This chapter examines how the European Union (EU) is dealing with the issue of the regulation of consumption to achieve environmental goals. The EU's approach to production and consumption-related environmental problems is described. In Western Europe, a fundamental shift is underway. No matter how strictly production is regulated, the important environmental problems remain. This is particularly the case, when the problems are closely related to consumption and lifestyles, and do not result directly from dangerous or inefficient production processes. Policymakers are starting to think about the regulation of consumption to achieve environmental goals. Various ideas and concepts from environmental social science are also described. Consumption-related environmental problems are being understood as technical problems, largely related to products, which can be solved in a way that will bring economic gains for all concerned.
Mobil →
