The six environmental objectives of the EU taxonomy: a detailed view

The goal of climate mitigation is focussed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Activities that contribute to this include the development and use of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and hydropower. Increasing energy efficiency in buildings and industrial processes and promoting low-emission means of transport and infrastructure are also crucial. Investment in the research and development of low-carbon technology also plays an important role. This goals aims at reducing the man made impact on climate change.

Companies focussing on climate change adaptation are developing solutions to increase resilience to the unavoidable effects of climate change. These include, for example, the improvement of flood protection systems, the development of drought tolerance in agriculture and the adaptation of buildings to extreme weather conditions. The implementation of early warning systems for natural disasters also falls under this objective.

This goal includes activities aimed at the protection and sustainable use of water and marine resources. These include measures to reduce water pollution, the efficient utilisation of water resources in industry and agriculture and the protection of marine ecosystems. Investments in wastewater treatment plants and technologies for water treatment and reuse are also relevant here.

The transition to a circular economy involves minimising waste through recycling and reuse and reducing resource consumption. Companies contribute to this goal by designing products that can be more easily recycled or repaired and by implementing processes that avoid waste in production. The promotion of business models based on sharing and reuse is also part of this goal.

Activities aimed at preventing and minimising pollution include reducing emissions of pollutants into the air, preventing the release of hazardous chemicals into water and soil and reducing noise emissions. Companies can achieve this by using advanced filter technologies, switching to clean energy sources and developing environmentally friendly materials.

The protection of biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Companies active in this area are committed to the protection of natural habitats, the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the sustainable management of forests, soils and water bodies. The development of green infrastructure that promotes biodiversity in urban environments is also an eligible activity.