European Environment Agency's Newsletter, Issue 01/2026
Editorial - Welcoming Moldova to the EEA and Eionet
Today, I had the honour to officially welcome the Republic of Moldova as a cooperating country of the European Environment Agency (EEA) and the European Environment Information and Observation Network (Eionet).
Environmental challenges do not stop at national borders. The recent oil pollution, caused by a Russian attack on a Ukrainian hydropower complex, is currently affecting the wider Dniester river basin, including the Moldovan territory. The clean-up efforts entail close collaboration with Romania – an EU Member State. This incident is a testimony not only to common challenges, including those caused by war, we face, but also to the solutions we can develop together.
Pollution, our mental health and vulnerable groups: what is the connection?
"The preliminary analysis shows that across countries, there are some more polluted neighbourhoods where the proportion of older people, children, unemployed and foreign-born is also higher, leading to a disproportionate exposure for these groups.
(...) We know that a healthier population is a more resilient population. So we need to ensure the same level of protection for all Europeans, and that nobody is left behind. "
Exposure to pollution linked to depression, anxiety and other mental health issues
Reducing pollution, in line with the EU Zero Pollution action plan, could improve mental health across Europe, according to an EEA briefing published today. The publication covers the links between air pollution, noise and chemical pollution to mental health issues, as well as opportunities for action – including the positive effects of nature-based solutions on mental wellbeing.
Join Europe’s climate action community for ‘Together in Action 2026’, the Climate Pact’s annual celebration marking progress in tackling climate change and the drive towards a cleaner, more resilient Union. Meet policymakers, experts and community leaders; get inspired by grassroots initiatives; and explore the future of climate action from across Europe.
European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform Annual Conference 2026
22-23 April 2026, Brussels
This year's Annual Conference will take place on 22-23 April in Brussels. The title will be A competitive and fair circular Europe: The ambition at the heart of the single market and the event will focus on the upcoming Circular Economy Act.
Please check regularly our dedicated page on the EEA website as more events will be organised, and follow our LinkedIn for early information on events.
