The European Environment Agency’s “State of Europe’s Environment 2025” report highlights ongoing challenges despite progress in emissions reduction and air quality improvement. Biodiversity loss, water stress, and climate change are growing threats to Europe’s economy, security, and quality of life.
A Continent Under Pressure
The EEA report indicates Europe’s environment is in poor condition. Greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 37% since 1990, and renewables have doubled since 2005. However, the degradation of natural systems persists, with over 80% of protected habitats in poor condition and significant soil deterioration.
“We cannot afford to lower our climate and environmental ambitions,” stated Leena Ylä-Mononen, EEA Executive Director.
Nature in Decline, Waters Under Strain
Biodiversity in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems is decreasing due to unsustainable agriculture and land use. The report warns that 2030 policy objectives are unlikely to be met, leading to continued ecosystem decline. Around one-third of Europe’s population experiences water stress, with only 37% of surface waters achieving “good ecological status.” Droughts, floods, and pollution add to the crisis, threatening water, food production, and aquatic ecosystems.
Fastest-Warming Continent
Europe is the fastest-warming continent, with rising temperatures causing severe wildfires, droughts, and heatwaves, stressing public health and infrastructure. Even with ambitious EU climate goals, further warming is expected, necessitating urgent adaptation measures.
“Recent extreme weather events show how fragile our prosperity and security become when nature is degraded,” said Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition.
Economic Competitiveness at Stake
Environmental degradation and climate impacts threaten Europe’s competitiveness, reliant on healthy ecosystems. Food production, water security, flood protection, and carbon sequestration depend on functioning natural systems. Delaying action increases costs, deepening inequalities and reducing resilience.
“Healthy nature is the basis for a healthy society and a competitive economy,” said Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for the Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy.
From Words to Action
The EEA advocates for rapid acceleration of European Green Deal measures, including habitat restoration, pollution reduction, and circular economy models. “Transformative change is needed,” said Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth. Investing in nature-based solutions and expanding green innovation are crucial for resilience and leadership in clean technologies.
What Lies Ahead
Despite challenges, there are signs of hope with rising green jobs, technological innovation, and sustainable investments in the EU. The EEA urges member states to view climate neutrality by 2050 as a strategy for competitiveness and stability, emphasizing responsible resource management and public trust through an inclusive transition.
For more context, readers can explore related coverage on The European Times, analyzing EU policy shifts linking economic reform to sustainability goals.
Background: The European Environment Agency releases the State of Environment Report every five years. The 2025 edition, developed with 38 countries through Eionet, provides insights on climate, biodiversity, and pollution trends. The report and press conference are available on the EEA website, held with the European Commission and EEA Executive Director Leena Ylä-Mononen in Brussels on 29 September 2025.
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