Overview
Industrial activities play an important role in Europe’s economy, but also have significant negative environmental impacts.
The largest industrial installations account for a considerable share of total key atmospheric pollutant emissions. They also generate waste and consume large amounts of energy. These emissions affect water and soil, harm ecosystems and crops, and threaten the environment.
The environmental and health impacts of industrial installations are therefore subject to EU-wide legislation, also in line with the Zero Pollution Action Plan.
Objectives
The EU aims to:-
- regulate noxious emissions caused by industrial activities
- reduce environmental footprint of industrial emissions
- raise awareness of the harmful impact of industrial emissions
- contribute to a greener industry and accelerate transition towards this
- prevent major accidents involving dangerous substances
Specific policies
Main EU Directive preventing and controlling emissions from industrial and livestock installations
Key environmental and resource use data from industrial facilities across the EU
Regulating pollutant emissions from the fuel combustion in medium-sized plants
Preventing and mitigating the risk of industrial accidents
Preventing emissions when storing and distributing petrol
Related links
Related topics: Air, Chemicals, Plastics
Related strategies: Chemicals strategy, Circular Economy Action Plan, Environment Action Programme to 2030, Plastics strategy, Textiles strategy, Zero Pollution Action Plan
Related Commission priorities: European Green Deal
