MEPs have approved legislation on "environmental growth accounts", paving the way for greater disclosure of environmental information by member states.
From 2012, European countries will have to provide Eurostat – the EU statistical office – with information on air quality, material flows and any environmental taxes that are levied.
Following a review, water usage and forestry resources may be added to the list of information that member states must submit each year.
“Environmental accounts are a missing piece of the puzzle in terms of better understanding of economic activities,” commented Jo Leinen, chair of the European Parliament’s environment committee.