(06 February 2017) – Today the Commission adopted the Environmental Implementation Review, a new tool to improve implementation of European environmental policy and commonly agreed rules.
This is the beginning of a new process. The Commission will address with Member States the causes of implementation gaps and find solutions before problems become urgent.
According to the Commission, full implementation of EU environment legislation could save the EU economy €50 billion every year in health costs and direct costs to the environment.
Today’s package includes: 28 country reports which map national strengths, opportunities and weaknesses; a Communication summarising the political conclusions of the country reports and examining common trends, in areas such as air quality, waste management and the circular economy, water quality and protecting nature and biodiversity; and recommendations for improvements to all Member States.