a breach of nature protection legislation. The case concerns a failure to assess the environmental impact of open-cast mining in a Natura 2000 conservation area at Goplo Lake in North Central Poland. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion and asking Poland to comply within two months. If it fails to do so, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/70)...

26/01/2012: Commission urges Italy to comply with extractive mining waste rules

The European Commission is asking Italy to bring its national legislation into line with European norms on extractive mining waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion and asking Italy to comply within two months. If it fails to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/69)...

26/01/2012: Commission asks Italy to strengthen laws on environmental liability

The Commission is concerned that Italy has incorrectly implemented EU legislation on environmental liability, leading to insufficient protection for Italian citizens. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending Italy an additional reasoned opinion to ask it to adjust its national legislation accordingly. If Italy fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/68)...

26/01/2012: Commission asks France to comply with European packaging waste legislation

The European Commission is concerned that France has incorrectly implemented the definition of packaging and packaging waste in its national law, as required by EU waste legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending France a reasoned opinion to ask it to amend its national legislation accordingly. If France fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/67)...

26/01/2012: Commission urges Cyprus and Greece to clean up waste landfills

The European Commission is urging Greece and Cyprus to comply with the requirements of EU landfill legislation in Cyprus and on the Greek islands of Zakynthos and Corfu. Landfills operating in breach of EU waste legislation constitute a serious threat to human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending reasoned opinions and asking Greece and Cyprus to comply within two months. If they fail to do so the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/12/66)...

26/01/2012: Commission urges Belgium and Luxemburg to comply with EU water legislation

The European Commission is sending a reasoned opinion to Belgium and Luxemburg for their failure to transpose EU water legislation into national law. Neither Member State has notified the Commission about the transposition of Directive 2009/90/EC on technical specifications for chemical analysis and monitoring of water status, which should have been in place by 1 August 2011. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending reasoned opinions and asking Belgium and Luxemburg to comply within two months. If they fail to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and ask for immediate financial penalties.

Read more (IP/12/65)...

13/01/2012: Waste – a short cut to job creation and lower costs

Full implementation of EU waste legislation would save €72 billion a year, increase the annual turnover of the EU waste management and recycling sector by €42 billion and create over 400,000 jobs by 2020 according to a European Commission study published today. Illegal waste operations in Member States are causing missed opportunities for economic growth, but stronger national inspections and better knowledge about waste management would bring major improvements.

Read more (IP/12/18)...

December 2011


16/12/2011: Preparation Environment Council, 19 December 2011

The final Environment Council under the Polish Presidency will be held on 19 December in Brussels. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council is expected to adopt conclusions on two issues: the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2020, adopted in May this year, and on the Roadmap to a Resource-Efficient Europe presented by the Commission in September. Among the Any Other Business (AOB) points, the Commission will present its proposal for a new LIFE fund for environment and climate for the period 2014-2020, which aims at a significant budget increase, expands the current support for climate action and introduces Integrated Projects.

Read more (MEMO/11/919)...

15/12/2011: Eco-innovation Action Plan Launched: helping business to deliver green growth and environmental benefits.

Brussels, 15 December 2011 – Eco-innovation is crucial to delivering the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The new Eco-Innovation Action Plan (EcoAP) will boost innovation that reduces pressure on the environment, and bridge the gap between innovation and the market. Eco-friendly technologies are good for business and help create new jobs, so eco-innovation is crucial to the economic competitiveness of Europe.

Read more (IP/11/1547)...

15/12/2011: Commission launches new initiative to help cutting-edge green technologies reach the market

Brussels, 15 December 2011 – The European Commission is launching a new instrument to help companies that are developing innovative environmental technologies. The Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) pilot programme will provide independent verification of the performance of new environmental technologies. This will help manufacturers prove the reliability of performance claims, and help technology purchasers identify innovations that suit their needs.

Read more (IP/11/1544)...

13/12/2011: Meeting the waste water treatment challenge

Brussels, 13 December 2011 – Between 2007 and 2013, some 14 billion EUR will be spent across the EU on infrastructure for the collection or treatment of waste water under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWT). The aim is to ensure that human and industrial waste doesn't adversely affect human health and the environment. The latest report on implementation of the Directive, for the period 2007/2008, shows that work is progressing well but that collection and treatment compliance rates could still improve. It reveals that most longstanding EU Member States (EU-15)1 maintained good standards of waste water treatment and improved on treatment of sensitive waters, while newer Members States (EU-12) improved on overall collection and treatment.

Read more (IP/11/1531)...

12/12/2011: Significant boost in EU support for the environment and climate through the new LIFE programme

Brussels, 12 December 2011 – The Commission proposes to allocate EUR 3.2 billion over 2014-2020 to a new Programme for the Environment and Climate Action - LIFE. The proposed new programme will build on the success of the existing LIFE+ Programme but will be reformed to have a greater impact, be simpler and more flexible and have a significantly increased budget.

Read more (IP/11/1526)...

12/12/2011: Questions and answers on the proposal for a Regulation of a new Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE)

The Commission has adopted a proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE). The proposal is part of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2014-2020 which sets out the budgetary framework and main orientations for delivering Europe 2020 strategy (the "MFF Communication)".

Read more (MEMO/11/893)...

November 2011


24/11/2011: Commission urges Italy to comply with court rulings on nature protection

The European Commission is asking Italy to comply with three court rulings on a number of failures to provide adequate protection for wild birds. Wild birds are protected in Europe under the Birds Directive , and on three occasions (in 2008, and twice in 2010), the EU Court of Justice has found that Italian law falls short of EU standards in this area. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a letter of formal notice, asking Italy to make good the shortcomings.

Read more (IP/11/1435)...

24/11/2011: Commission takes Poland to Court over air quality and marine policy legislation and urges compliance with the Nitrates Directive

The European Commission is referring Poland to the Court of Justice of the European Union and asking for financial penalties to be imposed for two failures to transpose EU legislation into national law. Despite earlier warnings, Poland has failed to notify the Commission about the transposition of legislation on the Ambient Air Quality Directive, which should have been in place since 11 June 2010, and about a strategy to protect its seas, which should have been in place since 15 July 2010. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is asking the Court to impose penalty payments. The penalty payments requested are 71,521€ per day for the Ambient Air Quality Directive, and 59,834€ per day in the case of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The penalties take into account the seriousness and duration of the infringements. They consist of daily penalty payments to be paid from the date of the judgment (assuming that there is no compliance by then) until transposition is completed.

Read more (IP/11/1434)...

24/11/2011: Commission asks Ireland to recover costs of all water services

The Commission is concerned that Ireland has incorrectly implemented the concept of water services as described in EU water legislation – leading to inappropriate water pricing. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending Ireland a reasoned opinion to ask it to adjust its national legislation accordingly. If Ireland fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1433)...

24/11/2011: EU law

Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

Read more (MEMO/11/824)...

22/11/2011: Alarming decline in plants, molluscs and freshwater fish

Europe's natural heritage is showing an alarming decline, according to new research published today. The European Red List, a part of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, assessed a considerable portion of Europe's native fauna and flora, finding that a large proportion of molluscs, freshwater fish and vascular plants now fall into the threatened category. The assessment of some 6000 species reveals that 44% of all freshwater molluscs, 37% of freshwater fish, 23% of amphibians, 20% of a selection of terrestrial molluscs, 19% of reptiles, 15% of mammals and of dragonflies, 13% of birds, 11% of a selection of saproxylic beetles, 9% of butterflies, and 467 species of vascular plant species are now under threat.

Read more (IP/11/1387)...

21/11/2011: Major expansion of Europe's protected natural areas

Natura 2000, the EU's network of protected areas, has undergone a significant expansion. Nearly 18 800 square kilometres have been added, including a major addition of marine areas covering 17 000 square kilometres which will increase protection for many endangered marine species. The network now covers almost 18% of the EU's landmass and more than 145 000 km² of its seas. The main countries involved in this latest expansion are the UK, France, Belgium, Greece, Cyprus, Hungary, Lithuania and Italy. Natura 2000 is the centrepiece of Europe's battle to halt biodiversity loss and safeguard ecosystem services.

Read more (IP/11/1376)...

21/11/2011: Details on the new additions to the Union lists of Natura 2000 sites

The latest update of the Natura 2000 lists concerns sixteen Member States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the UK. The number of "Sites of Community Importance" has increased by 166 to a total of 22 558, expanding the SCI network by 2.6 % or by nearly 18 800 km².

Read more (MEMO/11/806)...

18/11/2011: Commission recognises eco-innovative solutions

The European Commission has announced this year's winners of the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme Awards. The six winning organisations not only showed excellence in respecting and safeguarding the environment, but also in applying innovative solutions to involve different stakeholders. The awards were handed out last night in Krakow, Poland.

Read more (IP/11/1371)...

October 2011


27/10/2011: Commission urges Hungary to comply with extractive mining waste rules

The European Commission is asking Hungary to bring its national legislation in line with European norms on extractive mining waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion and asking Hungary to comply within two months. If it fails to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1289)...

27/10/2011: Commission urges Poland to comply with EU waste legislation

The European Commission is taking action against Poland in two cases concerning waste legislation. In the first case the Commission has identified several shortcomings in the transposition of EU legislation on the management of waste from extractive industries into Polish national legislation. In the second, the Commission has concerns about Poland's failure to adequately transpose the EU legislation on packaging waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending two reasoned opinions and asking Poland to comply within two months. If it fails to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1275)...

27/10/2011: Commission takes Luxembourg back to court over waste water treatment and asks for a fine

The European Commission is referring Luxembourg back to the European Court of Justice for poor treatment of urban waste water. The Court previously ruled in November 2006 that Luxembourg was failing in its obligation to treat and dispose of urban waste water in an adequate manner. Nearly five years after the Court's ruling, four agglomerations in Luxembourg do not yet comply with EU legislation, including the capital. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is asking the Court to impose fines, suggesting a lump sum of 11 340 € and a daily penalty payment of 1 248 € until the obligations are fulfilled.

Read more (IP/11/1273)...

27/10/2011: Commission prompts Finland to comply with waste and environmental assessments legislation

The European Commission is taking action against Finland for concerns about the country's transposition of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive and its failure to meet the 2010 deadline to transpose the EU Waste Framework Directive into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending two reasoned opinions and asking Finland to comply within two months. If Finland fails to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and, in the non-communication waste case, ask for immediate financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/1268)...

27/10/2011: Commission urges France and Greece to strengthen measures to combat water pollution by nitrates

The European Commission is urging France and Greece to take stronger measures to combat water pollution caused by nitrates. In France, the current legal framework and the nitrates action plans for zones vulnerable to nitrate pollution do not effectively guarantee that this pollution is addressed effectively, as required by EU law. Greece too has a number of failings in this area. In spite of the Directive being in force since 1991, both Member States have still not fully implemented it. The Member States have yet to designate all the zones which are vulnerable to nitrates pollution and adopt measures to effectively combat nitrates pollution in these zones. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion will be sent to France on both the designation and insufficient action grounds and a reasoned opinion on the action programme will be sent to Greece. The Member States have two months to comply. Failing this, the Commission may decide to refer their cases to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1266)...

27/10/2011: Commission asks Belgium, Denmark, Finland and Sweden to recover costs of all water services

The Commission is concerned that Belgium, Denmark, Finland and Sweden have incorrectly implemented the concept of water services as described in EU water legislation – leading to inappropriate water pricing. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending the Member States a reasoned opinion to ask them to adjust their national legislation accordingly. If the countries fail to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1264)...

27/10/2011: EU moves towards stronger protection for the Mediterranean from offshore activities

The European Commission took an important step towards better protection for the Mediterranean Sea today, with a proposal for the EU to accede to a Protocol of the Barcelona Convention that protects the Mediterranean against pollution from offshore exploration and exploitation activities. Such activities are increasing in the Mediterranean, and the area is particularly vulnerable due to its semi-closed configuration and significant seismic activity.

Read more (IP/11/1261)...

27/10/2011: Environmental crimes: Commission requests 3 Member States to adopt EU anti-sea pollution rules

The European Commission has given Austria, Finland and the UK two months to transpose EU rules laying down criminal penalties against sea pollution and other environmental offences into national laws.

Read more (IP/11/1246)...

18/10/2011: What is a "nanomaterial"? European Commission breaks new ground with a common definition

"Nanomaterials" are materials whose main constituents have a dimension of between 1 and 100 billionth of a metre, according to a recommendation adopted by the European Commission today. The announcement marks an important step towards greater protection for citizens, clearly defining which materials need special treatment in specific legislation.

Read more (IP/11/1202)...

18/10/2011: Questions and answers on the Commission Recommendation on the definition of nanomaterial

Read more (MEMO/11/704)...

17/10/2011: Commission launches a campaign on resource efficiency

Today saw the launch of "Generation Awake. Your choices make a world of difference!" an EU campaign designed to encourage consumers to make resource efficiency habit. The campaign was unveiled in Poland by European Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Polish Environment Minister Andrzej Kraszewski. Its aim is to raise awareness about the need to use scarce natural resources wisely, and to encourage citizens to think about their impact on the planet when making purchasing decisions.

Read more (IP/11/1196)...

07/10/2011: Preparation Environment Council, 10 October 2011

The first Environment Council under the Polish Presidency will be held on 10 October in Luxembourg. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council is expected to adopt conclusions on four issues: the UN climate conference in Durban starting in late November; the evaluation of the Sixth Environmental Action Programme, adopted by the Commission in August; the preparations for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development ("Rio +20") to be held in Rio De Janeiro, on 4-6 June 2012; and the next meeting of the Basel Convention on controlling transboundary movements of hazardous waste, to be held in Colombia on 17-21 October. Among the AOB points, the Commission will present the recently adopted Roadmap to a Resource-Efficient Economy.

Read more (MEMO/11/673)...

September 2011


29/09/2011: Commission urges Spain to complete legislation for river basin management plans

The European Commission is taking action against Spain over shortcomings in its transposition of EU water legislation. As Spain already received a communication from the Commission on the matter and has failed to adopt the measures required to meet EU standards, the Commission is referring the case to the EU Court of Justice, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Read more (IP/11/1105)...

29/09/2011: Commission continues to pursue Spain over incomplete execution of the Zoo Directive

The Commission is sending Spain a reminder about its obligation to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling on the situation of animals in zoos. In December 2010, the Court ruled that Spain was failing to license zoos properly in a number of regions. Nearly a year later, the Commission still has no proof that licensing is working properly, or that substandard zoos have been closed. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending Spain a Letter of Formal Notice. If Spain fails to respond appropriately, the Commission may return to the Court and ask for financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/1104)...

29/09/2011: Commission prompts Belgium and Romania to comply with the EU Waste Framework Directive

The European Commission is taking action against Belgium and Romania as they did not meet the 2010 deadline to transpose the EU Waste framework legislation into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending the Member States a Reasoned Opinion and asking them to comply within two months. If they fail to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and ask for immediate financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/1103)...

