Climate Change Threatens Europe’s Natural Resources and Economic Security, EU Warns

Climate change and environmental degradation are directly threatening the natural resources Europe relies on for economic security, the European Environment Agency (EEA) warned on Monday.

In its report Europe’s Environment 2025, the agency highlighted that biodiversity is declining across the continent, driven by unsustainable production and consumption—particularly in the food sector. Over-exploitation of resources, pollution, and invasive species have left more than 80% of protected habitats in poor or bad condition, while water resources are under severe pressure.

Europe’s Fastest-Warming Continent
“Degradation of our natural world jeopardises the European way of life,” the report stated. Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent, is facing worsening droughts and other extreme weather events. Yet, governments remain divided, balancing climate action against industrial competitiveness. Disagreements over EU climate targets recently delayed the bloc’s global emissions-cutting commitments.

Time Running Out
“The window for meaningful action is narrowing, and the consequences of delay are becoming more tangible,” said EEA executive director Leena Yla-Mononen. “We are approaching tipping points—not only in ecosystems but also in the social and economic systems that underpin our societies.”