Preserving our environment Europe’s seas, oceans, and environment are a source of natural and economic wealth for Europe. We must preserve and protect them to ensure that they continue sustaining us in the future. European Green Deal priorities include protecting our biodiversity and ecosystems reducing air, water and soil pollution moving towards a circular economy improving waste management ensuring the sustainability of our blue economy and fisheries sectors By working on these key areas, the EU will improve the health and quality of life of citizens, address environmental problems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The European Commission adopted a set of proposals to make the EU's climate, energy, transport and taxation policies fit for reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. More information on Delivering the European Green Deal. In the spotlight ‘Stop finning – Stop the trade': Commission responds to European citizens' initiative5 July 2023 - In response to the European citizens' initiative ‘Stop finning – Stop the trade', the Commission has announced actions to put an end to the cruel and illegal practice. 'Finning' refers to removing the fins of a shark and throwing the animal back to sea, often while it is still alive. The actions proposed by the Commission include examining the opportunity of taking a legislative initiative to end trade in loose fins, starting an impact assessment and improving statistics related to the practice.Read more ActionsBiodiversity Strategy for 2030Circular economy action planChemicals strategy for sustainability Organic action plan 8th Environment Action ProgrammeBlue economy strategy Zero pollution action planWaste and recycling Sustainable batteries'Farm to Fork' strategyCommon Fisheries Policy Related links Directorate-General for Environment Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries3 billion trees to be planted in the EU by 2030
‘Stop finning – Stop the trade': Commission responds to European citizens' initiative5 July 2023 - In response to the European citizens' initiative ‘Stop finning – Stop the trade', the Commission has announced actions to put an end to the cruel and illegal practice. 'Finning' refers to removing the fins of a shark and throwing the animal back to sea, often while it is still alive. The actions proposed by the Commission include examining the opportunity of taking a legislative initiative to end trade in loose fins, starting an impact assessment and improving statistics related to the practice.Read more
