The proposal for an 8^th EAP aims to accelerate the transition to a climate-neutral, resource-efficient and regenerative economy, which gives back to the planet more than it takes. It recognises that human wellbeing and prosperity depend on the healthy ecosystems within which we operate.

Building on the European Green Deal, it has the following six priority objectives

• achieving the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and climate neutrality by 2050
• enhancing adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change
• advancing towards a regenerative growth model, decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation, and accelerating the transition to a circular economy
• pursuing a zero-pollution ambition, including for air, water and soil and protecting the health and well-being of Europeans
• protecting, preserving and restoring biodiversity, and enhancing natural capital (notably air, water, soil, and forest, freshwater, wetland and marine ecosystems)
• reducing environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption (particularly in the areas of energy, industrial development, buildings and infrastructure, mobility and the food system)

In order to measure and communicate whether we are on track to meeting these objectives, the 8^th EAP proposal suggests setting up a new monitoring framework. This will help the EU and its member countries to determine to what extent we are living well, within planetary boundaries.

Previous and upcoming actions

• Air EU action to improve air quality and reduce air pollution.
• Chemicals EU action to ensure chemicals are safe, for health and the environment.
• Circular economy The EU’s transition to a circular economy with a focus on green growth.
• Industry EU action to make industry more sustainable and reduce industrial emissions.
• Marine and coastal environment EU action to protect Europe’s coasts, seas and oceans.
• Nature and biodiversity EU action on environmental conservation and protection.
• Noise EU action to reduce environmental noise pollution.
• Plastics EU action on plastic production and pollution to contribute to a circular economy.
• Soil and land EU action for the sustainable use of soil and land.
• Sustainable development: EU commitment to sustainable development in Europe and worldwide.
• Urban environment EU action to promote the sustainability of European cities.
• Waste and recycling: EU action on waste management, treatment and recycling.
• Water EU action on water issues, to protect water resources.