What EU green rules are being rolled back by the European Commission?

The European Commission is proposing to exempt strategic projects like datacenters and AI gigafactories from mandatory environmental impact assessments and repeal a hazardous chemical database.

Why is the EU exempting AI and housing from environmental impact assessments?

The EU aims to speed up permitting for strategic sectors, including AI and affordable housing, as part of a broader effort to cut red tape and boost economic competitiveness.

What are environmental groups' concerns about the EU's deregulation plans?

Green groups worry these changes dismantle crucial environmental policy, undermine democratic accountability, and pose indirect risks to human health and nature.

Home / Environment / EU Slashes Green Rules for AI, Housing

EU Slashes Green Rules for AI, Housing

10 Dec, 2025

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Summary

EU may exempt datacenters, AI, and housing from environmental impact rules.
Plans aim to speed up permits for strategic projects and cut business red tape.
Green groups warn deregulation dismantles environmental policy and health protections.

New proposals from the European Commission suggest exempting sectors such as datacenters, AI gigafactories, and affordable housing from mandatory environmental impact assessments. This initiative aims to accelerate permitting for critical projects and reduce the scope of environmental reporting rules for businesses across the EU. Member states would gain discretion over whether these strategic projects undergo such assessments.

Further simplifications include repealing a hazardous chemical database and easing requirements for farms and industries regarding environmental management systems. The Commission estimates these measures will save companies approximately €1 billion annually. However, environmental advocacy groups decry the plans as a significant rollback of established environmental protections, raising concerns about long-term consequences for ecosystems and public health.