Sustainability Archives | Euractiv

Spain can’t afford to keep its roads toll-free, says construction leader

Brian Maguire — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 21:57:39 +0000

Spain’s free-road model is draining public funds and undermining its green transition, warns SEOPAN President Julián Núñez

SAFE’s Annual Conference 2025 – Advancing Consumer Protection through Research

Cristiana Sbaraini — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 15:00:54 +0000

SAFE’s Annual Conference 2025, on 20 November in Brussels, will mark World Children Day, a good reminder of our journey as an organisation and a motivation to carry our work forward, along our core principles of Health, Environment, and Inclusion.

Investing in Nature: The Competitive Edge for a Resilient Economy

Laurine Augere — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:45 +0000

Our economy relies on nature, yet the economy also impacts nature in profound ways. This Op-Ed highlights the need for policy to support financial flows for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to build a more resilient and competitive economy.

What would it take for the EU Deforestation Regulation to work?

Laurine Augere — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:47 +0000

The EU Deforestation Regulation has suffered multiple setbacks due to its complex and occasionally vague legal architecture, leading to regulatory uncertainty and inconsistent interpretations across Member States. For the EUDR to go ahead successfully, some critical issues require immediate attention.

Towards Competitive, Innovative & Sustainable EU Food Systems

Laurine Augere — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:20 +0000

EU Specialty Food Ingredients urges continued EU support for competitive, innovative, resilient and sustainable food systems, emphasising regulatory efficiency, investment in innovation and collaboration across the agri-food chain to meet climate goals and global challenges.

Europe’s Bioeconomy Strategy must be industrial to succeed

Cristiana Sbaraini — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:00:21 +0000

Without decisive policy action, Europe’s chemical industry risks losing its global edge as bio-based innovation and manufacturing shift abroad. An industrialised EU Bioeconomy Strategy is key to scale up bio-based solutions in Europe, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness.

Water industry calls for urgent delivery of resilience strategy

Brian Maguire — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:06:33 +0000

Building water resilience is not just about sustainability, but also safeguarding Europe’s industrial competitiveness and economic strength in the face of climate pressures

Businesses look to import palm oil sustainably as EU legislation bites

Brian Maguire — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:01:43 +0000

New EU legislation and a fresh free trade deal will have major implications for an ingredient found in much of the food on European plates

Raising the Bar: A Call for Outcomes-Based Legislation to Unleash Europe’s Biotech Potential

Amanda Rosa Juan Webb — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:52 +0000

Europe’s biotech sector drives growth, resilience and strategic autonomy, but market weakness and fragmented regulation are threats. The EU Biotech Act must accelerate and expand healthcare, strengthen sustainable supply chains, create skilled jobs and attract investment to anchor global leadership.

The EU can promote the bioeconomy within planetary boundaries

Laurine Augere — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:47 +0000

The EU’s bioeconomy has immense potential to support the transition away from fossil fuels, while concerns about insufficient biomass availability risk holding back the bioeconomy. Sustainability criteria are the solution to incentivising first-generation biomass use within planetary boundaries.

Why businesses must embrace Europe’s 2040 climate target

Alkistis Damianakou — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:12 +0000

To safeguard Europe's competitiveness and resilience, the bloc must deepen its drive toward decarbonisation. Adopting the EU’s 90% CO2 reduction target will ensure European companies thrive in global markets for decades to come.

The Biosolutions Industry is Key to Competitiveness, Geopolitical- Resilience, and Sustainability – Europe must act now to keep it on European soil

Alkistis Damianakou — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:06 +0000

As the global race for biosolutions heats up, Europe finds itself at a critical juncture. While China, the Uni- ted States and other regions are rapidly advancing their biotech and biomanufacturing industries through strategic investments and streamlined regulations, Europe has the slowest regulatory system among our competitor regions, risking its position as a leader in this sector. If swift action is not taken, Europe will birth groundbreaking bio-companies that will only grow and flourish elsewhere.

Biocontrol is the future of the EU agriculture and food- if we let it happen

Alkistis Damianakou — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:00:29 +0000

EU Green deal goals orbit around sustainable farming. Resilient food systems are a necessity. Yet, outdated policies will not let that happen. It is time to align policy with science and market necessities and in Koppert we are ready.

