The IES is committed to promoting the crucial role of environmental science in society and an evidence-based approach to decision and policy making. Influencing the European Union is one of the best ways to achieve this. It plays a fundamental role in directing environmentally related policy across Europe, and has significant power over environmental issues internationally.

However, the legislative, parliamentary and bureaucratic structure of the EU is vast and complex, often daunting and intimidating to any individual or organisation who seeks to influence it. The IES has therefore put together this information pack to inform members of the structure of the EU and the various routes to influence EU issues, policies or legislation.

Updated in February 2015 to reflect changes in positions and committees.