Integration of Environmental Protection into other EC Policies

Over the past few decades, the Community has developed its own environmental policy. In the context of this policy, the Community adopted measures that were designed to control environmental pollution caused by, for example, intensive farming, road transport and power generation from fossil fuels. In the context of its other policies, the Community has at the same time encouraged or contributed to the development of, for example, large agricultural holdings, major road transport networks and the liberalisation of the internal electricity market. It could be argued that such Community action is inconsistent with Community action in the environmental field. Data on the state of the environment does in fact show that other Community measures undermine the effectiveness of the Community environmental measures.

Article 6 of the EC Treaty stipulates that environmental protection requirements must be integrated into other Community policies and activities. This book examines the extent to which, if at all, this Treaty provision requires the Community policy maker to adjust policies so as to ensure that they are more compatible or even supportive of EC environmental policy. It analyses both theory (what should be) and practice (what is) of what has often been referred to as the 'integration principle'.

This study provides useful insights for both practicing and academic lawyers, especially those interested in environmental, agricultural, transport and energy issues. However, it may also be of interest to economists and environmentalists. In addition, it should be observed that the book contains specific suggestions for the Community policy maker and, indirectly, for national administrations in the EU