Beyond timber, EU eyes profit potential of sustainable forests

Brian Maguire — Fri, 30 May 2025 14:48:42 +0000

Fighting deforestation is like weaning a junkie off a bad habit. The EU has put firms into compulsory rehab, but non-wood forest products are seen as profitable alternatives to deforestation.

A conversation about trade, sustainability and informed choices with Alexandre Ricard, Pernod Ricard

Zoran Popovici — Tue, 27 May 2025 08:00:42 +0000

As Pernod Ricard celebrates 50 years since its founding and 30 years in Brussels, Euractiv sits down with CEO Alexandre Ricard to discuss the importance of free trade, the role of the EU, and how a business rooted in geographic origin depends on open global markets to succeed.

‘Dilute, don’t delete’ the Omnibus package

Brian Maguire — Fri, 23 May 2025 12:25:24 +0000

The EU’s Omnibus initiative has sparked heated debate on achieving a sustainability - competitiveness balance. MEP Kira Marie Peter-Hansen describes its legislative process as ‘a mess’.

All eyes on the Quality Jobs Roadmap for construction

Alkistis Damianakou — Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:59 +0000

Abusive subcontracting chains are finally getting serious attention in the Berlaymont and European Parliament. However, although the European institutions recognise this serious problem in the construction sector, they are ready to approve measures which will be – if implemented – a merciless blow on labour rights, leaving workers unprotected.

Brick by brick: building a sustainable and affordable housing future for Europe

Alkistis Damianakou — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:59 +0000

Across the European Union, the twin challenges of housing affordability and climate resilience are converging—and they are compounded by a third: the ongoing geopolitical instability which in turns has led to fluctuating prices, and an unsustainable dependence on Russian gas, deepening the strain on European households and industry alike.

Epoxies Embrace Sustainability in the EU

Alkistis Damianakou — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:28 +0000

The European Union's 2050 climate neutrality target is driving a transformation across industries. The chemical sector is transforming from fossil-based raw materials to alternatives like biomass and recycled inputs to meet these green goals. Epoxy resins are versatile materials used as matrix materials for composites, adhesives and coatings. They are found in everything from household appliances to wind turbine blades. The epoxy industry is adopting innovative measures to align with EU sustainability targets.

Germany’s government-to-be out of step on gene edited crops

Jeremias Lin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:34:39 +0000

It’s clear the incoming government has ironing out to do – and Brussels may once again have to brace for the fallout of a hesitant German vote.

EU-Thailand trade talks resume as Spain worries about tuna sector

Sofia Sanchez Manzanaro — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:46:22 +0000

Alfonso Rueda, president of the government of Galicia, said he would fight to prevent the liberalisation of tuna imports as part of the free trade agreement.

Bridging the bio-based policy gap: from bioeconomy vision to action

Alkistis Damianakou — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:00:42 +0000

In this article, Katarina Molin highlights that while the EU’s bioeconomy strategy has driven progress in research and innovation, it has fallen short in creating market demand for bio-based solutions. As the EU prepares to revise its strategy, she underscores the urgent need for legislative measures to support the growth of bio-based plastics and chemicals. To stay competitive and advance sustainability goals, Europe must introduce mandatory targets and market incentives that drive the transition away from fossil-based materials.

NO PALM OIL: The deception behind the misleading labels

Alkistis Damianakou — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:00:26 +0000

Widespread "No Palm Oil" labels are misleading and overlook Palm Oil’s industry’s efficiency and sustainability measures. Within a EU's food labelling framework flawed and leading consumers to confusion, it is high time for these deceptive claims to be overcome.

Transparency essential for developing trustworthy AI, says Gürtler

Brian Maguire — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:10:21 +0000

As Europe pursues innovation and competitiveness in AI, should AI be structured around human rights and sustainability; and does AI’s employment impact matter? Paula Gürtler deploys a moral compass.

The make-or-break moment for EU industry

Laurine Augere — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 06:00:36 +0000

As Europe navigates a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, its industries and regional economies face unprecedented challenges. At Cerame-Unie, we are advocating for an inclusive industrial policy that supports all energy-intensive sectors, including multi-site businesses structures and SMEs, which are strategic to ensure long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the EU economy.

