This book critically examines the European UnionAEs developing relationship with the green agenda, identifying links between the emerging pattern of green politics and patterns of EU policy-making. It examines why and how the environment has become such a significant part of the EUAEs activities and assesses the extent of the greening of the Union. In particular it examines to what extent green politics have impacted upon the EU institutions, its other policies and its progress towards sustainability. In tackling these questions, the book questions whether these aims can be effectively instigated given the underlying economic rationale that has been the driving force behind the EUAEs development so far.