Bulgaria adopted the Kyoto Protocol[104] and achieved the protocol's objectives by reducing carbon dioxide emissions from 1990 to 2009 by 30 percent.[105] However, pollution from factories and metallurgy works and severe deforestation continue to cause major problems to the health and welfare of the population.[106] In 2013, air pollution in Bulgaria was more severe than any other European country.[107] Urban areas are particularly affected by energy production from coal-based powerplants and automobile traffic,[108][109] while pesticide usage in the agriculture and antiquated industrial sewage systems produce extensive soil and water pollution with chemicals and detergents.[110] Bulgaria is home to Maritsa Iztok-2, a lignite-fired power station causing the highest damage costs to health and the environment in the entire European Union according to the European Environment Agency.[111] It is the only EU member which does not recycle municipal waste,[112] although an electronic waste recycling plant opened in June 2010.[113] The situation has improved in recent years, and several government-funded programs have been put into place in an attempt to reduce pollution levels.[110] According to Yale University's 2012 Environmental Performance Index, Bulgaria is a "modest performer" in protecting the environment.[114] Over 75% of surface rivers meet the standards for good quality. An improvement of water quality began in 1998 and has maintained a sustainable trend of moderate improvement.[115]