Strengthening Transatlantic Ties through Innovation and Technology: A Vision for the Future, Actions for 2025

Alkistis Damianakou — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:00:24 +0000

As the premier advocate for the global technology sector, ITI will explore The Digital Imperative: Europe's Path to Innovation, Security, and Growth in partnership with Euractiv on 12 March. Register here.

Action Plan for European Aluminium: Strategic Metal, Strategic Action

Laurine Augere — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:00:14 +0000

Aluminium is a strategic raw material for the EU’s green transition and a key enabler for critical sectors such as automotive, aerospace, construction, packaging, and clean energy technologies. NATO has also classified aluminium as a defence-critical raw material, highlighting its significance in defence applications.

German business renews call to review EU sustainability reporting rules

Jasper Steinlein — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 17:20:54 +0000

Rather than a path to sustainability, CSRD implementation is perceived as a burden on business.

Berlin’s agricultural global forum shines spotlight on bioeconomy

Angelo Di Mambro — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:52:56 +0000

Momentum for biomass is growing across the EU, including at industry level.

Declining European plastic production: A threat to sustainability

Amanda Rosa Juan Webb — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:00:52 +0000

The European plastics production decline threatens sustainability, circularity, and competitiveness. Key factors include cheaper imports, regulatory uncertainty, and oversupply. Urgent policy actions, like simplified regulations, investment support, and energy grid updates, are vital to secure jobs, autonomy, and environmental goals.

ECB paper highlights shortcomings of EU’s green finance rules

Bárbara Machado — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:54:50 +0000

The EU must ramp up investment, potentially by an extra €558 billion a year, or fail to meet its 2030 climate ambitions, the paper published by the ECB reads.

ACCA at United Nations COPs 2024: Representing accounting bodies on climate and nature

Maria Polynaki — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:26 +0000

2024 has been a year of COPs and calls to action on sustainability. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has played a pivotal role in engaging business and policy makers on the importance of accountants in a just transition to a sustainable future.

Organic Farming and Procurement: Driving EU Food Systems Forward

Maria Polynaki — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 09:00:04 +0000

This article explores the recent EU commissioner hearings and a landmark event emphasizing organic agriculture and public food procurement as pivotal for sustainable food systems, highlighting the Brussels Declaration's call for minimum standards and simplified procurement to drive food system transformation.

24/7 Carbon-free energy matching – the game-changer of corporates’ sustainability

Maria Polynaki — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 11:00:58 +0000

A year ago, I highlighted 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) hourly matching as the future of corporate energy procurement. Today it is steadily emerging in Europe with new buyers joining in beyond the traditional Big Tech trailblazers, Google and Microsoft. Now it’s time to take it mainstream.

Transformative financing: Advancing sustainable agrifood systems for resilient future

Angelo Di Mambro — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:48:21 +0000

Realising the full potential of sustainable agriculture requires significant investment. Specifically, global climate finance flows to the sector must increase by a factor of 40.

The Role of the European Algae Biomass Association: Pioneering a Sustainable Future

Asia Corsano — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:00:03 +0000

The European Algae Biomass Association (EABA) plays a pivotal role in advancing the algae sector across Europe, serving as a crucial platform for collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.

Embracing Citizens in Europe’s Urban Transformation: A Path to a Just and Green Transition

Asia Corsano — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:00:23 +0000

As we approach a new five-year term for the European Parliament and European Commission, the urgency of including citizens in urban transformation has never been clearer.

From Fossil Fuels to the Bioeconomy: The Case for Biobased Plastics

Alkistis Damianakou — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:50 +0000

Biobased plastics may not be the first thing that comes to mind when discussing the bioeconomy. However, detaching our economy from fossil fuels won't happen if we don't develop alternative sources of feedstock for plastics. Katarina Molin from Braskem, argues why biobased plastics are critical to Europe’s circular economy and climate neutrality goals, and outline key policy actions needed to accelerate this transition.

Fibre-Based Packaging Supporting a Sustainable and Competitive EU

Maria Polynaki — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:00:06 +0000

Fibre-based packaging supports the EU’s sustainability goals with a high recycling rate and reduced CO2 emissions. It advances a circular economy, boosts competitiveness, and contributes to food security. Clear regulations and innovation incentives are essential for a sustainable, resilient future.

