Investment in environmental protection fell significantly in 2016

In 2016, industrial firms with 20 or more employees allocated €1.4bn to investments or research to protect the environment, i.e. 13% less than in 2015. Four sectors accounted for 69% of expenditure: energy, chemicals, food-processing industries and metallurgy. 40% of sums invested are intended to protect the air or climate. In addition to these investments, €2.9bn of recurring expenditure is intended for environmental protection.