Ecology

The problem in Poland is the coal-based structure of the energy sector. This results in the highest external costs for the production of energy in the EU, contributing to the loss of 1.2 million days’ pay annually as an effect of health problems.

Will the French government really take  a major energy, societal and economic change forward and seize the opportunities the Energy Transition offers? Or will it listen to vested interests in nuclear power and fossil fuels?

Energy policy has certainly become a popular sport in the UK these days. With the country preparing for a general election in a year’s time, the topic is now becoming a big political football.

How will the EU’s 2030 decisions influence the global fight against climate change.

The EU needs a common vision for its energy future. A shift towards renewable energy sources will increase security of supply and foster the competitiveness and sustainability of the economy.

With its 2050 Roadmaps the European Union is setting out a plan to meet the long-term target of reducing emissions by 80 to 95% by 2050 and is exploring routes towards a decarbonised energy system. All the scenarios of the European Commission indicate a growing share of renewables. A strong growth of renewable energy is described as a 'no regrets' option. A main challenge today is to ensure that strong growth in renewable energy continues after 2020 when the current renewables framework with binding targets expires.

This article examines how German environmental policymaking over the last 40 years transformed Europe’s economic engine into the international driver of green growth.

All around the world, mining has led to resettlements of the local population, drinking water contamination by cyanide spillages, large reduction of farmland, inadequate compensation paid by mining companies, and waste dumps near resettled villages result in health problems and the loss of traditional jobs such as agriculture and pastoral activities at the place of extraction.

On 2 February 2011, the European Commission presented an update to its Raw Materials Strategy from 2008. What are the practical implications of this European strategy, especially for resource rich developing countries around the world?

Natural resources form a huge part of the wealth of developing countries. However, that is only a potential wealth for the people.