Top deforestation drivers could dodge ‘high risk’ tag under EU benchmarking

Sofia Sanchez Manzanaro — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:56:49 +0000

Recently published documents show that major deforestation drivers may avoid being labelled 'high risk' by the EU, as the Commission will instead focus on countries sanctioned by the UN Security Council or the EU.

Towards a sustainable, resilient and innovative EU food system

Maria Polynaki — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 10:00:01 +0000

EU Specialty Food Ingredients, the voice of over 200 manufacturers of specialty food ingredients, calls upon the European Commission Presidency to clearly define its ambitions within the forthcoming "Vision for Agriculture and Food" publication.

Germany’s Buschmann wants to re-open EU sustainability reporting rules negotiations

Chris Powers — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:39:14 +0000

Germany’s Justice Minister wants to reopen negotiations on the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) one day after Germany and 16 other EU countries, received a yellow card from the Commission for missing deadlines to transpose the rules.

Digital technologies can propel Europe through its sustainable industrial transformation

Siofra Gilmore — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:00:26 +0000

For 177 years, Siemens has been creating technologies to transform the everyday, for everyone. Inspired by this mission, Siemens is passionately committed to being a vital force that can turn the challenges Europe is facing into opportunities – by leveraging and accelerating the green and digital transition to foster EU competitiveness.

EU Vision Paper – our industry priorities for the EU term 2024-2029

Marco Venosta — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:00:10 +0000

A more circular, resource-efficient economy is a top EU policy priority. Explore the EU Vision Paper for the European steel packaging industry, learn how we are turning this vision into reality, and discover our key priorities for the 2024-2029 term.

The Significance and Limitations of Sustainability Certification from ISCC’s Perspective

Ian Teunissen Van Manen — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 05:00:52 +0000

In today's fast-evolving global economy, the urgency for sustainable growth that integrates social and environmental protection has never been greater.

EU officials pitch EU space law as a competitiveness driver

Théophane Hartmann — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:19:13 +0000

In a bid to cast the upcoming EU space law in a favourable light, Commission officials pitched it as a competitiveness driver for the continent's industry during the European Space Forum in Brussels.

ACCA EU 2024-2029: Three calls to action for a sustainable and competitive Future for Europe

Maria Polynaki — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 10:00:52 +0000

Drawing on our unique global membership, we at ACCA call on newly elected Members of the European Parliament to champion sustainability, ethical AI, and talent development. These priorities are crucial for shaping a sustainable, competitive, and future-ready Europe.

Paving the Way: Fostering Affordable, Sustainable, and Safe Mobility for All

Maria Polynaki — Thu, 23 May 2024 05:00:46 +0000

The FIA European Bureau presents a comprehensive Manifesto for the future of mobility, addressing critical challenges and outlining pathways to accessible, sustainable, and safe transportation for all Europeans.

INITIATE: One project, different routes to decarbonise steel

Maria Polynaki — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:00:08 +0000

The INITIATE project proposes an innovative process to produce urea from residual gases of steel making and demonstrates the importance of industrial symbiosis between different industrial sectors (steel sector, chemical sector, agriculture).

Biosolutions: Strengthening Europe’s sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness

Christina Kamperi — Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:19 +0000

As Europe gears up for the forthcoming European Parliament elections, the European Biosolutions Coalition calls upon the EP candidates to make biosolutions a priority – they are nature’s own tools to enhance Europe’s sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness.

NGOs unite against EU’s rollback of green policies for the agrifood sector

Sofia Sanchez Manzanaro — Mon, 13 May 2024 04:45:59 +0000

Hundreds of civil society organisations decried the recent reversal of EU sustainability policies for the bloc’s agrifood sector in an open letter published on May 13.

Space agency director thinks EU space law would have GDPR-style outsized impact

Théophane Hartmann — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:03:07 +0000

A European space law would bring benefits that would ripple outside EU borders, Rodrigo da Costa, executive director at the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) said in an interview with Euractiv.

Essential for better health, why ignore the value of generic medicines?

Elena Kehl — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 10:00:34 +0000

Generic medicines extend life-saving treatments to European patients. Neglecting their broader societal value risks hindering care and healthcare system sustainability. In the study Beneath the Surface, we urge policymakers to adapt frameworks to support these medicines and boost access.

