The EU now generates more energy from renewables than from fossil fuels, new report claims. Europe aims to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. This very ambitious goal seems closer to becoming a reality now that renewables have overtaken fossil fuels to become the EU’s main source of electricity. According to a newly published […]
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Latest EEA study finds multiple benefits of switch to renewable electricity
The increased use of renewable electricity across the European Union has not only reduced pressures linked to climate change, but also to air and water pollution (particulate matter formation, eutrophication and acidification), according to a European Environment Agency (EEA) briefing published today. More targeted actions can help minimise the negative environmental effects of boosting renewable […]
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Circular economy: definition, importance and benefits
The European Union produces more than 2.5 billion tonnes of waste every year. It is currently updating its legislation on waste management to promote a shift to a more sustainable model known as the circular economy. In March 2020 the European Commission presented, under the European Green Deal and as part of the proposed new industrial strategy, a new circular […]
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Delivery drones and the environment
A technology with uncertain potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from e-commerce and the logistics industry and concerns over increased noise pollution and threats to wildlife. Drones, originally developed and used for military purposes, have found applications in many civil sector areas during the last decade. Although often referred to as ‘remotely piloted aircraft systems’ or […]
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Driving hydrogen mobility forward in Europe
During European Hydrogen Week, stakeholders discussed the achievements of EU-funded flagship projects advancing hydrogen technology in the transport sector. Hydrogen is playing a vital role in the race to create a sustainable European economy. On 23-27 November, the first-ever European Hydrogen Week was held in recognition of this renewable energy source’s important role in Europe’s […]
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Blockchain: Enemy or ally in the fight against climate change?
Blockchain, a digital ledger technology, is widely known for its application to cryptocurrencies. Introduced in 2008 to serve as a public transaction ledger for Bitcoin, the technology has given rise to hundreds of cryptocurrencies (e.g. Ethereum, Ripple, NEO, Litecoin), as well as having other emerging applications in diverse fields, including supply chains, digital content, patents, smart contracts, […]
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EEA: Improvement in Europe’s air quality over past decade
Better air quality has led to a significant reduction of premature deaths over the past decade in Europe. However, the European Environment Agency’s (EEA) latest official data show that almost all Europeans still suffer from air pollution, leading to about 400,000 premature deaths across the continent. 2020 Report The EEA’s ‘Air quality in Europe — […]
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Impact of COVID-19 measures on the environment
The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions imposed to fight the spread of the disease have provided some short-term positive impacts on Europe’s environment, according to a European Environment Agency (EEA) briefing published. These include temporary improvements in air quality, lower greenhouse gas emissions and lower levels of noise pollution. However, the assessment also stresses that […]
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Doubling the renovation rate to cut emissions, boost recovery and reduce energy poverty
The European Commission has published its Renovation Wave Strategy to improve the energy performance of buildings. The Commission aims to at least double renovation rates in the next ten years and make sure renovations lead to higher energy and resource efficiency. This will enhance the quality of life for people living in and using the buildings, reduce […]
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