29/09/2011: Commission urges Italy to resolve Campania waste management situation

The Commission is urging Italy to find effective short and long-term waste management solutions for the Campania region. This region was subject to repetitive waste crises. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a letter of formal notice is being sent, reminding Italy of its obligations and of the need to comply with a 2010 ruling by the EU Court of Justice. If Italy fails to comply, the Commission may bring the case back to the Court and ask for fines.

Read more (IP/11/1102)...

29/09/2011: Commission asks Germany to apply cost recovery obligations to all water services

The European Commission is asking Germany to comply with EU water legislation. The Commission is concerned with Germany's interpretation of the key notion of water services, which could lead to inadequate cost recovery and water pricing under German law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. If Germany fails to reply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/1101)...

29/09/2011: EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against 27 Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions cover many sectors. They aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken today 500 decisions, including 5 decisions to refer Member States to the European Union's Court of Justice. In this package there are no decisions related to failure to respect a previous Court ruling.

Read more (MEMO/11/646)...

23/09/2011: Chemicals/REACH: Conference looks at early results and future challenges for chemicals registration

Past achievements and lessons learnt for the future of the REACH registration process will be debated at a conference organised by the European Commission and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), in Brussels today.

Read more (IP/11/1068)...

20/09/2011: Commission sets out the path to resource-efficient growth

Today the European Commission set out a 'roadmap' aimed at transforming Europe's economy into a sustainable one by 2050. The Roadmap to a resource-efficient Europe outlines how we can achieve the resource efficient growth which is essential for our future wellbeing and prosperity. The roadmap identifies the economic sectors that consume the most resources, and suggests tools and indicators to help guide action in Europe and internationally. It is an agenda for competitiveness and growth based on using fewer resources when we produce and consume goods and creating business and job opportunities from activities such as recycling, better product design, materials substitution and eco-engineering.

Read more (IP/11/1046)...

15/09/2011: European Mobility Week 2011: "Alternative Mobility"

From 16 to 22 September 2011, hundreds of European towns and cities will participate in the tenth edition of European Mobility Week, inviting citizens to a wide range of activities around sustainable mobility. This year's theme – Alternative Mobility – aims to promote resource-efficient alternatives to the private cars that still dominate urban transport. The week encourages local authorities and citizens to highlight the many positive impacts of other means of transport.

Read more (IP/11/1032)...

07/09/2011: Two exhibitions show cities can be sustainable

The 'Train of Ideas' rolls into Brussels today, the latest city in a series of stops around Europe which has included Paris, Copenhagen, Munich, Warsaw, Barcelona and others. The arrival of the exhibition on sustainable urban living created by Hamburg, European Green Capital 2011 will be attended by EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Hamburg's Senator for Urban Development and Environment Jutta Blankau and Brussels' Minister for the Environment, Energy and Urban Renovation Evelyne Huytebroeck. At the same time they will inaugurate the exhibition "Brussels, A Sustainable City!" showing how Brussels Capital Region plans to become a European model of sustainable development. Both exhibitions aim to demonstrate how cities can be both attractive and sustainable in the future.

Read more (IP/11/1006)...

August 2011


31/08/2011: Final assessment of the 6th Environment Action Programme shows progress in environment policy – but with shortfalls in implementation

Over the past decade the 6th Community Environment Action Programme (EAP) has helped environment legislation to tackle almost all areas of the environment. This is evident from the final assessment of the 6th EAP (2002-2012) adopted today. Major accomplishments in the field of environment during the past ten years have been the extension of the Natura 2000 network to cover almost 18% of the EU's land area, the introduction of a comprehensive chemicals policy, and policy action on climate change. However, there is progress to be made in implementing agreed EU objectives and rules and in improving biodiversity protection, soil and water quality. The decoupling of resource use from economic growth has not led to a decrease in overall resources use.

Read more (IP/11/996)...

July 2011


26/07/2011: Tighter restrictions on industrial creosote use

Tough restrictions on the industrial uses of creosote, a toxic chemical known for its use on wooden railway sleepers, electricity poles and in fencing, will come into force on 1 May 2013, following a tightening of rules by the European Commission. Creosote, a carcinogenic substance, may no longer be placed on the EU market unless a company receives an authorisation to do so. Consumer use of creosote has been banned since 2003.

Read more (IP/11/925)...

20/07/2011: Fewer risks from hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment

The ban on heavy metals and other dangerous chemicals in electrical and electronic equipment has now been extended to a much wider range of products, with new rules entering into force tomorrow. The new law will improve the safety of electronic products such as thermostats, medical devices and control panels, and will prevent the release of hazardous substances into the environment. Member States have 18 months to transpose the new rules.

Read more (IP/11/912)...

19/07/2011: Commission to provide €244 million for 183 new environment projects

The European Commission has (today) approved funding for 183 new projects under the LIFE+ programme, the European Union's environment fund. The projects involve all EU Member States and cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, climate change, clean technology, environmental policy and information and communication on environmental issues. Overall, they represent a total investment of some €530 million, of which the EU will provide €244 million.

Read more (IP/11/902)...

19/07/2011: Environment/climate: list of all new projects funded under LIFE+

Read more (MEMO/11/524)...

15/07/2011: Commission proposes to cut sulphur dioxide emissions from shipping by 90 %

Better air quality is on the way, thanks to proposals from the European Commission to lower the sulphur content of shipping fuels. The proposals should reduce sulphur dioxide emissions by up to 90 %, and fine particle emissions by up to 80 %. The benefits for public health will be between EUR 15 and 34 billion, far exceeding the expected costs, which are in the range of EUR 2.6 to 11 billion. With nearly half of Europe's population living in areas where EU air quality objectives are still not met, air pollution is one of the main environmental worries facing citizens.

Read more (IP/11/888)...

15/07/2011: Questions and Answers on the Commission proposal on sulphur emissions from maritime transport

Why is the Commission proposing to change the legislation on marine fuels?

Read more (MEMO/11/512)...

June 2011


30/06/2011: Commission launches consultation on improving EU air quality policy

With up to 49% of Europeans living in areas where EU air quality objectives are still not met, air pollution is one of the main environmental worries facing EU citizens.

Read more (IP/11/813)...

30/06/2011: €35 million for eco-innovation comes on stream

Funding worth €35 million for 42 eco-innovation projects selected under the 2010 Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP) is now coming on stream, as applications are ongoing for the 2011 call for proposals.

Read more (IP/11/812)...

29/06/2011: Towards harmonised environmental information in Europe: have your say on standards that will affect everybody's life

Arranging a cross border emergency rescue, preventing major environmental damage or comparing energy consumption of buildings in different countries will soon be faster and easier thanks to improved data sharing in the EU.

Read more (IP/11/798)...

21/06/2011: Preparation Environment Council

The final Environment Council under the Hungarian Presidency will be held on 21 June in Luxembourg. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli, and Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council will open with a progress report on efforts to adopt the proposed recast of the Seveso Directive on the prevention of major chemical accidents. This will be followed by another progress report on proposed changes to legislation on GMO cultivation. Conclusions will be adopted on two files, on the Roadmap for moving to a competitive low-carbon economy in 2050 which was published on 8 March 2011, and on the Blueprint to Safeguard Europe's Water Resources scheduled for 2012. Among the AOB points, the Commission will update Ministers on developments regarding the 2008 Directive bringing aviation into the EU Emission Trading System, Ministers will hear information from Romania about CSD 19, and a presentation by the Commission about its plans for the Rio+20 conference. Poland will also outline its plans for its coming Council Presidency.

Read more (MEMO/11/433)...

20/06/2011: Towards a global green economy and better governance - the Commission presents policy orientations for the Rio+20 Conference

Today the European Commission adopted a Communication preparing the ground for the EU's position at the Rio+20 UN Sustainable Development Conference, which will be held in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012. The Communication outlines objectives and specific actions on the two inter-linked themes of the Conference: enabling the transition to a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, and ensuring better governance for sustainable development. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Development Commissioner Andris Piebalgs presented the Communication jointly, marking an important link between environment and development.

Read more (IP/11/754)...

20/06/2011: A huge majority of EU citizens care deeply about the environment

The latest survey by the European Commission shows that the environment is an important personal concern to more than 90% of respondents in every single Member State. A large majority of Europeans agree that using natural resources more efficiently and protecting the environment can boost economic growth in the EU. The report also contains a strong mandate for EU action: despite the economic crisis, almost 9 in 10 Europeans think EU funding should be allocated to support environmentally friendly activities. There is also massive support for legislation at the EU level: more than 8 in 10 Europeans agree that EU legislation is necessary to protect the environment in their country.

Read more (IP/11/753)...

16/06/2011: Bathing water quality remains high around the EU

The quality of bathing water across Europe declined slightly between 2009 and 2010, but the overall quality was still high. More than nine out of 10 bathing water sites now meet the minimum requirements. Cyprus was the star performer, with 100% of its bathing water sites meeting strict guide values, followed by Croatia (97.3%), Malta (95.4%), Greece (94.2%) and Ireland (90.1%). The results are from the annual Bathing Water Report from the European Environment Agency (EEA) and the European Commission, which compare water quality in more than 21,000 coastal and inland bathing sites across the EU-27. The Commission has also adopted new signs and symbols that will be used to inform the public on bathing water classification and on bathing restrictions.

Read more (IP/11/736)...

16/06/2011: Questions and answers on bathing water policy

How does the European Union help to clean up Europe's beaches?

Read more (MEMO/11/411)...

16/06/2011: Environmental crimes: Commission asks 12 Member States to implement EU rules

The European Commission has given 13 Member States two months to transpose EU rules laying down criminal penalties against sea pollution and other environmental offences. Directive 2008/99/EC on criminal law measures to protect the environment should have been introduced in national law by 26 December 2010. However, 10 countries (Cyprus, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, Malta, Portugal, Romania and Slovenia) have so far failed to do so.

Read more (IP/11/739)...

16/06/2011: Commission urges Sweden to respect EU nature legislation and protect endangered wolves

Despite efforts done Sweden has not yet brought its policy for the protection of endangered wolves into line with EU rules on nature protection. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission has therefore decided to send a reasoned opinion requesting Sweden to amend its wolf policy. Sweden has two months to comply. If it fails to do so, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/732)...

16/06/2011: Commission asks Italy to comply with Court judgement on end-of-life vehicles

The European Commission is urging Italy to comply with a 2007 Court judgement relating to end of life vehicles. The Commission is concerned with continued shortcomings in the transposition of the legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a complementary letter of formal notice asking Italy to adopt measures that fully comply with the legislation. Italy has two months to respond. If Italy fails to correctly transpose the Directive into national law, the Commission may decide to refer Italy back to Court and ask for financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/731)...

16/06/2011: Commission urges Ireland to act swiftly to improve protection of peat bogs

The Commission is asking Ireland to take urgent action to improve the implementation of legislation that protects peat bog habitats. The Commission is concerned that peat extraction is ongoing in numerous protected Natura 2000 sites, despite letters sent out by the Irish authorities. Scientists have warned that up to 35% of certain priority habitats have been destroyed since the legislation was adopted, and that the annual rate of loss is between 1-4%. In addition, the Commission also has concerns over some 170 other protected bogs. Ireland was sent a letter of formal notice about this matter in January 2011. Although recent progress appears to have been made in relation to 32 sites, this needs to be reflected by changes on the ground. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion. The Commission's assessment of the progress on the ground will be crucial in determining the next steps in this procedure.

Read more (IP/11/730)...

16/06/2011: Commission takes Spain to Court over urban waste water and river basin plans

The European Commission is referring Spain to the EU Court of Justice for breaching two pieces of EU environment legislation. In the first case, Spain is failing to ensure that waste water from agglomerations with more than 10,000 inhabitants that discharge into sensitive areas is properly treated. The lack of adequate treatment systems, which should have been in place since 1998, poses risks to human health, to inland waters and the marine environment. Slow progress by Spain has led the Commission, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, to refer the case to the EU Court of Justice. In the second case, Spain has failed to submit its plans for managing river basins to the Commission. These plans, due to be adopted by 22 December 2009 at the latest, are essential for achieving the EU's objective of 'good status' for European waters by 2015. So far only one plan has been adopted in Spain, and the Commission is therefore taking Spain to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/729)...

16/06/2011: Commission asks Spain to improve drinking water in Alicante

The Commission is asking Spain to take action to improve the quality of drinking water in Las Filipinas, an area in San Miguel de Salinas, Alicante, Spain. The Commission is concerned that local residents have suffered from water that is not fit for human consumption for more than a decade. Despite petitions to the European Parliament in 2005 and 2006, and the acknowledgement by the Spanish authorities that the local drinking water was not adequate for human consumption, no tangible action has been taken to solve the problem. Spain was sent a letter of formal notice about the matter in 2009, and despite a number replies, no satisfactory action has been implemented. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion, giving Spain two months to comply. If Spain fails to fulfil its legal obligations, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/728)...

16/06/2011: Commission urges Greece to comply with Court ruling over missing industrial permits

The Commission is asking Greece to comply with a 2010 EU Court of Justice ruling on industrial installations that are operating with expired permits. Although Greece is taking action to remedy the situation, the Commission is concerned with the slow pace of progress. At least 21 industrial installations are still operating with permits that have not yet been reconsidered or updated. Under EU law, this should have been done by 30 October 2007.

Read more (IP/11/727)...

16/06/2011: Germany warned over failure to notify legislation on water quality standards and on a strategy to protect its seas

The Commission is asking Germany to comply with two pieces of EU environmental legislation. Despite earlier warnings, Germany has failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of legislation on water quality standards, which should have been in place by 13 July 2010, and about a strategy to protect its seas, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010.

Read more (IP/11/725)...

16/06/2011: Commission asks five Member States to comply with EU waste framework directive

The European Commission is asking five Member States to comply with the EU Waste Framework Directive. The Member States concerned are Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Greece and Poland. These Member States have failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of this legislation into national law, which should have happened by 12 December 2010. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. The Member States have two months to comply. If they fail to do so, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and ask the Court to impose financial penalties, without having to return to the court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/724)...

14/06/2011: Commission launches search for European Green Capital 2014

Will your city be the next European Green Capital? Today the search to find the city that will inherit the prestigious title in 2014 begins. Four cities – Stockholm, Hamburg, Vitoria-Gasteiz and Nantes – have been awarded the title so far, from 2010 to 2013 respectively. The European Green Capital Award recognizes and rewards cities that are at the forefront of environmentally-friendly urban living and which can act as role-models to inspire other cities. The annual award is intended to help European cities become more attractive and healthy places – "fit for life".

Read more (IP/11/703)...

May 2011


26/05/2011: Major support for continued specific EU funding tool for the environment and climate action

Close to 85.8% of respondents to a recent public consultation on the future of LIFE+, the European Commission's environmental funding tool, consider that there is a need for a specific EU financial instrument for environment and climate action. A majority of 54.6% also think that the budget for the instrument should be increased. In the run-up to the next multiannual financial framework 2014-2020, the results of this consultation will feed into an evaluation of the need for a specific environmental and climate action programme in the EU's budget. The news was released as a conference on LIFE success stories opens in Brussels.

Read more (IP/11/647)...

