Resource efficiency is one of the most important challenges faced today by the European Union (EU), and the wider global community. It forms a central pillar of Europe 2020, the EU’s growth strategy for the coming decade towards a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy. Under the Europe 2020 strategy, the Flagship initiative for a resource-efficient Europe points the way towards sustainable growth and supports a shift towards a resource-efficient, low-carbon economy. This In-depth Report from Science for Environment Policy takes a closer look at progress in resource efficiency indicators, building on the EU’s Resource Efficiency Roadmap.