Ministers will aim to reach a general approach on a directive on the reduction of national emissions of certain pollutants. This new piece of legislation reviews and updates the current national annual emission ceilings of certain atmospheric pollutants. The main goal is to address the remaining health risks and environmental impacts posed by air pollution. The directive would also align EU law with international commitments.

The Council is expected to adopt conclusions on the 2015 mid-term review of the EU biodiversity strategy to 2020. This strategy, set up in May 2011, aims at halting the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of ecosystem services in the EU by 2020 and restoring them as far as feasible. The mid-term review takes stock of progress to meet the objectives by 2020. The Council conclusions will give a political response to this review and highlight the areas where further work is needed.