In the past, economic development was based on exploiting natural resources. Fortunately, countries recognised this and developed new approaches improving people’s lives but also ensuring a healthy environment, such as the shift to a green economy, where generating income and protecting the environment go hand in hand.

In 2013 the European Union and its Eastern partnership countries Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine committed to the transition towards a green economy (EaPGREEN). Basically, the EU strategically supports governments and businesses in greening their activities: sustainable development aspects are therefore introduced into national legislations.