Environment is a major concern for Europeans. Since the 1970s, environmental policy has been a priority for the European Union and was brought to the fore by the Treaty of Amsterdam. The policies involved require a multi-sectoral approach integrating scientific, economic and political aspects. The complexity of this whole policy led the Commission to publish this updated edition. It explains the various issues at stake, the advances that have been made and the journey that still lies ahead for the achievement of this common European ambition.