26/05/2011: Shall we triple resource use by 2050, or improve efficiency and recycling?

Today the European Commission, together with the UN Environment Programme, launched two major reports that call for a radical change in the way we use scarce resources. The first report shows the immense potential for increasing metal recycling rates. Only 18 metals are recycled more than 50%, and the majority do not even attain a 1% recycling rate. The second report, first presented at the UN Sustainable Development Commission on 18 May, underlines the need for a radical decoupling to avoid a global resource crunch by 2050, and provides science-based scenarios on future resource consumption. The two reports, put together by the International Resource Panel, call on legislators and policymakers to find ways to reduce resource use and increase recycling. Their publication at Green Week opens the way for the Commission's upcoming "Roadmap towards a resource efficient Europe".

Read more (IP/11/646)...

26/05/2011: New maps give Europeans close-up picture of air pollution from diffuse sources

The Europe-wide register aims to help Europeans actively engage in decisions affecting the environment. New online maps published today by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency, in close cooperation with the Joint Research Centre, the Commission's in-house science service, allow citizens for the first time to pinpoint the main diffuse sources of air pollution, such as transport and aviation. The new set of 32 maps shows where certain pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter are released. It complements existing data on emissions from individual industrial plants from the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (E-PRTR).

Read more (IP/11/645)...

24/05/2011: Europe's largest annual environment conference explores the spectrum of resource efficiency

Opening today, Green Week 2011 launches a call for citizens to "use less and live better". During the conference's four days, over 3500 participants will look for ways to use our planet's resources more sustainably. This year's Green Week gathers participants from a wide variety of backgrounds, including EU institutions, business and industry, non-governmental organisations, public authorities, the scientific community, academia and the media. Some 30 events are scheduled to take place outside Brussels, including events to come in Slovenia (25-27 May, 2 June) and Poland (11 June). The conference is webstreamed in its entirety.

Read more (IP/11/631)...

23/05/2011: Soil sealing in the EU threatens the availability of ecosystem services

Every year in Europe, soils covering an area larger than the city of Berlin are lost to urban sprawl and transport infrastructure. This unsustainable trend threatens the availability of fertile soils and groundwater reservoirs for future generations. A new report made public today by the European Commission recommends a three-tiered approach focused on limiting the progression of soil sealing, mitigating its effects and compensating valuable soil losses by action in other areas.

Read more (IP/11/624)...

20/05/2011: Chemicals/REACH: EU to ban cadmium in jewellery, brazing sticks and all plastics

Cadmium in jewellery, plastics and brazing sticks will be banned in the EU from December 2011. High levels of the harmful substance cadmium have been found in some jewellery articles, especially in imported imitation jewellery. Consumers including children risked being exposed to cadmium through skin contact or through licking. The new legislation prohibits the use of cadmium in all types of jewellery products, except for antiques. The ban also covers cadmium in all plastics and brazing sticks, which are used to join dissimilar materials as fumes that are released during this process are highly dangerous if inhaled.

Read more (IP/11/620)...

19/05/2011: Commission urges Italy to comply with EU law on urban waste water

The European Commission is asking Italy to ensure proper treatment of waste water from agglomerations with more than 10,000 inhabitants discharged into sensitive areas. The lack of sufficient collection and treatment systems, which should have been in place since 1998, poses risks to human health and to inland waters and the marine environment. Slow progress by Italy has led the Commission, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, to send a reasoned opinion. If Italy fails to comply within two months, the Commission could refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/599)...

19/05/2011: Commission takes France to court over failure to comply with EU air quality rules

The European Commission is taking France to court for failing to comply with EU air quality limit values for airborne particles known as PM10. France has so far failed to effectively tackle excess emissions of these particles in several zones across the country. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has therefore decided to take France to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/596)...

19/05/2011: Commission asks six Member States to comply with EU waste framework directive

The European Commission is asking six Member States to notify the transposition of the EU Waste Framework Directive into national law due by December 2010. The Member States concerned are France, Hungary, Luxembourg, Latvia, Slovenia and Slovakia. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. The Member States have two months to comply. If these Member States fail to comply with their legal obligation, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and ask the Court to impose financial sanctions already at this stage.

Read more (IP/11/595)...

19/05/2011: Commission urges Latvia to comply with EU law on mining waste

The European Commission is asking Latvia to adopt measures to ensure that extractive waste is treated in specific facilities in line with EU requirements. Despite earlier warnings, Latvia is still not complying with EU legislation on mining waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. If Latvia fails to comply within two months, the Commission could refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/594)...

19/05/2011: Commission takes Ireland to Court over missing industrial permits

The Commission is referring Ireland to the EU Court of Justice over industrial installations operating with outdated permits. Under European law, new permits should have been issued by 30 October 2007. However the permits of at least 17 Irish livestock installations have not yet been reconsidered or updated. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/593)...

19/05/2011: Commission takes Ireland back to court over septic tanks and asks for a fine

A year and a half after a previous Court ruling, Ireland has still not adopted the necessary measures to ensure that septic tanks go through adequate checks and inspections in order to protect human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring Ireland back to the EU Court of Justice and asking the Court to impose a lump-sum fine of €2.7 million and a daily penalty payment of € 26,173.

Read more (IP/11/592)...

19/05/2011: Commission takes Czech Republic to Court over failure to update biocides legislation

The European Commission is referring the Czech Republic to the EU Court of Justice over its failure to meet the European requirements on biocidal products. Despite earlier warnings the Czech Republic has not added acrolein, a substance used in certain biocidal products, to its national list of active substances that are covered by biocides legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/591)...

19/05/2011: EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against 27 Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions cover many sectors. They aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken today 320 decisions, including 6 complaints taking Member States before the European Union's Court of Justice. In this package, 1 decision relates to failure to respect a previous Court ruling and might imply financial penalties.

Read more (MEMO/11/312)...

18/05/2011: Commission seeks views on reducing plastic bag use

The European Commission is asking the public how best to reduce the use of plastic carrier bags. It will ask if charging and taxation would be effective, or if other options such as an EU-level ban on plastic carrier bags would be better. Opinions will also be sought on increasing the visibility of biodegradable packaging products, and boosting the biodegradability requirements for packaging. The web-based consultation runs until August 2011.

Read more (IP/11/580)...

09/05/2011: Fight against illegal logging: the European Union and Liberia team up to ensure legal origin of imported wood products to the EU

By early 2014, all shipments of wood products to the European Union from Liberia will be required to carry a license certifying their legal origin. A Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) to that end was signed on 9 May by the EU and Liberia, which contains over half of the remaining rainforest in West Africa. This agreement, made in Monrovia, underpins Liberia's ongoing forestry reforms, driven by the Government's commitment to good governance and to ensuring that natural resources contribute to sustainable development. The agreement also gives European consumers the assurance that wood products imported from Liberia, including furniture and wood chips used for bio-fuel, are of legal origin. The Agreement comes in result of the strong mutual commitment to eradicate illegal logging and to bring more transparency to the timber trade.

Read more (IP/11/548)...

09/05/2011: Update Frequently asked questions on illegal logging

What is the Commission doing to combat illegal timber products to appear on the EU market?
The Commission is actively working with developing countries that produce timber for the EU market to ensure that they have the system and capacity in place to tackle illegal logging. The Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Action Plan is a top priority for the EU. It dates back to 2003. The Regulation was adopted in 2005, and the Commission started the first Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) negotiations in 2006. Negotiations of VPAs take time. They rely on a wide consultation process on sensitive issues, such as land tenure, governance, transparency and accountability. There is now one agreement ratified (with Ghana), three in ratification process (Indonesia (initialled May 4), Central African Republic, Republic of Congo and Cameroon), negotiations on-going (Malaysia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Vietnam and Gabon) and a number of countries have expressed their interest for entering into negotiations.

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03/05/2011: Biodiversity: Commission announces new strategy to halt biodiversity loss within ten years

The Commission today presented a new strategy to protect and improve the state of Europe's biodiversity over the next decade. The strategy includes six targets which address the main drivers of biodiversity loss, and which will reduce the main pressures on nature and ecosystem services in the EU by anchoring biodiversity objectives in key sectoral policies. The global aspects of biodiversity loss are also addressed, ensuring that the EU contributes to combating biodiversity loss around the world. The strategy is in line with the commitments made by the EU in Nagoya, Japan, last year.

Read more (IP/11/526)...

03/05/2011: Q&A on the Communication an EU biodiversity strategy to 2020

Why does biodiversity loss matter?
The degradation and loss of biodiversity has significant environmental, economic and social consequences within the EU and at the global level. There are strong ethical and moral arguments in favour of protecting biodiversity in its own right, independently of its instrumental value to humans. In addition, ecosystems provide a number of services that contribute directly and indirectly to human well-being giving us food, fresh water and clean air, shelter and medicine, mitigating natural disasters, pests and diseases and regulating the climate.

Read more (MEMO/11/268)...

April 2011


15/04/2011: All aboard Hamburg's Train of Ideas

Hamburg, European Green Capital 2011, has taken to the tracks with a rolling exhibition on sustainable living. EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Hamburg's Mayor Olaf Scholz set the wheels in motion for the six-month tour of 18 European cities at the train's launch today. The novel approach to sharing best practice aims to demonstrate to thousands of European citizens how cities can be both attractive and sustainable in the future.

Read more (IP/11/478)...

06/04/2011: Commission takes UK to court over excessive cost of challenging decisions

The European Commission is taking the UK to the EU Court of Justice over the high cost of challenges of decisions on the environment. Under EU law, the possibility of challenging decisions affecting the environment should be fair, equitable, timely and not prohibitively expensive. The Commission is concerned that the potentially high cost of losing legal actions is preventing NGOs and individuals in the UK from bringing cases in the first place. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/439)...

06/04/2011: Commission takes four Member States to court for failing to submit river basin plans

The European Commission is taking Belgium, Denmark, Greece and Portugal to court over their failure to comply with EU water legislation and submit plans for managing their river basins. These plans are essential for achieving the EU's objective of 'good status' for European waters by 2015 and they should have been adopted by 22 December 2009 at the latest. Delayed plans could mean a failure to deliver the water quality required. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring the cases to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/438)...

06/04/2011: Commission urges Hungary to comply with European nature protection legislation

The European Commission has asked Hungary to address the inadequate protection of nature in an area that is home to globally threatened bird species. The Commission has concerns about an aerial power line erected in autumn 2007, which is liable to have a significant negative impact on protected species. No impact assessment was undertaken for the project, contravening EU legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending Hungary a reasoned opinion. If Hungary fails to comply within two months, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/437)...

06/04/2011: Commission asks France and Ireland to protect their seas

The Commission is asking France and Ireland to comply with EU legislation requiring Member States to draw up marine strategies to protect their seas. Neither Member State has informed the Commission about the transposition of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion. If France and Ireland fail to comply with their legal obligation, the Commission may refer the cases to the EU Court of Justice and may ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage.

Read more (IP/11/436)...

06/04/2011: Commission takes Belgium to Court and warns Romania over failure to comply with EU air quality rules

The European Commission is taking Belgium to court for failing to comply with EU air quality limit values for airborne particles known as PM10. Belgium has so far failed to effectively tackle excess emissions of these particles in 8 zones across the country. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has therefore decided to take Belgium to the EU Court of Justice. As Romania is also not complying with the air quality limit values for PM10, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion under ongoing infringement proceedings. Romania has two months to comply. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/435)...

06/04/2011: Commission urges Belgium to comply with EU law on urban waste water

The European Commission is urging Belgium to ensure that waste water from small towns is properly treated. The lack of sufficient collection and treatment systems that should be in place since 2005 poses risks to human health and to the marine environment. Slow progress by Belgium has led the Commission, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, to send a reasoned opinion under ongoing infringement proceedings. If Belgium fails to comply within two months, the Commission could refer the case to the EU Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/434)...

06/04/2011: Commission takes Austria to Court over missing industrial permits

The Commission is referring Austria to the EU Court of Justice over outdated permits for their industrial installations. Under European legislation, new permits should have been issued by 30 October 2007. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the Court. Austria has two months to comply.

Read more (IP/11/433)...

06/04/2011: Commission urges Spain to comply with Court ruling on industrial permits

The Commission is urging Spain to comply with an EU Court of Justice ruling concerning permits for industrial installations. Despite Spain being condemned by the Court in November 2010, more than 100 plants continue to operate without updated permits that comply with EU rules designed to prevent industrial pollution. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending Spain a letter of formal notice requesting the full implementation of the judgement. In the absence of a satisfactory response, Spain could face a second court referral and financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/432)...

06/04/2011: EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

Infringement package: overview of press releases

Read more (MEMO/11/220)...

March 2011


31/03/2011: When is waste no longer waste? When it meets the new end-of-waste criteria designed to develop our recycling markets

Waste generated by European industries and consumers is increasingly being reprocessed into secondary raw materials and new products instead of being buried in landfills. However, in the past there has been a lack of clear criteria determining when a material recovered from waste ceases to be waste and can be dealt with as other products or raw materials. The first end-of-waste Regulation adopted today sets such criteria for iron and steel scrap and for aluminium scrap. It aims to stimulate European recycling markets.

Read more (IP/11/388)...

28/03/2011: EU survey shows many Europeans don't know how much they throw away

Almost 60% of EU citizens do not think their household produces too much waste, according to a Eurobarometer survey published today. This is in stark contrast to statistics that show Europeans throw away on average more than half a tonne of rubbish every year. The survey also reveals a lack of awareness of the amount of food waste generated. Most citizens agreed that better waste collection services were needed and 8 in 10 said environmental aspects of a product, such as whether it was reusable or recyclable, were important factors in purchasing decisions.

Read more (IP/11/369)...

24/03/2011: Commission seeks views on how to reduce pressure on Europe's coastal and marine areas

Coastal and marine areas offer significant opportunities for economic development, leisure and living. They host rich but fragile biodiversity. Transparent planning and management of European waters are needed to balance the interests at play against sustaining the long-term benefit of coastal and marine resources to society. With these objectives in mind, the European Commission has launched a public consultation to explore options for future EU action on Maritime Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The Commission is seeking the views of all interested individuals and organisations. The consultation runs for eight weeks.

Read more (IP/11/353)...

22/03/2011: European companies turn to eco-innovation to tackle rising input costs and scarcity of materials

The competitiveness of European businesses is increasingly vulnerable to growing materials scarcity which causes price volatility. A Eurobarometer survey published today and presented at the 10th European Forum on Eco-innovation in Birmingham, UK, shows that 75% of European businesses have experienced an increase in material costs in the past five years, while 90% expect price increases in the future. To tackle this challenge, small and medium-sized businesses are looking to eco-innovation as their answer. However, many businesses are still not fully aware of the potential effects of natural resource scarcity on their future operations.

Read more (IP/11/337)...

21/03/2011: Water scarcity and droughts a growing challenge to Member States

The European Commission today published a report on Member States' progress in addressing water scarcity and droughts. The balance between water demand and availability has reached a critical level in many areas of Europe, a trend that is expected to become more marked as climate change progresses. In the run up to a major water policy review in 2012, the report presents the water management measures introduced by Member States to tackle water scarcity and droughts and highlights the areas for further action.

