Europe’s Biodiversity Declines Under Unsustainable Practices

The European Environment Agency (EEA) released its five-year report on September 29, assessing environmental and climate conditions across 38 European countries. The findings show that biodiversity is under severe threat on land, in freshwater, and in marine ecosystems. 

More than 80% of protected habitats are in poor condition, while 60–70% of soils are degraded. Freshwater ecosystems are similarly stressed, and about one-third of Europeans live in areas affected by drought.

Natural carbon sinks, such as forests and soils, have decreased by 30% over the last decade, undermining efforts to combat climate change. While the European Union has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 37% since 1990 and doubled the share of renewable energy, fossil fuels still account for 70% of the EU’s energy mix.

Air quality has improved, with premature deaths linked to air pollution dropping by 45% between 2005 and 2022. However, pollution—air, soil, water, and noise combined—still accounts for at least 10% of premature deaths in Europe.

The report points to European lifestyles as a key factor behind these trends. High levels of production and consumption, limited circular economy practices, and low recycling rates contribute to environmental degradation.

Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for the Environment, emphasized the need to accelerate sustainable policies, including circular bioeconomy initiatives.

Three-quarters of Eurozone businesses rely on ecosystems, highlighting the economic stakes. Teresa Ribera, Vice-President of the European Commission, warned, “Europe must act with vision, determination, and unity to protect its economy, lifestyle, and natural environment before it is too late.”

Extreme weather events have caused €738 billion in economic losses between 1980 and 2023, including €162 billion from 2021 to 2023 alone.