European Commission - Science for Environment Policy

In-depth Reports

In-depth Reports are a series of publications from Science for Environment Policy, which take a comprehensive look at the latest science for key policy topics.

Latest Issue

Resource Efficiency Indicators – February 2013

Resource efficiency forms a vital part of Europe 2020, the EU's growth strategy towards a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy. This In-depth Report examines the progress in resource efficiency indicators, building on the EU's Resource Efficiency Roadmap.

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The Multifunctionality of Green Infrastructure - March 2012

Green Infrastructure (GI) stands to improve quality of life in many ways, through its environmental, social and economic credentials, based on the multifunctional use of natural capital. This In-depth Report describes the different functions that GI seeks to execute and explores the scientific evidence behind its ability to perform these functions.

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Soil Sealing - March 2012

Sealing soils with artificial, impenetrable surfaces interferes with the essential environmental, economic and social functions performed by soils. This In-depth Report explores the extent of Soil Sealing and its consequences for the water cycle and city temperatures.

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Plastic Waste: Ecological and Human Health Impacts - November 2011

This In-depth Report summarises and collates current research on the ecological and human health impacts of plastic waste in the environment. Using the Drivers Pressures State Impact Response (DPSIR) framework, it highlights major issues and concerns, as well as outlining questions around existing responses and possible strategies for the future.

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