Read more (IP/11/335)...

15/03/2011: Almada wins European Mobility Week Award 2010

The Portuguese city of Almada has won the 2010 European Mobility Week Award. Almada was judged by an independent panel of mobility experts to have done the most to promote alternatives to the car, and to highlight the positive impact of other means of transport on public health and the environment during European Mobility Week 2010. Murcia in Spain and the Latvian capital Riga were runners-up. The awards were presented by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at a ceremony in Brussels on 14 March 2011.

Read more (IP/11/318)...

14/03/2011: Commission urges Italy to comply with EU environmental legislation

The European Commission is asking Italy to comply with EU rules to ensure that a rehabilitation project on a former chemicals site in the Liguria region does not pose risks to health or the environment. So far Italy has failed to satisfactorily address the issue. On the recommendation of EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion. Italy has two months to reply. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/307)...

14/03/2011: Commission asks Lithuania to comply with EU legislation on strategic environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging Lithuania to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of plans and programmes on the environment into line with EU rules. The existing legislation on strategic environmental assessments in Lithuania contains a number of shortcomings. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion. Lithuania has two months to comply. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/306)...

14/03/2011: Commission takes France to Court for failing to implement rules on industrial pollution

On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the he European Commission is taking France to the European Court of Justice for failing to comply with EU rules on industrial emissions. Four years after the deadline, France is still failing to ensure that a number of industrial installations meet the requirements of a Directive designed to prevent industrial pollution.

Read more (IP/11/305)...

14/03/2011: Commission asks Czech Republic to update biocides legislation

The European Commission is asking the Czech Republic to update its chemicals legislation and authorise the use of two biocides. Under European legislation, the rodenticide Flocoumafen and the wood preservative Tolylfluanide should be included on Member States' lists of authorised substances. Despite an earlier warning from the Commission, the Czech Republic has not yet added these to its list of active substances which can be used in biocidal products, so on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent. In case the Czech Republic doesn't comply with its legal obligation within two months, the Commission may refer this Member State to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/304)...

14/03/2011: Cyprus warned over failures to notify marine protection legislation

The Commission is asking Cyprus to comply with EU legislation requiring Member States to draw up marine strategies to protect their seas. Cyprus has failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion. If Cyprus does not comply within two months, the Commission may refer it to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/303)...

11/03/2011: Commission grants UK additional time to comply with EU air quality standards in Greater London

The European Commission today granted the United Kingdom a temporary and conditional exemption in the Greater London Urban Area from the EU's air quality standards for airborne particles known as PM10. Under the 2008 EU Air Quality Directive Member States may, under strict conditions and for specific parts of the country, extend the time for meeting the PM10 standards until 11 June 2011. The Commission decision approves the time extension on the condition that the United Kingdom adapts its air quality plan for this zone. The Commission rejected a second request from the UK for additional time to comply with the legislation in Gibraltar on the grounds that it was no longer necessary, as compliance with the limit values has already been reached.

Read more (IP/11/285)...

11/03/2011: Preparation Environment Council, 14 March 2011

The first Environment Council under the Hungarian Presidency will be held on 14 March in Brussels. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli, and Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council will open with an attempt to reach a political agreement on the recast of the WEEE Directive. Ministers will then adopt Council conclusions on the review of the Community Strategy concerning Mercury. This will be followed by an exchange of views relating to the question of GMOs on the basis of a Presidency non-paper and questions, followed by a tour-de table. Views will then be exchanged on environmental aspects of the Common Agricultural Policy towards 2020. The day will also feature an exchange of views on the European Semester, and conclusions will be adopted on the follow-up to the Cancun Conference. Among the AOB points, the Commission will inform delegations about the state of the ETS registry, and Ministers will hear information from Denmark about proposals to ban parabens, information from Austria about plastic bags, and a presentation by the Commission of the Roadmap to a competitive low carbon economy in 2050.

Read more (MEMO/11/158)...

01/03/2011: Environment: EU grants €2 million to overseas biodiversity projects

The European Commission is to give an additional €2 million to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and ecosystem services in its Outermost Regions and Overseas Countries and Territories. Known as BEST, the Voluntary scheme for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas will fund pilot projects in these areas, which are home to exceptional biodiversity, and host more endemic species than the whole of continental Europe combined. The financial support was originally suggested by the European Parliament.

Read more (IP/11/241)...

01/03/2011: Environment: Commission to provide €267 million for new environmental projects

The European Commission has launched its annual call for proposals to be funded under the LIFE+ programme, the European fund for the environment. Proposals are welcome under one of the programme's three components: Nature and Biodiversity, Environment Policy and Governance, and Information and Communication. A total of €267 million is available, in the form of co-funding for grant agreements. The call is open until 15 July 2011.

Read more (IP/11/240)...

February 2011


25/02/2011: Commission launches consultations on Resource Efficiency, Rio+20 Summit and sustainable development

The European Commission has launched two online consultations in the field of environment. The first consultation is on policy options that might encourage a switch to a more efficient use of natural resources in the European economy. A second consultation is on the position to be taken by the EU at the United Nations conference on Sustainable Development to be held in Rio de Janeiro in 2012. A related consultation has also been launched to gather opinions on the European bio-based economy, which also includes aspects of resource efficiency. The consultations run until mid-April 2011.

Read more (IP/11/226)...

23/02/2011: New Strategic Cooperation Agreement between European Commission and UN Environment Programme

Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for the Environment, and Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary General and UNEP Executive Director, have issued a joint statement furthering cooperation between the two organizations.

Read more (MEMO/11/111)...

17/02/2011: Chemicals/REACH: six dangerous substances to be phased out by the EU

Six substances of very high concern will be banned within the next three to five years unless an authorisation has been granted to individual companies for their use. These substances are carcinogenic, toxic for reproduction or persist in the environment and accumulate in living organisms. Operators wishing to sell or use these substances will need to demonstrate that the required safety measures have been taken to adequately control the risks, or that the benefits for the economy and society outweigh the risks. Where feasible alternative substances or techniques exist, a timetable for substitution will also have to be submitted.

Read more (IP/11/196)...

16/02/2011: Commission takes Slovakia to Court for failing to comply with EU landfill legislation

The European Commission is taking Slovakia to the European Court of Justice for failing to comply with EU rules to ensure that landfills do not significantly damage the environment. The case concerns a site near Žilina. On the recommendation of EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/177)...

16/02/2011: Commission asks Slovakia to comply with EU legislation on strategic environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging Slovakia to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of plans and programmes on the environment in line with EU rules. The current legislation on strategic environmental assessments in Slovakia contains a number of shortcomings. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/176)...

16/02/2011: Commission asks Poland to comply with EU water quality legislation

The Commission is asking Poland to comply with EU legislation on environmental quality standards for surface water. Poland has failed to inform the Commission about the full transposition of this legislation into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion. Poland has two months to respond. In case Poland doesn't comply with its legal obligation, the Commission may refer this Member State to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/174)...

16/02/2011: Commission warns Poland over failures to protect its sea

The Commission is asking Poland to comply with EU legislation requiring Member States to draw up marine strategies to protect their seas. Poland has failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. If Poland fails to inform the Commission within two months of the measures taken to transpose the relevant EU legislation, the Commission could refer the case to the European Court of Justice. In case Poland doesn't comply with its legal obligation, the Commission may refer this Member State to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/173)...

16/02/2011: Commission urges Poland and Belgium to implement air quality legislation

Both Poland and Belgium have failed to transpose into national law revised EU rules which aim to reduce pollution to levels that minimise the harmful effects on human health and the environment. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent to Poland, while Belgium is receiving a second reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the cases to the European Court of Justice. In case Poland and Belgium do not comply with their legal obligation, the Commission may refer these Member States to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/172)...

16/02/2011: Commission takes Poland to Court over failure to comply with EU nature protection law

On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the European Commission is taking Poland to the European Court of Justice for its failure to properly implement EU nature protection law. The Commission has concerns about several shortcomings in the transposition of EU law on the conservation of wild birds at national level.

Read more (IP/11/171)...

16/02/2011: Commission asks the Netherlands to comply with Court ruling on environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging the Netherlands to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling in a long-running case concerning the impact of certain projects on the environment. Despite a Court judgment on the case, which dates back to 2006, the Netherlands has failed to take satisfactory action. On the recommendation of EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice. If the Netherlands fails to comply, it could face a second Court referral and financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/170)...

16/02/2011: Commission urges Latvia to comply with EU air quality rules

Latvia has so far failed to effectively tackle excessive emissions of tiny airborne particles known as PM10 which, in high concentrations, can be hazardous for humans. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is therefore being sent. Latvia has two months to take appropriate action. Failure to do so could result in the Commission referring the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/169)...

16/02/2011: Commission seeks fines against Ireland for not adopting legislation to protect countryside heritage

The European Commission is taking Ireland back to the European Court of Justice for failing to implement an earlier ruling concerning developments that may harm the natural and man-made heritage of the countryside. Two years after the judgment, Ireland has still not adopted legislation to address the issue. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring the case back to Court and asking it to impose a lump-sum fine of more than €4000 per day for the period between the first Court ruling and the second Court ruling and a daily penalty payment of more than €33,000 per day for each day after the second Court ruling until the infringement ends.

Read more (IP/11/168)...

16/02/2011: Commission urges Greece to comply with Court ruling over lack of urban waste water treatment

The European Commission is urging Greece to take action to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling to ensure proper urban waste water treatment in nine towns and cities. The lack of treatment systems, which should have been in place in 2000, poses risks to the health of people living there. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a letter of formal notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If Greece fails to comply, the Commission could refer the case back to the Court and ask for financial penalties.

Read more (IP/11/166)...

16/02/2011: Commission urges Austria and the Czech Republic to comply with rules on flood prevention

The European Commission is urging Austria and the Czech Republic to ensure EU environmental legislation is implemented at national level or face being taken to the European Court of Justice, with the possibility of fines. The cases concern legislation in the area of flood prevention. Both Member States have failed to inform the Commission of the transposition of the legislation despite earlier infringement proceedings. On the recommendation of EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a second reasoned opinion. In case Austria and the Czech Republic do not comply with their legal obligation, the Commission may refer these Member States to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.

Read more (IP/11/163)...

16/02/2011: EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against 27 Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions cover many sectors. They aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken today 176 decisions, including 7 complaints taking Member States before the European Union's Court of Justice. In this package, 1 decision relate to failure to respect a previous Court ruling and might imply financial penalties.

Read more (MEMO/11/86)...

January 2011


27/01/2011: EU Regional Policy - key for achieving Union's 2020 sustainable growth goals

The Commission today launches a call to action to those in Member States managing Cohesion funds, urging wider use of the money to finance sustainable growth projects, and offering advice on how to improve the quality of investments. These messages, designed to promote implementation of the Resource Efficiency flagship initiative of the Europe 2020 strategy, adopted yesterday, underline the key role that regional policy can have in ensuring EU targets in this area are met.

Read more (IP/11/99)...

27/01/2011: Commission urges Sweden to respect nature legislation in protecting endangered wolves

The European Commission is asking Sweden to respect EU nature legislation by adequately protecting its wolf population, which is threatened with extinction. The Commission is concerned about several aspects of Swedish wolf policy, and especially about the hunting of wolves when the species is not in favourable conservation status. Therefore, on proposal by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, it has decided to launch a formal infringement procedure by sending a Letter of Formal Notice.

Read more (IP/11/95)...

27/01/2011: Commission asks three Member States to comply with EU water quality legislation

The Commission is asking Belgium, the Czech Republic, and Estonia to comply with EU legislation on environmental quality standards for surface water. These Member States have failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of this legislation into national law. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion. The three Member States have two months to respond.

Read more (Read more (IP/11/94))...

27/01/2011: Commission urges Slovakia to ensure proper disposal of end-of-life vehicles

The European Commission is urging Slovakia to bring its national law in line with EU rules relating to vehicles that have reached the end of their lives. The Commission is concerned about continued shortcomings in Slovakia's transposition of the legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion. Slovakia has two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/93)...

27/01/2011: Commission urges Romania to comply with European nature protection legislation

The European Commission has asked Romania to address the inadequate nature protection in Sulina in the Danube Delta, one of Europe's most important wetland areas. The Commission has concerns about shortcomings in procedures to assess the potential impact of tourism development in the area, which is part of the Natura 2000 network. The Commission's request, on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, takes the form of a reasoned opinion under EU infringement procedures.. If the Romanian authorities fail to inform the Commission within two months of measures taken to ensure compliance with EU law in this respect, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/92)...

27/01/2011: Commission urges Spain to submit river basin management plans

The European Commission is urging Spain to comply with EU water legislation and submit plans for managing its river basins, which are essential for achieving the EU's objective of 'good status' for European waters by 2015. The plans should have been adopted by 22 December 2009 at the latest, and delayed plans could mean a failure to deliver the water quality required. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is therefore being sent. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may refer Spain to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/91)...

27/01/2011: Estonia, Greece, Finland and Malta warned over failures to protect their seas

The Commission is asking Estonia, Greece, Finland and Malta to comply with EU legislation requiring them to draw up marine strategies to protect their seas. These countries have failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010. The Commission's request, sent on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, takes the form of a reasoned opinion under the EU infringement procedures. If the countries concerned fail to inform the Commission within two months of the measures taken to transpose the relevant EU legislation, the Commission could refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/90)...

27/01/2011: Commission takes Greece to Court for failing to protect Lake Koroneia

The European Commission is referring Greece to the European Court of Justice for its failure to protect Lake Koroneia, an internationally important wetland in the region of Thessaloniki. The lake has been seriously affected by pollution and illegal water extraction, with serious consequences for local fauna and flora. Although a comprehensive plan is in place to rehabilitate the lake, with many actions partly financed by EU funds, progress has been slow. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring the case to the Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/89)...

27/01/2011: Commission asks Czech Republic to comply with Court ruling on bathing water quality

The European Commission is urging the Czech Republic to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling on its failure to adopt adequate legislation on bathing water quality. On a proposal by Environment Commissioner Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the Czech Republic fails to respond within two months, a second Court referral and financial penalties could follow.

Read more (IP/11/87)...

27/01/2011: Commission asks Czech Republic to update biocides legislation

The European Commission is asking the Czech Republic to update its chemicals legislation by adding acrolein to the list of active substances covered by their legislation in order to meet European requirements. Despite an earlier warning from the Commission, the Czech Republic has not yet added acrolein to its list of active substances which could possibly be used in biocidal products, so on the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent. The Czech Republic has two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may refer it to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/11/86)...

19/01/2011: EU moving towards 'recycling society' but room for progress remains

The European Commission today published a report on Member States' performance in the prevention and recycling of waste. This shows that some Member States have made excellent progress, but that we are still some way from achieving the long-term goal of becoming a 'recycling society' – one that not only avoids producing waste but also uses it as a resource.

Read more (IP/11/46)...

