All Environment Publications

Communication on Accelerating Europe’s transition to a circular economy: boosting the circularity of plastics

Commission Implementing Decision granting a derogation on nitrates requested by Ireland (2025)

Water scarcity is a pressing issue, especially in semi-arid regions such as Spain. This perspective study discusses how human and ecosystem needs are balanced in Spain, where agriculture, tourism, and energy are heavily reliant on ever-scarcer freshwater resources that are vulnerable to drought.

Strips of planted flowers are used to combat agricultural intensification across Europe, also providing essential refuge and food for many species. A study assesses how best to design flower areas to maximise their benefits, finding linear strips to be most effective at enhancing species richness.

Hedgerows, copses, and scattered trees provide many benefits for wildlife and people within the farmed landscape. This study found that such trees – the benefits of which were recognised by farmers – supported more abundant and species-rich butterfly communities than those in tree-free farmland.

Peatlands improve water quality, boost biodiversity, and lower emissions, but many have been drained. This study assesses how prior drainage has impacted the properties of peat in restored boreal peatlands. The peat is drastically different – and rewetting does not restore its former properties.

The EU launched its ‘100 Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission’ in 2021, urging cities to develop transition plans for climate neutrality. This study assesses its implementation, noting financial and time barriers and finding that adaptive governance and reflexive learning are key to success.

As our environment changes and invasive plant species spread, it is unclear how ecosystems will react. This study explored how ten invasive and native species would respond to environmental changes (e.g. drought, salinity), finding native species to be more resistant to change than invasive ones.

Depression affects 5% of adults globally. Research suggests that environmental factors can influence its development. This study explores the relationship between air pollution and depression risk, finding a positive association for particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and mixed ambient air pollution.