Can Europe Reach Its Environmental Sustainability Targets by 2030? A Critical Mid-Term Assessment of the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a pivotal framework globally, addressing environmental concerns. The 2023 Agenda emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental issues with socio-economic development, recognizing their fundamental role in human prosperity. This research critically evaluates the mid-term progress of EU Member States in achieving the 2030 Agenda’s environmental targets. Using Eurostat data for SDGs 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, we’ve analyzed trends via the AAA (Holt–Winters) exponential smoothing algorithm. Results highlight progress from 2015–2022 but signal concerns for 2030 targets in several Member States. These findings urge local, national, and EU stakeholders to intensify efforts toward environmental sustainability goals. Corrections are imperative, given the predicted negative trends, emphasizing the need for immediate action to rectify trajectories before it is too late.