Environment
France was one of the first countries to create an environment ministry, in 1971.[86] France is ranked 19th by carbon dioxide emissions due to the country's heavy investment in nuclear power following the 1973 oil crisis,[87] which now accounts for 75 per cent of its electricity production[88] and results in less pollution.[89][90] According to the 2020 Environmental Performance Index conducted by Yale and Columbia, France was the fifth most environmentally conscious country in the world.[91][92]
Like all European Union state members, France agreed to cut carbon emissions by at least 20% of 1990 levels by 2020.[93] As of 2009, French carbon dioxide emissions per capita are lower than that of China.[94] The country was set to impose a carbon tax in 2009;[95] however, the plan was abandoned due to fears of it burdening French businesses.[96]
Forests account for 31 per cent of France's land area—the fourth-highest proportion in Europe—representing an increase of 7 per cent since 1990.[97][98][99] French forests are some of the most diverse in Europe, comprising more than 140 species of trees.[100] France had a 2018 Forest Landscape Integrity Index mean score of 4.52/10, ranking it 123rd globally.[101] There are nine national parks[102] and 46 natural parks in France.[103] A regional nature park[104] (French: parc naturel régional or PNR) is a public establishment in France between local authorities and the national government covering an inhabited rural area of outstanding beauty, to protect the scenery and heritage as well as setting up sustainable economic development in the area.[105][106] As of 2019 there are 54 PNRs in France.[107]