In 1973, the EU adopted the Environmental Action Programme (EAP). The associated legislation now covers areas such as birds and wildlife habitats, special areas of conservation, air quality, and waste management. It also includes the Water Framework Directive, which aims to ensure cleaner rivers, lakes, groundwater and coastal beaches in member states.
Key EU environmental targets to be met by 2030 include: zz zz zz
at least 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency.
By providing information for agencies involved in developing, implementing and evaluating environmental policy, the European Environmental Agency helps the EU and its member states make informed decisions about improving the environment (Fig. 24.11).
Fig. 24.11 The European Environmental Agency advises the EU on environmental policy.
CHECK YOUR LEARNING
1. List three economic policies that have contributed to the development of the EU. 2. Name three examples of social change that have been introduced by the EU. 3. List three EU environmental targets.
EU Enlargement
Fig. 24.12 Map showing EU enlargements.
Key Finland Sweden Denmark Netherlands Ireland
United Kingdom
Belgium Luxembourg France Portugal Spain Poland Germany
Republic Austria
Czech Hungary Romania Slovenia Croatia Italy Greece Malta 406 Cyprus Bulgaria Slovakia
Lithuania Latvia Estonia
1957 1973 1981 1986 1995 2004 2007 2013
at least 40% cuts in greenhouse gas emissions (from 1990 levels); at least 32% share for renewable energy;
