Europe’s Vulnerability to Climate Change: What You Need to Know | eKathimerini.com

Environmental issues are posing serious challenges to life in Europe. A recent report from the European Environment Agency highlights that about 75% of businesses in the eurozone rely on the environment for their operations.

The report also reveals a startling statistic: 34% of Europeans are feeling the impact of water scarcity. Agriculture is identified as the biggest threat to ecosystem health, affecting our water, air, and soil.

In Greece, there are some signs of progress. The country has made headway in reducing coal use, dropping its share of coal in energy production to 10.1% in 2023 from over 54% in 2014. Additionally, 35% of Greece is now protected land, with plans to increase marine protected areas from 18.3% to 30% in the future.

However, Greece still faces numerous threats linked to climate change. Issues like heatwaves, droughts, and floods are becoming more frequent. Research indicates that CO2 emissions from energy production are expected to approach zero by 2035, but waste management remains a big challenge. Recycling rates in Greece have plummeted to 17.3% in 2023, significantly lower than the European average. Furthermore, the recycling of packaging dropped from 54.1% to 43.4% between 2021 and 2023.

The report indicates that the climate emergency is reshaping how we consume energy. With heating needs decreasing and cooling needs on the rise, this shift creates pressure on our energy systems. High energy costs can limit economic growth, underscoring the need for affordable electricity. A recent survey found that many small businesses are struggling with energy prices, which affects their ability to compete.

Experts suggest that adopting renewable energy sources and improving recycling processes could help mitigate these challenges. It’s clear that the path ahead requires concerted effort from both governments and citizens to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future.

For more detailed insights, you can explore the complete report by the European Environment Agency [here](https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/european-environment-state-and-outlook).

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