Environmental policy, unlike other political fields, is an area in which the European Union has a comparatively wide array of responsibilities. In some of them the block has tackled problems head-on. One example is plastics, the use of which the EU is keen on limiting. On the other hand critics argue that the EU isn’t very forceful when it comes to issues such as air pollution or eco-friendly agriculture. Will the bloc use its powers more effectively in the future?
Environmental pollution
Working towards a cleaner union
Air pollution kills 1,200 children a year: EU agency
Air pollution still causes more than 1,200 premature deaths a year in under 18's across Europe and increases the risk of chronic disease later in life, the EU environmental agency has warned.
The ups and downs of the global nuclear industry
As Germany prepares to shut its last nuclear reactors for good, other countries are turning to nuclear as a means of boosting their energy independence and cutting fossil fuel emissions.
EU electric car adventurers should plan carefully
With Europe's electric car owners wondering whether to risk taking their vehicles for long journeys, AFP investigates the pitfalls and joys of long-distance emissions-free motoring
Can pee help to feed the world?
Human urine may seem like a crude way of fertilising plants in the era of industrial agriculture, but as researchers look for ways to reduce reliance on chemicals, some are growing increasingly interested in the potential of pee
Greenhouse gas emissions in the EU
This graphic shows the EU's greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 to 2019 and the EU's climate targets to 2030 and 2050.
European Union in the world
This online graphic shows the EU’s proportion of population, air pollution, energy use, trade, economic output and development cooperation.