Brussels, 30/11/2010 (Agence Europe) - More growth and a healthy environment - this is not only possible but an inescapable way for the EU to reduce the growing pressure on natural resources and move towards green, sustainable and job-generating growth in a world that is increasingly interdependent, affected by climate change and threatened by increasing risk for ecosystems. The fourth report on the state of the environment in Europe, “The European Environment - State and Outlook 2010”, published on Tuesday by the European Environment Agency (EEA) demonstrates this. It proceeds to a detailed analysis of the changes that affect the European environment and shows that the rise in global demand for natural resources to feed, clothe, house and transport people is accelerating. These mounting demands on natural capital are exerting increased pressure on ecosystems, economies and social cohesion in Europe and elsewhere. According to the EEA, such a situation calls for a fully integrated approach to ensure Europe becomes a resource-efficient, green economy. Speaking to the press in Brussels, Jacqueline McGlade, EEA Director, highlighted the fact that the interlinking of risks and increasing vulnerability are at the origin of ecosystem instability. Environmental legislation is no longer able to meet the complexity and multiplicity of risks of which climate change is the most obvious, she explained.
European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek considers publication of the report to coincide with the climate conference in Cancùn is “perfect timing”. Given that there is no simple solution, legislators, companies and citizens must all rally to the efficient use of resources, he said. Joke Shauvliege, President-in-Office of the Environment Council, welcomed the fact that emphasis was placed on the threat of production methods and consumption facing natural resources, and their impact on water, climate and biodiversity. “This report must not be put away in a drawer but used as a key to guide us towards green, innovative and sustainable growth”, she warned. Janez Potoènik, Environment Commissioner, highlighted the “economic, social and environmental impact of exhausting natural resources”. In his view, the EEA report shows that environmental problems call for a “systemic response to systemic risks”, including the implementation of European legislation, policies that are complementary to each other, an explanation of the impact of models of consumption, and resource efficiency inclusion in all sector-specific policies. (A.N./transl.jl)