The conclusions adopted by the Council on the proposal for a 7th EU Environment Action Programme call for an ambitious and compelling 2050 vision for an inclusive, green and competitive European economy, safeguarding the environment and health for present and future generations. At the Council meeting, the European Commission confirmed its intention to present a proposal for a 7th EAP before the end of 2012.

The Environment Ministers adopted on 11 of June the Council conclusions on the 7th EU Environment Action Programme proposal. The conclusions underline that the 7th EAP should set out the key elements of the future environment policy, which should be linked to the Europe 2020 Strategy and other relevant strategies, such as the EU Sustainable Development Strategy.

The conclusions also call for an ambitious and compelling 2050 vision for an inclusive, green and competitive European economy, safeguarding the environment and health for present and future generations. In addition, the Council pointed towards two main elements of the 7th EAP: the strengthening and better implementation of the existing environment policy and legislation and the transition to a green economy.

The European Commission has been for quite a long time reluctant to refer to a 7th EAP. The Council did not share Commission's view and on a number of occasions invited the Commission to present such a proposal. The Commission argued that environmental concerns were already covered by the Europe 2020 Strategy and its flagship initiatives so there would be no real need for a dedicated programme in this area. At the Council meeting celebrated on 11 of June, the Commission confirmed its intention to present a proposal for a 7th EAP before the end of 2012.