10/01/2011: Environment: A good day for salmon, otters and beech forests

Europe's flora and fauna are now better protected than at any time in the history of the European Union. Natura 2000, Europe's network of protected natural areas, has been expanded by nearly 27 000 square kilometres. This includes a major addition of marine areas covering more than 17 500 square kilometres which will increase protection for many endangered marine species. Natura 2000 now covers almost 18% of the EU's landmass and more than 130 000 km² of its seas. The main countries involved in this latest expansion are the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Spain and Poland. Natura 2000 is the centrepiece of Europe's battle to halt biodiversity loss and safeguard ecosystem services.

Read more (IP/11/18)...

10/01/2011: More details on the new additions to the Community Natura 2000 lists

The latest update of the Natura 2000 lists concerns fifteen Member States: Austria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the UK. The number of "Sites of Community Importance" has increased to a total of 739, expanding the network by nearly 27 000 km².

Read more (MEMO/11/9)...

04/01/2011: Chemicals: More than three million classification and labelling notifications improve information on hazardous chemicals

More than three million notifications on the classification of chemical substances in line with new EU rules have been received by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). All companies manufacturing or importing hazardous substances were required to classify them by 1 December 2010 and notify ECHA by 3 January 2011. Classification is essential to determine whether a chemical is dangerous for health and the environment, and will determine the information on the labels of chemicals that workers and consumers use. The new rules are laid down in the EU Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of chemicals (CLP) which aligns the EU classification system to the UN Globally Harmonised System, ensuring that the same hazards are described and labelled in the same way all around the world. The data will enable ECHA to establish the first European inventory of hazardous substances and harmonised classifications.

Read more (IP/11/2)...

December 2010


21/12/2010: Commission strengthens legislation on safety at European chemical plants

The European Commission today presented draft legislation to strengthen rules on the control of major accident hazards involving chemicals. The revision of the so-called Seveso II Directive will align the legislation to changes in EU chemicals law and will clarify and update other provisions. This includes introducing stricter inspection standards and improving the level and quality of information available to the public in the event of an accident. The new Directive should apply from 1 June 2015.

Read more (IP/10/1758)...

17/12/2010: Environment Council, 20 December 2010

The final Environment Council under the Belgian Presidency will be held on 20 December in Brussels. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli, and Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. The Council will open with a progress report on CO2 emissions from light commercial vehicles, followed by an attempt to reach a political agreement on the Biocides Directive. A progress report on the recast of the WEEE Directive will then be presented by the Presidency. Ministers will then adopt conclusions on the outcome of CBD COP 10, the Nagoya biodiversity conference, sustainable materials management and resource efficiency, and better instruments for environmental governance. Views will be exchanged on the outcome of the COP 16 climate change negotiations in Cancun, and on GMOs. Hungary will then present the environmental priorities to be pursued during its term as holder of the Presidency. During lunch, the Director of the European Environment Agency will present the latest 5-yearlyState of the Environment Report.

Read more (MEMO/10/692)...

16/12/2010: Commission biodiversity campaign wins international award

The European Commission's campaign to highlight awareness of biodiversity loss has won a prestigious award in the field of communication, a "European Excellence Award." These awards – which are chosen by an independent jury of 30 leading communications professionals – are intended to honour outstanding achievements by communications professionals. The award is in the Environment and Ecology category. The campaign, which centres round a viral film and the slogan "weareallinthistogether", has reached millions of Europeans around the continent, and will continue until next year.

Read more (IP/10/1730)...

03/12/2010: Environment: New rules on illegal timber come into force across EU

New rules to prevent illegal timber being sold on the European market have come into force across the EU. The legislation will strengthen efforts to halt illegal logging which causes serious environmental damage and biodiversity loss and undermines the efforts of those trying to manage forests responsibly. The Regulation, which was first proposed by the Commission in 2008, was adopted by the EU last month and will apply in all Member States from March 2013.

Read more (IP/10/1656)...

01/12/2010: First REACH registration closes: a step nearer to safer use of chemicals in the EU

Today marks a major step towards the safe management and use of chemicals throughout Europe. A large proportion of the total volume of chemicals produced and used in the EU, as well as the most dangerous chemicals, have now been registered at the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The 30 November deadline for registration of widely-used chemicals was set by REACH, the Regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. As a result of REACH, European industry will possess more in-depth knowledge of the potentially hazardous effects of the chemicals they are dealing with. This will lead to safer use of chemicals, increased industrial competitiveness and a cleaner environment. Under the REACH system companies cannot place a chemical substance they manufacture or import on the EU market unless it has been registered with ECHA within the applicable deadline.

Read more (IP/10/1632)...

01/12/2010: REACH system for safer use of chemicals – frequently asked questions

What is REACH?
REACH, which stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, is a system for ensuring the safe use of chemicals within the EU. The system was set up by EU legislation which came into force on 1 June 2007, creating a single regulatory system for dealing with new and existing chemical substances. REACH seeks to close the knowledge gap that previously existed concerning the risks associated with particular chemicals and to encourage the progressive replacement of dangerous chemicals with safer ones by means of its authorisation system. REACH places greater responsibility on industry to manage the risk of chemicals and provide appropriate safety information to professional users and, as far as the most hazardous substances are concerned, also to consumers.

Read more (MEMO/10/631)...

November 2010

26/11/2010: Commission announces winners of environmental management awards

Six organisations have won the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) Awards for excellence in environmental management. The winners were announced at an awards ceremony in Brussels last night. The Commission's annual environmental awards have been handed to private companies and public organisations for outstanding environmental achievements since 2000. The 2010 awards focused on resource-efficiency, taking into account water and energy consumption, waste generation and carbon emissions. This year, a record 42 organisations from 15 European countries were nominated. The six winners were selected by a jury of six experts in the field of environmental management and resource efficiency.

Read more (IP/10/1611)

24/11/2010: EU set to revise law on hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment

The European Commission welcomes today's vote by the European Parliament to revise legislation on the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The draft legislation, proposed by the Commission in 2008, will strengthen the existing law by streamlining procedures for future substance restrictions and by making it coherent with other chemicals legislation1. Today's vote confirms the first reading agreement with the Council on the revised legislation.

Read more (IP/10/1596)

24/11/2010: Commission asks Czech Republic to comply with Court ruling on environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is urging the Czech Republic to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling on public involvement in environmental impact assessments. On a proposal by Commissioner Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the Czech Republic fails to respond within two months, they could face a second Court referral and financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1587)

24/11/2010: Air Quality: Cyprus, Italy, Portugal and Spain taken to Court over failure to comply with EU rules

The European Commission is urging Cyprus, Italy, Portugal and Spain to comply with EU air quality limit values for airborne particles known as PM10. These Member States have so far failed to effectively tackle excess emissions of PM10. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has therefore decided to take Cyprus, Italy, Portugal and Spain to Court.

Read more (IP/10/1586)

24/11/2010: Poland in Court over failure to comply with EU directive on nature protection

The European Commission is taking Poland to the European Court of Justice for its insufficient transposition of nature protection legislation. The Commission has particular concerns about the provisions in Poland's national legislation for derogations from the strict protection offered by the Habitats Directive. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the case is referred to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1584)

24/11/2010: Commission urges Italy to comply with Court judgement on waste water treatment

The European Commission is urging Italy to comply with a ruling by the European Court of Justice about waste water treatment. In November 2006, the Court ruled that Italy must take action to protect the River Olona basin in North Italy by treating all urban waste water entering the area. Four years after the ruling, Italy is still not complying with the requirement. Therefore, the Commission is sending a letter of formal notice on a recommendation by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik. Italy has two months to respond. A failure to act could lead to financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1583)

24/11/2010: Commission asks Ireland to comply with Court ruling on septic tanks

The European Commission is urging Ireland to comply with a 2009 European Court of Justice ruling on septic tanks. The Commission is concerned that a year after the Court ruling, no legal measures have been adopted to ensure that septic tanks are subject to adequate checks and inspections to protect human health and the environment. On a recommendation by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a letter of formal notice under ongoing infringement proceedings is therefore sent. If Ireland fails to act, the Commission could refer the case back to the Court and request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1582)

24/11/2010: Commission closes case on access to justice against Ireland

Following action by the Irish authorities, the Commission, on a recommendation by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, is closing a non-communication case on absence of certain access to justice rules.

Read more (IP/10/1581)

24/11/2010: Commission asks Portugal to comply with Court ruling on industrial accidents

The European Commission is asking Portugal to comply with a ruling by the European Court of Justice on emergency planning for major industrial accidents. In September 2009, the Court found that Portugal was failing to implement the Seveso Directive, legislation that obliges Member States to draw up emergency plans to cover major accidents involving dangerous substances. More than a year after the Court ruling, the Commission has still not been notified about plans for 50 installations. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore issuing a Letter of Formal Notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the necessary actions are not taken by the Portuguese authorities, the Commission may decide to take Portugal back to Court to request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1580)

24/11/2010: Industrial emissions: Commission urges Estonia and Ireland to comply with EU legislation

The European Commission is taking Estonia to the European Court of Justice for its incomplete transposition of a law designed to prevent industrial pollution. Ireland is also being urged to comply with the same piece of legislation, as a number of its agricultural installations still do not meet the requirements of the Directive. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring Estonia to the Court and sending Ireland a reasoned opinion. Both Member States have two months to respond.

Read more (IP/10/1579)

24/11/2010: Air quality: Commission urges nine Member States to implement revised legislation

The European Commission is urging nine Member States to comply with EU environmental legislation in the area of air quality. The Member States concerned are: the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Luxembourg, Romania, Slovenia and Spain. These Member States have failed to communicate the transposition of this legislation at national level to the Commission. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is therefore being sent. Failing this, the Commission may refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1577)

24/11/2010: Commission urges Luxembourg to implement Court ruling on water pollution

The European Commission is urging Luxembourg to implement a Court ruling and comply with measures to combat water pollution caused by nitrates. Luxembourg was condemned by the European Court of Justice in June this year for its failure to adopt action plans for zones vulnerable to nitrate pollution, as required by EU law. Despite the judgement, Luxembourg still does not fully comply with the legislation and has not indicated how it intends to implement the ruling. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a letter of formal notice is therefore being sent. Luxembourg has two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may decide to refer the case back to the European Court of Justice and propose financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1574)

24/11/2010: Commission asks four Member States to implement EU chemicals legislation

The European Commission is asking Germany, Finland, Poland and Portugal to update their chemicals laws in line with recent changes in legislation agreed at EU level. These Member States did not communicate measures relating to the Directive on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures. Poland has also failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of legislation on biocides. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent by the Commission. The four Member States have two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may refer them to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1573)

24/11/2010: Commission asks Denmark to comply with EU water legislation

The European Commission is asking Denmark to address a number of issues of non-conformity between national and EU water legislation. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is therefore being sent. Denmark has two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1571)

24/11/2010: Poland faces Court over failure to notify flooding legislation

The Commission is referring Poland to the European Court of Justice for failing to comply with EU environmental legislation in the area of flood prevention. Poland has not notified the Commission that the legislation has been adopted, despite a reasoned opinion issued in July this year under ongoing infringement proceedings. The legislation should have been in place by November 2009. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has therefore decided to refer the case to the Court.

Read more (IP/10/1568)

24/11/2010: Estonia and Poland face Court for failing to put EU law on their statute books

The European Commission is referring Estonia and Poland to the European Court of Justice for failing to bring EU environmental legislation into force. These Member States have not yet adopted legislation on spatial data infrastructure at national level, despite reasoned opinions issued to both countries under ongoing infringement proceedings. The legislation was due by 15 May 2009. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has therefore decided to refer the cases to the Court.

Read more (IP/10/1566)

24/11/2010: Commission asks Belgium and Portugal to comply with EU legislation on strategic environmental assessments

The European Commission is urging Belgium and Portugal to adopt measures to implement EU legislation on assessing the effects of plans and programmes on the environment. The existing legislation on strategic environmental assessments in Belgium and Portugal contains a number of shortcomings. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore sending both countries a reasoned opinion. The Member States have two months to comply. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1564)

08/11/2010: EU adopts stricter rules on industrial emissions

New EU legislation adopted today will bring down industrial emissions from large combustion plants across the EU, bringing several environmental and health benefits to Europe's citizens, like an expected reduction in premature deaths of 13,000 per year. The stricter legislation on industrial emissions was proposed by the European Commission in December 2007. The new rules will also lead to significant savings through the reduction of administrative burden and provide a more level playing field for industry.

Read more (IP/10/1477)

October 2010

29/10/2010: Joint statement by Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for Environment and Joke Schauvliege, EU President of the Environment Council on the outcome of the COP10 Conference on Biological Diversity in Nagoya, Japan

The European Union warmly welcomes the agreement here in Nagoya on a global strategy to combat biodiversity loss, the mobilization of the necessary resources to implement it and the creation of a Protocol on Access to and Benefit Sharing of genetic resources. The world needs it and failure here was not an option.

Read more (MEMO/10/538)

29/10/2010: Guidelines to reconcile wind energy development and biodiversity policy

While in general terms wind energy does not represent a threat to wildlife, poorly sited or designed wind farms can have a negative impact on vulnerable species and habitats. That's why the European Commission has published today guidelines for wind energy development in protected natural areas. The guidelines apply to the Natura 2000 network, a cornerstone of EU biodiversity policy and a key tool to achieve the EU target of halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2020. Wind energy has an important role to play in meeting the EU target of 20% renewable energy in Europe's total energy consumption by 2020, and its deployment in Natura 2000 areas is not automatically excluded. But such developments need to be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Read more (IP/10/1450)

28/10/2010: France taken to Court and Luxembourg given warning over failure to notify flooding legislation

The Commission is asking France and Luxembourg to comply with EU environmental legislation in the area of flood prevention. Both Member States have failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of this legislation, which should have been in place by November 2009. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission has decided to take France to Court over its failure to transpose the legislation and to send a reasoned opinion to Luxembourg to which it will have two months to respond.

