On the Interrelation Between Consumer and Environmental Policies in the European Community

Abstract

The paper describes the different development of consumer and environmental policy at Community level, since 1972. It points out that consumers, today, are better off than 20 years ago, while the environment is worse off. One of the main features of the evolution is that consumer policy asks for better value for money, whereas environmental policy is concerned with consumption, limits to growth, concern for tomorrow, global problems, future generations etc. National and Community administrative infrastructure has developed differently over the past twenty years. So has public awareness towards environmental and consumer issues. Consumer interest in environmental matters is limited, though problems in water, air and soil pollution, nature protection, and waste management would need consumers’ interest. The paper denounces the limitation of consumer policy to consuming questions and the absence of interest in consumption problems.

A great delight is granted When, in the spirit of the ages planted, We mark how, ere our time, a sage has thought, And then, how far his work, and grandly, we have brought.

Goethe: Faust