This project covers new environmental policy initiatives in 2006 in the EU Member States and Acceding Countries. Relevant information is collected and analysed against the background of the renewed Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS) and the Lisbon Strategy.

The 2005 review of the EU SDS provided an updated framework for addressing long-term economic, social and environmental unsustainable trends. The renewal of the Lisbon strategy for Growth and Jobs and the national reform programmes by Member States highlighted the role of a healthy environment in economic growth, long term competitiveness and quality employment. Both strategies underline the importance of, and contribute to, better regulation and innovation.

The project gives an overview of the new developments in 2006 in all Member States. As part of a European consortium, Ecologic has contributed the country reports on Germany and Spain.

The Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP) leads the consortium. The project represents the eightteenth project within the framework agreement with the Environment Directorate-General of the Economic Analysis in the Context of Environmental Policies and of Sustainable Development.