Read more (IP/10/1423)

28/10/2010: Commission asks Spain to comply with Court ruling on industrial accidents

The European Commission is asking Spain to comply with a ruling by the European Court of Justice on emergency planning for major industrial accidents. In March of this year, the Court found that Spain was failing to implement the Seveso Directive, legislation that obliges Member States to draw up emergency plans to cover major accidents involving dangerous substances. The Commission is concerned that six months after the Court ruling, no such plans exist for 24 potentially dangerous industrial installations. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, it has therefore decided to issue a Letter of Formal Notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the necessary actions are not taken by the Spanish authorities, the Commission may decide to take Spain back to Court to request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1421)

28/10/2010: Commission urges France and Hungary to comply with EU air quality rules

The European Commission is urging France and Hungary to comply with EU air quality standards. These Member States have so far failed to effectively tackle excess emissions of tiny airborne particles known as PM10. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is therefore being sent. France and Hungary have two months to take appropriate action. Failure to do so could result in the Commission referring them to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1420)

28/10/2010: Commission urges Greece to comply with Court ruling on illegal landfills

The European Commission is urging Greece to implement a European Court of Justice ruling concerning illegal landfills. Despite being condemned by the Court in 2005 for not taking enough measures to close down and rehabilitate all existing illegal landfills, several hundred continue to operate across the country. At the recommendation of Janez Potočnik, Commissioner for Environment, the Commission has decided to issue a complementary letter of formal notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the appropriate action is not taken by the Greek authorities, the Commission may decide to refer the case back to Court and request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1417)

28/10/2010: Commission is taking Malta to Court for failing to implement EU laws to limit noise impacts

The European Commission is referring Malta to the European Court of Justice for failing to bring EU environmental legislation into force. Under EU law, strategic noise maps had to be drawn up by June 2007. Malta does not yet have ambient noise maps at a national level, despite several letters from the Commission issued under ongoing infringement proceedings. At the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is referring the case to the Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1416)

28/10/2010: Commission asks four Member States to implement EU chemicals legislation

The European Commission is asking France, Italy, Luxembourg and Slovenia to update their chemicals legislation to comply with the Directive on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures. These Member States have either not adopted all the measures necessary to implement this law at national level or have not yet officially informed the Commission that they are in place. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent by the Commission. The four Member States have two months to comply with the request. Failing this, the Commission may refer them to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1415)

28/10/2010: Commission urges Belgium to adopt measures to implement air quality legislation

The European Commission is urging Belgium to adopt the measures necessary to bring new EU air quality legislation into force across the whole country. To date the legislation has only been transposed in one of the three regions. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, a reasoned opinion is being sent by the Commission. Failing this, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1414)

28/10/2010: Commission urges seven Member States to submit river basin plans

The European Commission is urging seven Member States to comply with EU water legislation and submit their plans for managing Europe's river basins. The Member States concerned are Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Malta, Portugal and Slovenia. The river basin management plans should have been adopted by 22 December 2009 at the latest. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, reasoned opinions are therefore being sent. In the absence of satisfactory responses from the Member States concerned within two months, the Commission may refer them to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1413)

28/10/2010: Commission takes Sweden to Court over missing industrial permits

The Commission is referring Sweden to the European Court of Justice over industrial installations that are operating with permits that are now out of date. The permits of at least 26 installations have not yet been reconsidered or updated. Under European law, the permits should have been issued by 30 October 2007. Permits are only issued if a number of environmental criteria are met. Although progress is being made, the Commission is concerned at its slow pace. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is therefore referring Sweden to the Court.

Read more (IP/10/1412)

28/10/2010: Commission asks Slovakia to comply with EU waste legislation on electrical and electronic equipment

The European Commission is urging Slovakia to adopt measures to implement EU standards on waste of electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The existing Slovakian legislation contains a number of shortcomings, especially as regards facilities for collecting such waste. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is now sending a reasoned opinion. Slovakia has two months to comply. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1411)

28/10/2010: Commission requests Malta to comply with Court ruling on bird hunting

The European Commission is asking Malta to comply with a ruling by the European Court of Justice in the area of hunting birds. In 2009, the Court found that Malta, by permitting the spring hunting of turtle doves and quails in 2004-2007, had failed to implement the Birds Directive properly. The Commission is concerned that new framework legislation seeking to permit spring hunting in future years does not comply with the Court ruling. It has therefore decided, at the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, to issue a Letter of Formal Notice under ongoing infringement proceedings. If the necessary actions are not taken by the Maltese authorities, the Commission may decide to take Malta back to Court to request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1409)

28/10/2010: Italy faces Court for failing to implement EU law on waste

The European Commission is referring Italy to the European Court of Justice for failing to implement a Court ruling from 2004 concerning landfills near Milan. The landfills in question are known to contain some hazardous waste, and are a threat to local water and air. Six years after the Court ruling, one landfill has been removed, but two others concerned by the ruling have not yet been cleaned up. On the recommendation of Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, the Commission is taking Italy back to Court and asking for fines to be imposed.

Read more (IP/10/1402)

22/10/2010: Vitoria-Gasteiz and Nantes to be next European Green Capitals

Spanish regional capital Vitoria-Gasteiz and the French city of Nantes have been named as winners of the European Green Capital award for 2012 and 2013. The European Commission's award scheme encourages cities to improve the quality of urban life by systematically taking the environment into account in urban planning. The awards were presented by EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at a ceremony last night in Stockholm, European Green Capital for 2010.

Read more (IP/10/1366)

8/10/2010: Biodiversity: Assessment confirms EU has missed 2010 target, but important lessons learned

A report published today confirms that the EU has missed its target of halting the loss of biodiversity by 2010. The assessment of implementing the Commission's Biodiversity Action Plan shows that Europe's biodiversity remains under severe threat from the excessive demands we are making on our environment, such as changes in land use, pollution, invasive species and climate change. Nevertheless, the assessment reveals that significant progress has been made over the last two years. Important lessons learned from implementing the action plan will underpin the EU's post-2010 strategy.

Read more (IP/10/1303)

4/10/2010: New guidelines to reconcile mining and biodiversity policy

The European Commission has today published new guidelines to clarify rules for extractive industries in protected natural areas. As demand for precious raw materials grows, access to land available for mineral extraction in the EU is becoming ever more important. Some minerals are found on land within Natura 2000, the EU's network of protected natural areas, and the new guidelines explain the procedures to be followed in such cases. The economic implications are high. The industry in question has a turnover of around €49 billion and provides employment for more than a quarter of a million citizens. Natura 2000 is a crucial tool in the fight against biodiversity loss, and it does not exclude human activities. On the contrary it is a flexible scheme that allows mining and quarrying provided they are sustainable in all respects, and are carried out without compromising the integrity of the network.

Read more (IP/10/1283)

September 2010

Environment: Commission asks Belgium to comply with EU water legislation

The European Commission is sending a request to Belgium to address a significant number of issues of non-conformity between national and EU water legislation. Belgium has two months to comply with the reasoned opinion. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1263)

Environment: Commission requests Austria and the Czech Republic to comply with rules on flood prevention

The European Commission requests Austria and the Czech Republic to comply with EU environmental legislation in the area of flood prevention and risk management. The Czech Republic has failed to inform the Commission about the implementation of this legislation, which was due by November 2009. Austria has sent partial information to the Commission, but there are still significant gaps. Both countries have two months to inform the Commission of measures taken to comply with the request for information. In the absence of a satisfactory response to the reasoned opinion, the Commission may refer them to the Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1264)

Environment: Commission asks Spain to comply with EU water legislation against nitrate pollution

The European Commission is asking Spain to correctly apply EU legislation aimed at protecting water against nitrate pollution. Spain has two months to comply with the reasoned opinion, failing which the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1225)

Environment: Commission asks Romania to comply with bird protection rules

The European Commission is asking Romania to ensure that its bird protection legislation is fully compliant with EU law. The Commission is concerned that the hunting periods designated under Romanian law coincide with periods of special protection. Romania has two months to comply with the reasoned opinion, failing which the Commission may refer Romania to the EU's Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1231)

Environment: Commission requests Italy to comply with Court ruling on Waste Management Plans

The European Commission asks Italy to comply with a ruling by the European Court of Justice in the area of waste disposal. The Court ruled in 2007 that Waste Management Plans required under the Waste Framework Directive and the Hazardous Waste Directive had either not been adopted, or the existing plans were not compliant with the Directives, in certain Italian Regions and Provinces. The necessary plans were then adopted for Friuli Venezia Giulia, Puglia, Bolzano and Rimini. However, the existing planning framework in Lazio is not yet in line with EU legislation. The Commission has therefore decided to issue a Letter of Formal Notice under Article 260 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. If the necessary actions were not taken by Italian authorities, the Commission may decide take Italy back to Court and to request financial penalties.

Read more (IP/10/1232)

Environment: Austria and Sweden face Court for failing to implement EU laws on spatial data

The European Commission is referring Austria and Sweden to the European Court of Justice for failing to bring EU environmental legislation into force. The two Member States have not yet adopted legislation on spatial data infrastructure at national level despite reasoned opinions issued to both countries under ongoing infringement proceedings.

Read more (IP/10/1241)

Environment: Commission asks Italy to comply with rules on prevention of industrial accidents

The Commission is asking Italy to correctly apply the requirements of EU legislation on major industrial hazards. The case refers to the failure of authorities in the Province of Trieste to provide sufficient information to the public on safety measures and required behaviour in the event of an accident. Italy has two months to respond to the reasoned opinion under EU infringement procedures, failing which the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1248)

Environment: Commission asks Ireland to comply with court ruling on waste, welcomes closure of two other cases

The European Commission is asking Ireland to comply with a ruling by the EU's Court of Justice regarding waste disposal. While good progress has been made in some instances, more action is needed in areas such as construction waste and end-of-life vehicles. If the necessary actions were not taken, the Commission may take Ireland back to Court and request financial penalties. The Commission welcomed measures taken by Ireland to comply with a Court ruling on the protection of certain vulnerable areas and Natura 2000 sites, as well as environmental impact assessments, and has closed infringement cases on both topics.

Read more (IP/10/1257)

Industrial emissions: Commission asks Greece to comply with EU legislation

The Commission is asking Greece to comply with the requirements of EU legislation on industrial emissions. This follows Greece's failure to regularly inform the Commission about the implementation of the Directive. Greece has two months to respond to the reasoned opinion, failing which the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1259)

Chemicals: Commission asks three Member States to adopt measures to implement EU legislation

The European Commission is asking Belgium, the Czech Republic and Greece to implement EU law on chemicals at national level. These Member States did not communicate measures relating to the Directive on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures. The three Member States have two months to comply with the reasoned opinion under EU infringement procedures. Failing this, the Commission may refer them to the European Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/1261)

Statement by Commissioner Potočnik on the Ministerial meeting of the Convention for the protection of the marine environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR)

"I welcome the decision by OSPAR ministers to protect remote parts of the Atlantic Ocean through the establishment of the world's first high seas network of Marine Protected Areas beyond national jurisdiction. Now the protected areas cover 433 000 km². I hope this breakthrough will have a positive influence on the global negotiations in Nagoya next month on the issue of the protection of marine biodiversity.

Read more (MEMO/10/449)

New atlas highlights the value of Europe's soil biodiversity and reveals how it is under threat

The European Commission's own research body, the Joint Research Centre, publishes today, for the first time, an indicator-based map of potential threats to soil biodiversity, in order to guide decision-makers in protecting this crucial resource. The biodiversity within our soils plays a vital role in agriculture and in the water and carbon cycle. The atlas highlights areas within Europe where soil biodiversity is most at risk of decline relative to the current situation – notably parts of the UK, the Benelux countries and Northern France, although there are areas of high risk also in several other Member States. It provides a comprehensive source of information for researchers, policy makers and teachers. It will be launched at the conference 'Soil, Climate Change and Biodiversity – Where do we stand?' (Brussels, 23 & 24 September 2010).

Read more (IP/10/1165)

Statement of Commissioner Potočnik following the High-Level Meeting of the UN General Assembly celebrating the International Year of Biodiversity

Next month in Nagoya we are due to adopt a new global strategic plan of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. A plan that needs to ensure that we avoid dangerous levels of biodiversity loss and which will ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the goods and services that nature provides. Today's meeting was a step in the right direction towards that goal.

Read more (MEMO/10/437)

Environment: Retailers deliver on green promises

Shoppers in Europe are finding more green products on the shelves thanks to promises made by European retailers to promote more environmentally sustainable consumption patterns. A report monitoring the achievements of voluntary targets set by members of the European Retail Forum – a European Commission and Retail sector initiative – shows retailers are delivering on their commitments. As well as putting more sustainable products on supermarket shelves, retailers have also made progress in reducing their environmental footprint, paying particular attention to resource efficiency measures. Communicating with consumers on sustainability issues, however, is considered an area for improvement. The report recommends setting up an award scheme to reward best practice.

Read more (IP/10/1157)

Statement of Commissioner Potočnik following the European Parliament vote on the Proposal for a Regulation on biocides

"I welcome the European Parliament's positive vote on the proposed Biocides Regulation. I am glad to see that the objectives which drove the Commission's proposal in June 2009 remain at the forefront. The Parliament has voted in support of rules which provide the right balance between ensuring that biocidal products are safe for people and the environment, whilst simplifying procedures related to their authorisation. I support in principle the opening up of the Union authorisation to a wider group of biocidal products, but we must be realistic about whether the system can deal with so many products coming within its scope, and doing so at the same time. An appropriate and workable mechanism for progressive opening up of the system has to be put in place."

Read more (MEMO/10/435)

European Mobility Week 2010: 'Travel Smarter, Live Better'

From 16 to 22 September 2010, hundreds of towns and cities across Europe and beyond will take part in European Mobility Week, the biggest global event dedicated to sustainable urban travel. The 2010 campaign theme – Travel Smarter, Live Better – recognises the detrimental effects that current urban transport trends have on citizens' health. The aim is to encourage local authorities to promote alternatives to the car and highlight their positive impact on public health and the environment.

Read more (IP/10/1131)

30 November 2010: Last call for companies to register chemicals

The Commission reminds companies that they must register the most widely used or most dangerous chemicals by the deadline of 30 November this year, less than 12 weeks from now. Registration is one of the milestones of REACH, the EU Regulation on chemicals and their safe use Companies are also reminded that they must notify the Classification and Labelling of their chemicals to European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) by 3 January next year.

Read more (IP/10/1113)

Commissioner Potocnik welcomes the ratification of the Mediterranean Coastal Zone Protocol

Statement by Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik following the adoption of the Council decision to ratify the Protocol on Integrated Coastal Zone Management in the Mediterranean.

Read more (MEMO/10/406) - Read more about ICZM

The chemicals deadlines: REACH registration (30 November 2010) CLP notification (1 January 2011)

Registration is one of the key elements of REACH, which places the responsibility on industry to manage the risks that chemicals can pose to the human health and the environment. Companies must document how to control such risks by sending a registration dossier to the European Chemicals Agency, ECHA.

Read more (MEMO/10/400)

Biodiversity: Powering up local authorities around the globe

How can local authorities save money while boosting economies, enhancing quality of life and generating employment? By factoring ecosystem services into policy-making, according to a new report. The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) for Local and Regional Policy Makers report shows local policy makers how to improve their understanding of the value and services provided by natural capital like woodlands, parks and waterways, and to reap benefits in local policy areas such as urban management, spatial planning and protected areas management.

Read more (IP/10/1107)

Questions and answers on the new directive for the protection of animals used for scientific purposes

Questions and answers on the new directive for the protection of animals used for scientific purposes

Read more (MEMO/10/398)

EU revises laws to better protect animals used in scientific experiments

Questions and answers on the new directive for the protection of animals used for scientific purposes

Read more (MEMO/10/398)

Biodiversity: Commission seeks views on future options for EU biodiversity policy

The European Commission has launched a web-based consultation to gather input from a wide range of stakeholders on policy options for the European Union's post-2010 EU biodiversity strategy. Opinions are sought from citizens, stakeholders, public administrations, business and civil society on issues including the shortcomings of the existing biodiversity policy, the new approach that the Commission is proposing, farming and biodiversity, the economics of biodiversity, and biodiversity governance inside and outside the EU. The results will feed into the new strategy which is under development. The consultation runs until 22 October 2010.

