This report is a broad assessment of soil conditions in the pan-European region. It describes the degradation of soil, its relevance in the European and global contexts, and the links between soil and sustainable development. The report is mainly addressed to policy makers and the general public.

This report presents an inventory of existing scenarios studies relevant for Europe in the context of sustainable development, including European and global models. It also provides a useful review of a selected number of scenarios and pinpoints their strengths and weaknesses.

The use of environmental taxes in Europe is widening and more tax bases are being used. The EEA reports on developments in the use and impact of environmental taxes and on progress made with ecological tax reform.