All human activity has an impact on the surrounding environment. However, that which is unknown can sometimes appear more dangerous than it actually is.

The construction of ESS will be subject to the same laws as other buildings. An environmental impact assessment must be drawn up and tested according to the Swedish Environmental Code. The facility must also be tested against the Swedish Radiation Protection Act and the Swedish Planning and Building Act. The same environmental consideration will be taken in connection with the construction of the facility as in all other similar contexts. The rigorous process of acquiring a permit guarantees that ESS will have the minimum impact on the environment.

If anything, the research carried out at ESS will contribute to breakthroughs being made in many fields where the positive environmental effects are great. Safer material and products with longer life spans are a couple of examples.