European Environmental Policy at a Time of Crisis

This concluding chapter brings together the findings of the volume in order to address our key questions. We find that, while there have been examples of both policy expansion and dismantling, the general pattern is one of stasis. The role of the EU is ambiguous—there is no strong evidence of policy dismantling at the European level—but it is equally clear that policies pursued by the Troika have led to dismantling at the domestic level within some EU states. However, it also appears that the EU provides a buffer against ideological swings and provides policy stability for its members. Path dependence and international pressure are identified as two key intervening variables shaping the level and form of policy change. Overall, the EU’s environmental leadership credentials are diminished, and the lack of policy activity comes at a time when ambitious policies are needed to meet environmental challenges.