The study analyses the coverage of environmental impacts in EU impact assessments and identifies lessons for Germany and the European Union. The focus is on how environmental effects – qualitatively, quantitatively and in monetary terms – are taken into account in the EU impact assessment process, especially in comparison to economic and social impacts. 

The results show that although the assessment of environmental impacts has improved significant challenges remain. First, not all environmental impacts are adequately considered in the decision making process. Second, the quantification and monetisation of environmental impacts could be improved by investing in models and data collection.