Read more (IP/10/1096)

Europe's seas: Commission sets out criteria for good environmental status

The European Commission today adopted a decision outlining the criteria necessary to achieve good environmental status for Europe's seas. This will help Member States to develop coordinated marine strategies within each regional sea, ensuring consistency and allowing progress to be compared between regions. The definition of the criteria is a requirement under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive which aims to achieve good environmental status in all EU marine waters by 2020.

Read more (IP/10/1084)

August 2010

Environment: Policy Review shows need to address the challenge of resource efficiency

Today the 2009 Environment Policy Review was published. It reports on EU policy developments from last year and looks in detail at EU and Member States' environmental trends and policy performance.

Read more (IP/10/1047)

July 2010

Commission to provide €250 million for more than 200 new LIFE+ projects

The European Commission has approved funding for 210 new projects under the third call for the LIFE+ programme (2007-2013), the European fund for the environment. The projects are from across the EU and cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, environmental policy, and information and communication. Overall, they represent a total investment of €515 million, of which the EU will provide €249.8 million.

Read more (IP/10/1002)

Environment: Commission requests Poland to comply with rules on flood prevention

The European Commission has decided to ask Poland to comply with EU environmental legislation in the area of flood prevention and risk management. Poland has failed to inform the Commission about the implementation of this legislation, which was due by November 2009. Poland has two months to inform the Commission of measures taken to comply with the request for information, which takes the form of a 'reasoned opinion' under EU infringement procedures. In the absence of a satisfactory response the Commission may refer Poland to the Court of Justice.

Read more (IP/10/940)

Biodiversity: new report highlights win-win business practices that do more for the planet

A new report funded by the European Commission makes a strong case for integrating biodiversity into private sector business plans and core activities around the globe. The report reveals considerable recent growth in eco-certified products and services, growing consumer concerns for sustainable production, and shows how biodiversity can provide a substantial business opportunity in a market that could be worth US$ 2-6 trillion by 2050. It makes seven key recommendations for businesses, and calls on accounting professions and financial reporting bodies to develop common standards to assess biodiversity impacts, and develop new tools for this purpose. "TEEB for Business" will form part of the TEEB synthesis report to be launched at a meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Nagoya, Japan in October 2010

Read more (IP/10/933)

Informal Environment Council in Gent on the 13th of July 2010

Joint Statement of Joke Schauvliege, Flemish Minister for Environment, Nature and Culture, Chair of the Environment Council, and Connie Hedegaard, European Commissioner for Climate Action

Read more (MEMO/10/328)

Statement by Janez Potočnik welcoming the Parliament's vote on the Commission proposal for a new Directive on industrial emissions

"This is a significant step forward in industrial pollution control. The Parliament has voted for a system that is clearer, more effective and more efficient than the present legislative framework. It will have a major impact in reducing premature deaths and environmental problems linked to air quality, and it will stimulate eco-innovation. The vote should seal a deal that will improve environmental protection and the enforceability of current legislation. This is something that the Commission has aimed for since the original proposal in 2007, and I am happy to see that these goals have been maintained"

Read more (MEMO/10/306)

Statement by Janez Potočnik following the European Parliament vote on the Proposal for a Regulation to ban illegal timber

"I welcome the European Parliament's positive vote today on the European Commission proposal for a draft Regulation on illegal timber. Illegal logging often causes serious environmental damage and undermines the efforts of those who are trying to manage forests responsibly. That is why the Commission proposed to regulate timber imports, with the aim to prevent the sale of illegal timber, or products made with such timber, on the EU market.

Read more (MEMO/10/305)

Environment: Commission asks for views on revamping environmental impact assessments

The European Commission has launched a wide public consultation in relation to the review of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) legislation. The consultation covers issues, such as the screening of projects for EIA, the quality of the EIA process, the harmonisation of assessment requirements among Member States, cross-border difficulties when projects affect more than one Member State, the role of the environmental authorities, and development of synergies with other EU policies, such as climate change and biodiversity. The findings of the consultation will feed into a Commission review next year. All interested parties – citizens, stakeholders and organisations involved in environmental assessments – are invited to respond to the public consultation by 24 September 2010. The questionnaire is available in all 22 Community languages.

Read more (IP/10/901)

June 2010

Commission proposal on marketing of wild types of grass seeds boosts efforts to protect the EU's biodiversity

Efforts to conserve the natural environment and protect biodiversity in the EU received a boost, last Friday, after the Member States endorsed a Commission proposal providing for the placing on the market of certain types of wild plant seeds from conserved habitats. In particular, the proposal –adopted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry– relaxes stringent rules to allow the marketing of wild types of plant seeds, known as "preservation seed mixtures."

Read more (IP/10/846)

EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against 27 Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions cover many sectors. They aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken 330 decisions, including 45 complaints taking Member States before the EU's Court of Justice, and 4 decisions related to failure to respect a previous Court ruling.

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Drinking water: Commission welcomes French compliance with EU rules on nitrate pollution in Brittany

The European Commission has welcomed measures taken by France to comply with its obligations under EU rules as regards nitrate pollution of sources of drinking water in Brittany, and has closed its infringement case. France was condemned by the European Court of Justice in 2001 for breaching EU rules on the quality of surface water used to produce drinking water. A second referral to the ECJ was suspended in 2007 after France adopted an action plan to ensure compliance with nitrate concentration limits. France is now implementing the action plan. The Commission will continue to monitor compliance in the area.

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Environment - Sustainable Consumption and Production: European retailers deliver green code of conduct

European business leaders today delivered a voluntary environmental code of conduct for the retail sector. Retailers signing up to the code commit to a set of principles and measures aimed at reducing their environmental footprint. The Retail Environmental Sustainability Code was presented to EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at an event to mark the first anniversary of the Retail Forum. The Forum was set up last year by the European Commission and the European retail sector as part of their drive to promote more environmentally sustainable consumption patterns.

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Environment: Commission welcomes Spanish compliance with bird protection rules; infringement procedure closed

The European Commission has welcomed appropriate action by the Spanish authorities in a case where Spain had been in breach of its obligations under EU nature protection rules, and has closed the infringement procedure. The case concerns a long running dispute with Spanish authorities over the designation of areas for the protection of birds, after numerous shortcomings identified by the Commission have finally been resolved. The EU's Court of Justice had ordered Spain to comply with the legislation in question, and a considerable expansion of protected areas means that the case can now be closed.

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Environment: Commission requests Portugal to ensure coastal developments comply with habitat protection rules

The European Commission is requesting Portugal to ensure that coastal developments in sensitive natural areas are fully compliant with EU environmental protection law. The Commission is concerned that planning permission has been granted for two substantial developments in protected natural areas in the Alcácer/Grândola districts in the north of Alentejo, inside an area known as Comporta-Galé, part of Europe's Natura 2000 network, despite projected negative effects. If the planned developments go ahead unchanged, sensitive protected areas could be lost forever. The case has important implications, as further more similar developments in the region are also under consideration. Portugal has two months to comply with the request, which takes the form of a reasoned opinion under EU infringement procedures, failing which the Commission may refer Portugal to the EU's Court of Justice.

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Environment: Commission brings four Member States to Court for failing to implement EU laws

The European Commission is taking four Member States (Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Greece) to the EU's Court of Justice for failing to transpose EU environmental legislation into their national laws. Belgium is being referred to Court concerning EU rules on end of life vehicles, Luxembourg concerning groundwater and drinking water legislation, Germany concerning EU rules on the access and use of spatial data related to the environment and Greece concerning landfill rules.

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Environment: Commission requests ten Member States to comply with EU legislation

The Commission is requesting ten Member States (Belgium, Bulgaria, Estonia, France, Portugal, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Malta and Slovakia) to comply with EU environmental legislation in five different areas, namely prevention of floods, electrical and electronic equipment waste, water policy, management of environmental noise and landfill waste sites. The cases fall into three different categories: non-communication – the failure to adopt EU legislation at national level; non-conformity between national legislation and the requirements of EU legislation; and bad application, failing to properly apply the requirements of EU legislation. Nine of the Member States now have two months to respond to the requests, which take the form of 'reasoned opinions' under EU infringement procedures. In the case of Malta, the deadline to respond is one month. In the absence of satisfactory responses from the Member States concerned, the Commission may refer them to the EU's Court of Justice.

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Environment: Commission requests Belgium, Greece and Romania to implement EU air quality rules

The European Commission has decided to request Belgium, Greece and Romania to implement in full EU air quality legislation on particulates. The three Member States have so far failed to tackle excess emissions of tiny airborne particles known as PM10. The Member States have two months to comply with the requests, which take the form of reasoned opinions under EU infringement procedures, failing which the Commission may refer them to the EU's Court of Justice.

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Waste water treatment: Commission seeks substantial fines for Belgium; sends fresh warning to Luxembourg

The European Commission is referring Belgium back to the EU's Court of Justice for its failure to bring the country's waste water treatment up to the standards required by EU law. The Commission has asked the Court to impose a lump-sum fine of more than €15 million and a daily penalty payment of nearly €62.000. Despite an earlier Court ruling in the long-running case, some 40 agglomerations still remain listed as not complying with EU legislation. The Commission is also sending Luxembourg a fresh warning that it will be taken to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for the second time with the possibility of fines over the same issue. Both Member States are still not complying with the 1991 Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, despite having been condemned by the EU's Court of Justice for this.

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Questions and answers on bathing water policy

How does the European Union help to clean up Europe's beaches?

What is the difference between guide and imperative values?

What can we learn about the quality of bathing sites today from information from the previous season?

Other questions ?

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EU bathing water quality remains high

Clean bathing waters are vital for key economic sectors such as tourism and for plant and animal life. The annual bathing water report presented by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency shows that 96 % of coastal bathing areas and 90 % of bathing sites in rivers and lakes complied with minimum standards in 2009. It also describes where to obtain detailed and up-to-date information on bathing sites.

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Statement by Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for Environment, on the eve of World Environment Day, 5 June 2010

World Environment Day is an important day in the calendar. Our world needs it. By continuing to make the choices we make, by consuming and producing in the way that we have been doing for too long, we run the risk of changing the world irreversibly. We run the risk that future generations will not enjoy the planet in the same way that we have been lucky enough to do.

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Janez Potočnik European Commissioner for Environment Opening remarks European Business Awards for the Environment Awards Ceremony Brussels, 2nd June 2010

Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished guests,

Finalists of the 2010 edition of the European business Awards for the Environment.

A warm welcome to you all. It's always a pleasure to address a group in a relaxed atmosphere like this, in a friendly competition where we share a common purpose. Let's not forget that while there will only be one winner in each of the four categories tonight, your presence here means that you are already a winner. So before anyone is disappointed – congratulations to you all!

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EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly decision package, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against several Member States for failing to comply with EU law. These decisions cover many sectors. They aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The Commission has taken 226 decisions, including 13 complaints taking 10 Member States before the European Court of Justice, and 3 decisions related to non-application of a Court's ruling.

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Environment: Twelve Member States warned over missing river basin plans

The European Commission is sending a first warning to twelve Member States for failing to submit their plans for managing Europe's river basins, as required by EU water legislation. The Member States involved are: Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia and Spain. The river basin plans are the cornerstone of the Water Framework Directive and essential for achieving the EU's objective of 'good status' for European waters by 2015. They should have been adopted by 22 December 2009 at the latest.

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Environment: Six Member States face Court for failing to put EU laws on their statute books

The European Commission is taking six Member States to the European Court of Justice for failing to transpose EU environmental legislation into their national laws. Court action is being taken against Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Greece and Luxembourg, following two earlier warnings.

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Air quality: Commission sends final warning to UK over levels of fine particle pollution

The European Commission is pursuing legal action against the UK for failing to comply with EU air quality standards for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10. These particles emitted mainly by industry, traffic and domestic heating, may have negative effects on health leading to asthma, cardiovascular problems, lung cancer and premature death. A second and final written warning has been sent to the UK for still exceeding the limit values for PM10 in a number of zones.

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Environment: Calls for taxation regimes to reflect impacts on the environment

Today the European Commission, together with the UN Environmental Programme, launched a major new report highlighting the need for a radical change in the way major economies are using scarce resources. The report provides science-based priorities for world environmental efforts, ranking products, materials and economic and lifestyle activities according to their environmental and resource impacts. Major findings include the news that over half of all world food crops are now fed to animals, and that a doubling of wealth leads typically to an increase of environmental pressure by 60 to 80 per cent. The 149-page report, put together by the International Panel for Sustainable Resource Management, indicates that legislators and policymakers looking to make the most impact on the Earth's well-being should use taxes and other incentives to encourage more eco-friendly agricultural practices and reduce the use of fossil fuels.

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Commission and Agency unveil two new tools to combat biodiversity loss

The opening session of the Green Week conference in Brussels today saw the unveiling of two new weapons to step up the fight against biodiversity loss. BISE, the Biodiversity Information System for Europe, is a new web portal centralising information about European biodiversity in a single location. The European Environment Agency and the European Commission have also developed a "biodiversity baseline" to be used by policymakers, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the current state of biodiversity. The baseline will be used to monitor progress in the renewed efforts to halting biodiversity loss, and will allow trends beyond 2010 to be clearly established and measured.

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Europe's largest annual conference on biodiversity opens in Brussels

Today sees the opening in Brussels of Europe's largest annual conference on environment. This year's event, coinciding with the International Year of Biodiversity, will concentrate on the immense variety of species and ecosystems that make up the extraordinary web of life on our planet. Green Week 2010 will address the current state of biodiversity and nature, offering potential solutions to the current alarming rates of loss in some 30 sessions. The conference will also see the launch of the Business and Biodiversity platform, a new initiative to raise awareness about the business arguments for protecting biodiversity. With more than 3000 participants from EU institutions, business and industry, non-governmental organisations, public authorities, the scientific community and academia attending, Green Week 2010 is a unique opportunity for key opinion leaders, the general public and the media to learn and exchange experience and good practice.

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May 2010

World Biodiversity Day: Thousands connect with nature through EU

Tomorrow is World Biodiversity Day and despite efforts around the globe, studies show that biodiversity - the rich variety of life on this planet - is diminishing at a startling rate. An innovative EU campaign to highlight this message is engaging thousands of people across the European Union and beyond. The campaign website has already received more than half a million visits, while over 56,000 people have shown their support for the campaign on Facebook. The Commission is marking World Biodiversity Day with a series of events in six focus countries: Spain, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Italy.

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Reduced Chemicals fees for SMEs

The Commission is taking further measures to ease the implementation of the new EU Regulations on chemicals for SMEs and reduce costs. The Regulation, that sets the fees to be levied by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in connection with Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (CLP), was adopted today. There are specific reductions for SMEs: 90% for micro enterprises, 60% for small companies, and 30% for medium-sized companies. These fees apply when a company asks for an alternative name for a substance or requests harmonized classification and labelling for substances. Companies can also use the new alternative name in a number of additional mixtures without paying an extra fee.

