By Dr. Andreas Hadjichambis,
Scientific Director of the Cyprus Center for Environmental Research and Education (CYCERE) and Chair of the European Network for Environmental Citizenship (ENEC)
The European "Green Deal" and the envisioned "Green Transition" bring to light a dynamic, and at times conflicting, relationship between three forces or pillars: the Environment, Society, and the Economy. Together, these three pillars form the concept of Sustainability, often understood as Environmental Sustainability, Economic Sustainability, and Social Sustainability. Some scholars even add a fourth pillar: Culture.
The transition to a "Green Economy"—which includes moving away from polluting energy sources like fossil fuels—has led to increased product prices, further complicating the balance among these pillars. Additionally, the reference to amending the Constitution of the Republic of Cyprus to emphasize a "sustainable environment" highlights an explicit commitment to the principle of sustainability.
An example of this dynamic relationship can be seen in the recent protests by farmers. Representing the "Society" pillar, farmers rely on environmental resources but also demand higher economic returns, even if these come at the expense of the Environment and consumer health. Specifically, they called for relaxed environmental regulations on pesticides, opposing stricter legislation aimed at reducing their usage. This resistance benefits pesticide manufacturers, illustrating the pull of the Economy pillar.
With the "Green Deal" and "Green Transition," Europe appears to be shifting ideologically and politically from a traditional dominance of the Economy pillar toward prioritizing the Environment. This shift aims to improve the health and quality of life for European citizens amidst the undeniable climate crisis. However, the decision to withdraw stricter pesticide regulations after farmer protests signals a retreat for the Environment pillar under pressure from Society (farmers) and, indirectly, the Economy (pesticide manufacturers). This could be considered an initial setback for the ideological shift toward a greener future.
The response to the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated humanity's capacity for strong reflexes, composure, determination, and unity, grounded in knowledge. Many argue that Europe must now harness these same qualities to address the environmental and climate crises. This dynamic relationship among the three sustainability pillars will likely persist and intensify in the coming years, as every decision we make impacts all three. For instance, the new European Union directive to tighten limits on air pollution—often described as a slow and ongoing pandemic that causes approximately 300,000–400,000 premature deaths annually—will undoubtedly generate competing pressures.
The directive to reduce PM2.5 limits from 25 μg/m³ to 10 μg/m³ and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from 40 μg/m³ to 20 μg/m³ demands significant changes, particularly in transportation. In Cyprus, over 40% of NOx emissions and around 40% of primary PM2.5 emissions come from road transport. Through this directive, the EU clearly prioritizes protecting the Environment and public health.
Ultimately, the prevailing pillar of sustainability will reflect our collective resolve to protect the environment, public health, and quality of life. Yet, on a global scale, the European Union must also compete with major economies like the U.S., China, and Russia, which could shift the balance among the Environment, Society, and Economy. For sustainability to succeed, all pillars must be collectively considered. Excluding any pillar risks undermining the entire framework of sustainability and, by extension, society itself. We hope that the European Green Deal and the Green Transition are built on solid, unwavering foundations.
