Environmental law of the European Union and its mechanisms for sustainability policies from a European perspective

Claudia, Seitz (2025) Environmental law of the European Union and its mechanisms for sustainability policies from a European perspective. EUROPEAN INTEGRATION STUDIES, 21 (1 spec). pp. 341-387. ISSN 1588-6735

Preview

Text 341-387.pdf - Published Version Download (624kB) | Preview

Abstract

EU environmental law has a long tradition. During the last decade, however, EU environmental law developed into a cornerstone of EU policy. The European Green Deal aims to promote the combined policy objectives of sustainable development and protection of the environment for current and future generations. Within this policy framework, and based on a comprehensive legal framework, the EU has established mechanisms to address a wide range of environmental issues, including air and water quality, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. From a legal perspective, EU environmental law is characterized by its integration into all areas of EU policy and its binding nature on the Member States. The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) already enshrines environmental protection as one of the EU's objectives and mandates the integration of environmental considerations into all policy areas, ensuring a coherent and holistic approach to sustainability. Key mechanisms for sustainable policies within EU environmental law include directives, regulations, and decisions, that set forth common standards and objectives for Member States to achieve. These legal instruments provide a framework for harmonizing environmental policies across the EU while allowing for flexibility to accommodate national circumstances and priorities. In summary, the environmental law of the European Union embodies a comprehensive and integrated approach to sustainability, combining customized legal instruments, institutional mechanisms, and policy frameworks to promote environmental protection, economic prosperity, and social well-being across the EU.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item