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Environment: New Commission strategy aims to get even more from bio-waste

The European Commission today laid out steps to improve the management of bio-waste in the EU and tap into its significant environmental and economic benefits. Bio-degradable garden, kitchen and food waste accounts for 88 million tonnes of municipal waste each year and has major potential impacts on the environment. But it also has considerable promise as a renewable source of energy and recycled materials. Today's Communication promotes actions to unlock this potential by making the best use of existing legislation while giving Member States discretion to choose the options best suited to their individual circumstances. Supporting initiatives at EU level will also be necessary.

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Environment: Water scarcity and droughts – a major concern for many areas in Europe

The European Commission today published a report on the progress of Member States in addressing water scarcity and droughts. Despite more rainfall in southern European countries in 2009 than in previous years, greater efforts are still needed to stop and reverse the over-exploitation of Europe's limited water resources. An effective water pricing policy, water efficiency and water saving measures are essential to ensure that Europe has enough good quality water to meet the needs of users and to face the challenges of a changing climate.

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Fighting against illegal timber exports: the European Union and the Republic of Congo sign partnership agreement

Today, the European Union and the Republic of Congo have signed the Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade Voluntary Partnership Agreement. The agreement foresees that, starting in July 2011, all wood products entering the European Union from the Republic of Congo will be required to carry a licence showing that they contain wood and wood products from a legal origin. European consumers will be ensured that wood and wood products imported from the Republic of Congo are of legal origin.

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Commission asks Finland to protect its endangered native seals

The European Commission is sending a first formal notice to Finland on the lack of adequate protection of the Saimaa ringed seal, one of the world's most endangered seals. The Commission is concerned for the declining population of this endangered species. There is an urgent need to protect it. The Commission is working closely with the Finnish authorities in order to ensure the adequate protection and implementation of nature protection law.

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Air quality: European Commission sends final warning to Italy over levels of fine particle pollution

The European Commission is pursuing legal action against Italy for failing to comply with EU air quality standards for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10. These particles, emitted mainly by industry, traffic and domestic heating, have been linked to asthma, cardiovascular problems, lung cancer and premature death. A second and final written warning has been sent to Italy for exceeding the limit values for PM10 in many zones or agglomerations across the country.

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Final warning for Greece over lack of measures to protect important wetland

The European Commission is pursuing legal proceedings against Greece for failing to put in place adequate measures to protect one of Europe's most important wetlands. The case relates to the pollution and degradation of Lake Koroneia in the region of Thessaloniki. Greece is being sent a second and final written warning for failing to implement the necessary legal protection and conservation framework for the site.

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Commission warns Hungary, Portugal and Romania over nature protection shortcomings

The European Commission is pursuing legal action against Hungary, and Portugal for breaching nature protection legislation. Hungary is receiving a second and final written warning about its failure to protect the Sajólád Wood in the east of the country, and for wider problems with the implementation of Natura 2000 in its national legislation. The Commission is also sending Portugal a final warning over an inadequate impact assessment for a tourist resort development in the south of the country. In a third case, the Commission is sending Romania a first written warning over bad application of EU nature law.

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Commission sends final warning to Ireland for non-compliance with Court ruling

The European Commission is sending a final warning to Ireland for failing to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling asking it to amend its law on environmental impact assessments. If the necessary steps are not taken, the Commission could refer the case back to the Court and ask for fines to be imposed.

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Waste water treatment: European Commission takes Italy and Spain to Court

The European Commission is taking Italy and Spain to the European Court of Justice over two long-running cases involving breaches of EU legislation on urban wastewater treatment. Many large towns and cities remain listed as not having waste water treatment up to EU standards, despite two earlier warnings.

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Environment: Europe's first Green Capital shares the secrets of sustainable urban development

Stockholm, Europe's first ever Green Capital, today showcased two visionary projects as examples of sustainable urban development. At a seminar in Brussels, Mayor of Stockholm Sten Nordin and representatives from the Swedish capital showed how cities across Europe can improve the quality of life for citizens while also looking after the environment. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik attended the seminar, organised by the European Commission, the Committee of the Regions and Stockholm.

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April 2010

Commission launches €35 million call for projects that turn environmental challenges into business opportunities

The European Commission today launched a €35 million call for eco-innovation projects to be funded under the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme. Under the 2010 CIP Eco-innovation call for proposals, funds are available for new projects in the area of materials recycling, sustainable building products, the food and drink sector and green business practices. Applications are particularly welcome from small businesses with green products or services that need backing to penetrate markets. The call opens today and runs until 9 September 2010. Some 50 projects could end up being chosen for funding.

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Eurobarometer: Europeans not well informed about biodiversity loss. European Commission launches campaign to raise awareness

The European Commission has published a Eurobarometer survey which shows that many Europeans do not understand what is meant by biodiversity and do not feel well informed about biodiversity loss. The Commission has at the same time launched a campaign aimed at informing the public about the loss of biodiversity in the EU.

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Six finalists vie for title of European Green Capital 2012 and 2013

Barcelona, Malmö, Nantes, Nuremberg, Reykjavík and Vitoria-Gasteiz have been shortlisted by the European Green Capital Award evaluation panel as finalists in the contest for this prestigious environmental honour.

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March 2010

Chemicals: New European Commission determined to make REACH a success

Vice President Tajani and Commissioner Potočnik have swiftly followed up on their undertaking given during their Hearings in the European Parliament by together visiting the European Chemicals Agency, ECHA, in Helsinki on 25 March. They are taking action to make progress towards the registration of chemicals and the management of substances of very high concern. Of particular importance is the smooth implementation of the registration of high-volume chemicals by the REACH deadline of 30 November 2010 by implementing solutions to practical problems to support industry's work, in particular SMEs. Both Commissioners also announced their common approach on the identification and management of substances of very high concern. They also welcomed progress on the translation of the guidelines for the implementation of REACH. Both commissioners underlined their commitment to the success of REACH, the European Chemicals Regulation.

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Commission speeds up registration and authorisation for safer

This memo focuses on action being taken for enterprises, in particular for SMEs, towards the approaching deadline of 30 November 2010 under REACH. It also provides background information regarding substances of very high concern and authorisation, where substantial progress has been reached. For general information on REACH and its procedures, see MEMO/08/360 "Implementing REACH in practice".

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Environment: Gävle wins European Mobility Week Award 2009

Gävle has won the 2009 European Mobility Week Award. The Swedish coastal city was judged by an independent panel of experts to have done the most to promote clean mobility initiatives during European Mobility Week 2009. Leon in Spain and the Croatian city of Ivanic-Grad were runners-up. The awards were presented by Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik at a ceremony in Brussels tonight.

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The European Commission launches environmental flagship project under the Eastern Partnership

The flagship project aims to strengthen environmental governance and develop a regional Shared Environmental Information System to strengthen the collection, storage and monitoring of reliable data. It was unveiled at the first meeting of the Eastern Partnership's (EaP) Panel on the Environment and Climate Change. The meeting was attended by representatives from the six partner countries - Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, EU Member States, as well as representatives from EU institutions and civil society. The project has received EU funding of around €13 million.

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World Water Day 2010: A red letter day for Europe's waters Reference

Today is World Water Day, and the Commission joins the UN in calling on governments around the globe to raise the political profile of the importance of water quality. But 22 March is also an important date for water management in Europe, because today is the deadline for Member States to submit their plans for managing Europe's river basins, as required by the Water Framework Directive. Most Member States are making good progress in delivering these plans, although a small number of States have significantly less progress. A decade after the legislation was adopted, the Commission is reviewing its implementation and envisages, by 2012, a "Blueprint to Safeguard European Waters."

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Environment in the EU27: 40% of municipal waste recycled or composted in 2008 Half a tonne of waste generated per person

In the EU27, 524 kg of municipal waste was generated per person in 2008. 40% of this municipal waste was landfilled, 20% incinerated, 23% recycled and 17% composted. The average amount of waste generated in the EU27 was virtually unchanged from 2007 (525 kg per person).

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Statement by the European Commission on CITES vote on bluefin tuna

"We are disappointed with the outcome of the CITES meeting as regards the EU proposal for a listing in Appendix I of bluefin tuna. The EU proposal was a strong commitment towards a sustainable future for the bluefin tuna and for fishermen. We regret that other Parties were not convinced with the merits of such a listing. We remain convinced that stringent measures are needed to ensure the recovery of Atlantic bluefin tuna. The European Union remains committed to the objective of safeguarding bluefin tuna stocks and we look to ICCAT to take its responsibility to ensure that stocks are managed in a sustainable way. If action is not taken, there is a very serious danger that the bluefin tuna will no longer exist."

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Environment: Commission sends Romania final warning over environmental impact assessments

The European Commission is sending Romania a final warning about a breach of EU laws regarding environmental impact assessments. A major formaldehyde production plant was built in Romania in 2007 without a permit and before any impact assessment had been made. Romanian authorities initially ordered the demolition of the plant, but the order was subsequently rescinded by a local court. The Commission is not aware of any sanction being applied to the operator. A failure to act on this second warning could see Romania brought before the European Court of Justice.

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Environment: Commission takes action against Sweden and Austria over missing industrial permits

The Commission is sending final warnings to Austria and Sweden about some 70 industrial installations that are either operating without permits or with permits that are now out of date. Fifty of these plants are in Sweden, and 21 in Austria. Under European law, the permits should have been issued by 30 October 2007. Permits are only issued if a number of environmental criteria are met.

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Ireland: Commission sends final warning over four breaches of environmental law; closes two cases

The European Commission is sending a final warning to Ireland over four cases where it has failed to comply with European Court of Justice rulings concerning illegal development and developments that may harm the natural and man-made heritage of the countryside, access to the Irish courts and protection of marine mammals. If the necessary steps are not taken, the Commission could refer the cases back to the Court and ask for fines to be imposed. Following action by the Irish authorities, the Commission is also closing two long-standing cases on drinking water supplies and shell-fish growing areas, shelving earlier proposed fines for the latter.

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Environment: Commission warns UK about unfair cost of challenging decisions

The European Commission is warning the UK about prohibitively expensive challenges to the legality of decisions on the environment. The Commission sent an initial warning to the UK government in 2007; failure to respond to this could result in a summons to the European Court.

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Environment: Commission sends Spain final warning over industrial waste

The European Commission is sending Spain a final warning about a breach of EU laws governing the treatment and disposal of industrial waste. The case concerns the stockpiling of solid industrial waste in the Huelva estuary without the necessary waste management measures for the protection of the environment. The stockpiling has been going on for more than 40 years, and some 120 million tonnes of waste have now been dumped.

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Environment: Fresh warning to Greece over nature protection shortcomings

The European Commission is again warning Greece about two failures to put into effect biodiversity legislation in a satisfactory manner. Greece has previously been taken to court for failing to designate a sufficient number of protected areas for birds, and for not providing adequate protection to the areas that have been designated. The court found numerous shortcomings, most of which have still not been tackled. Further failures to address these problems could mean another appearance in court and ultimately fines.

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Air quality: Commission continues action over levels of fine particle pollution and sulphur dioxide in Member State

The European Commission is pursuing infringement proceedings against five Member States that failed to comply with the EU's air quality standards for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10. These particles, emitted mainly by industry, traffic and domestic heating, can cause asthma, cardiovascular problems, lung cancer and premature death. Slovenia and Sweden are being referred to the European Court of Justice, while final written warnings have been sent to Cyprus, Portugal and Spain. In a separate case, Bulgaria is receiving a final written warning over its failure to control concentration levels of sulphur dioxide.

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Dragonflies, beetles and butterflies on Red alert

Habitat loss and climate change are having a serious impact on Europe's butterflies, beetles and dragonflies. The release of the latest European Red List, commissioned by the European Commission, shows that nine percent of butterflies, 11 percent of beetles that depend on decaying wood and 14 percent of dragonflies are threatened with extinction within Europe. Some species are so threatened that they are at risk of global extinction and are now included in the latest update of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™.

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European Neighbourhood Policy: Launch of the Environment Partnership of the Black Sea Synergy

Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik has opened today the Conference launching the Environment Partnership of the Black Sea Synergy initiative. The Environment Partnership is established to support the efforts of the EU and its partners of the wider Black Sea region to find cooperative approaches to the common challenges that the Black Sea region faces. The Black Sea Synergy initiative is open to all countries of the wider Black Sea region. In his opening speech, Commissioner Potočnik said: 'The Black Sea is not an EU sea. But it is 'our' sea; it belongs to all of us, it is shared by all its countries and neighbours, by all those who live in the region. We share the Black Sea and its challenges; we must share the responsibility to meet them'.

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Ten companies line up for the European Business Awards for the Environment 2010

Ten European companies were shortlisted today for the European Business Awards for the Environment. The finalists represent companies from Austria, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Spain, Turkey and the UK. The prizes, awarded by the European Commission every two years, single out European companies that have made an outstanding contributions to sustainable development in four categories - management, products, processes, and international cooperation. The four winners will be announced at a ceremony on 2 June 2010 during Green Week, the Commission's major annual environmental conference and exhibition event in Brussels. The awards go to companies that spur economic growth by contributing to innovation and competitiveness while also protecting the environment.

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Soil biodiversity: the invisible hero

Soils are home to over one quarter of all living species, yet Europe has no binding legislation to protect this precious resource. We depend on soil for food, fibres, construction materials, clean water, clean air, climate regulation, and antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin are derived from the soil. Soil biodiversity is the driving force behind this productive capacity, but that diversity faces numerous threats. A new report published by the European Commission suggests that mismanaging soil biodiversity could worsen climate change, jeopardise agricultural production and compromise the quality of ground water. The European Commission has been arguing for binding legislation in this area since 2006, but little progress has been made. The Soil Framework Directive is once more on the agenda of the Environment Council to be held on 15 March.

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Sustainable Consumption and Production: Commission launches handbook on how to assess the environmental impact of products

European Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik today launched an authoritative guide for policy-makers and business on how to assess the environmental impact of products. The guidance is part of the Commission's drive to promote more sustainable consumption and production patterns and reduce Europe's environmental footprint.

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European Commission launches public debate on protecting Europe's forests against climate change

The European Commission today adopted a Green Paper which sets out options for a European Union approach to the protection of forests and to information about forest resources and their condition. Responses to the Green Paper from the public, Member States, EU institutions and other stakeholders will guide the Commission on whether additional action is needed at EU level.

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February 2010

European Commission proposes that EU support ban on international trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna

The European Commission today proposed that the European Union should press for a ban on international trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna to enter into force within the next year. The Commission is deeply concerned that overfishing of Atlantic bluefin tuna driven largely by international trade is seriously depleting stocks of the species. The proposal will be discussed with Member States in order to reach a common EU position for the next meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), taking place in Doha, Qatar, from 13 to 25 March 2010.

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Nitrate pollution falling, but greater efforts still needed to meet water quality standards across the EU.

A European Commission report published today reveals that nitrate levels in waters across the EU are falling. The report shows that the implementation of legislation to prevent nitrates from agricultural sources polluting ground and surface waters is proving effective. However, in some regions, nitrate concentrations exceed EU water quality standards and farmers need to continue to adopt more sustainable practices.

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