Explainers

The page presents the latest data about air pollution in Europe, as well as facts about how pollution affects human health and the environment.

Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk in Europe. New EU rules will significantly improve air quality and reduce pollution-related deaths.

The EU promotes sustainable and eco-friendly practices in food systems to protect the environment and people’s health while improving the food sector’s resilience.

Water is a limited resource. EU legislation protects water resources and ecosystems, and makes sure that drinking and bathing water is clean.

Chemical substances are fundamental for many daily activities and can be found in everyday products. Sound management of chemicals is therefore crucial to protecting human health and the environment.

Soils are essential for the key services that nature offers, such as food and clean water. Ensuring soils are healthy is necessary for human health and well-being.

Tackling plastic waste is crucial in order for the EU to reduce pollution and protect the environment and human health. EU measures aim to develop a circular plastics economy.

Wasting food puts unnecessary pressure on natural resources and affects food security. EU rules aim to prevent and reduce food loss and food waste.

Waste is a hazard for the environment and human health. The EU works to prevent and better manage waste, and foster a more circular economy.

The Earth's resources are not infinite. The circular economy makes the use of products and materials more sustainable and offers the EU an opportunity to become more competitive.