Environment at a Glance

Changes in air quality affect human health and cause severe environmental damage, with economic and social consequences. The indicators here show emissions of selected air pollutants (SOx, NOx, PM_2.5), human exposure to fine particulates in the air and related mortality rates and costs.

Biological diversity plays an essential role in maintaining life-support systems and quality of life, and provides key resources and services for the economy. Its preservation is key to a sustainable development. The indicators here show threatened species, protected areas, forest resources and land cover.

Climate change affects ecosystems, water resources and human activity, with significant consequences for human well-being and economic output. The indicators here show greenhouse gas and carbon emissions, developments in energy supply and fossil fuel subsidies.

Freshwater resources are of major environmental, economic and social importance. Ensuring their sustainable management is key to avoid overexploitation and degradation. The indicators here show freshwater abstractions and water stress levels, and connection rates to wastewater treatment plants.

The ocean is vital for human activities and well-being. Reducing marine pollution and plastic litter, and managing ocean resources sustainably is crucial for preserving marine ecosystems and maintaining their economic value. The indicators here show coastal urbanisation, CO₂ emissions from international marine bunkers, technological innovation, marine and coastal protected areas, ocean-related taxes and fossil fuel support.

Material resources form the physical foundation of the economy. Their extraction and use has environmental, economic and social consequences in countries and beyond national borders. Sustainable materials management is key to avoid that valuable materials end up as waste. The indicators here show material consumption and related footprints, as well as waste generation and treatment of municipal waste.