More than 100 scientists and other professionals invested a year in preparing the report.
The document not only issues warnings but also sets new priorities for dealing with the environment.
The authors dispute the commonly heard claim that little can be done to improve the environment without major capital investment.
“These changes don’t require massive government budgets. Instead, the government must promote environmental awareness and education; initiate legislation relating to land, planning of land use and of the urban environment; adopt stricter European standards for vehicle emissions; and improve public transportation by setting aside additional bus lanes.”
The experts recommend the establishment of a “popular lobby for the environment” that would be alert to threats and press for immediate action. In addition, they said the cost of handling waste should be included in the consumer price of products.