Carbon circularity requires EU action: lessons from 3 EU projects

Maria Polynaki — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:00:19 +0000

CO2SMOS, VIVALDI and CATCO2NVERS are EU-funded projects exploring ways to replace fossil-based carbon in chemicals with carbon emitted by installations processing biomass. Their recommendations? EU regulations must ensure that sustainable carbon is recognised as the easier, cheaper and necessary alternative.

Biomethane trade – Urgent need to make the Union Database right

Maria Polynaki — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 11:00:27 +0000

Following the adoption of the latest revision of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), the European Commission is ramping up its work on a critical tool for the renewable fuels industries: The Union Database (UDB).

Closing the Loop on PPWR: Member States and MEPs’ alignment could secure complementary solutions and an EU level-playing field.

Lorena Stile — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:00:16 +0000

After a year-long discussions, the EU Parliament and the Council of the EU reached their negotiating positions on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. SBFE shares its take on the likely outcome of reuse and refill obligations, as well as suggestions for enhancing recyclability.

The EU’s draft packaging rules are unfair. They can still be changed

Lorena Stile — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Ahead of the Environment Council seeking a General Approach on Packaging and Packaging Waste, The Brewers of Europe call on decision makers to level the playing field and ensure all alcoholic beverage sectors play by the same rules.

Circular Bioeconomy for the Future we want

Eva Rito — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 11:00:30 +0000

2014 was the year, when as European Commissioner for Environment, I have introduced the circular economy in the European policy space. It was not a new concept, or unknown to science, but it was new to policy makers. Today, in less than 10 years, the concept is well known and broadly accepted globally.

Recognising the complementarity of reuse and recycling is not lacking ambition

Eva Rito — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 13:00:28 +0000

Ahead of the plenary vote on the proposed Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), a large group of European and national associations across various sectors are expressing serious concerns regarding the approach to reuse adopted by the European Parliament’s Environment Committee (ENVI) on October 24.

European Hydrogen Week: what’s next for the hydrogen economy?

Eva Rito — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:00:43 +0000

Auctions have always been a friend to clean technology, with the cost of wind and solar projects in Europe dropping substantially over two decades thanks to bidding schemes that incentivise developers to ask for lower and lower levels of subsidies. It is clear that this same mechanism will help reduce green hydrogen prices.

Securing priority access to recyclates is a must in EU packaging plan

Eva Rito — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:00:59 +0000

In the pursuit of a more sustainable future, we, the European natural mineral waters and soft drinks industries are enhancing our packaging material efficiency, investing in lightweighting solutions and recyclability, and setting up efficient collection and recycling systems, such as Deposit and Return Systems (DRS).

CO2SMOS, VIVALDI and CATCONVERS: three projects for the green transition of chemical industries

Eva Rito — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 11:00:25 +0000

What if the products we know and use every day, such as packaging, textiles, cleaning products and cosmetics, could be more sustainable and help reduce pollution? Knowing that almost everything around us is made of carbon gives us the chance to look for more sustaible sources to substitute fossil carbons, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

New multimodal infrastructure in CEE region to help EU meet its transport goals

Lorena Stile — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 06:00:40 +0000

Apart from its potential to meet domestic demand, CPK has the potential to become a transport hub for the CEE countries playing an important role in boosting the connectivity and economic development in this part of Europe.

Let’s reshape EPR – for a game changing policy tool that supports prevention, reuse, separate collection and high-quality recycling

Eva Rito — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:00:38 +0000

EPR has been widely recognized and celebrated as being an effective way of making producers responsible for products (and their subsequent waste) they produce. On the one hand, based on a partnership between companies, municipalities and waste managers, it allows the financing of the public service of waste management by producers, while reinforcing its efficiency. On the other hand, it could generally encourage companies to enter a circular economy logic in the design of their products thanks to instruments like eco-modulation, thereby favoring products with a smaller environmental footprint.

EUSFI encourages the Commission to keep the momentum on sustainable food systems

Eva Rito — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:00:29 +0000

EU Specialty Food Ingredients emphasises that even with the current European Commission not proposing a Framework for Sustainable Food Systems, the food industry continues on its path towards building more sustainable and resilient food systems.

AI Act: EU countries mull options on fundamental rights, sustainability, workplace use

Luca Bertuzzi — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:43:45 +0000

The Spanish presidency circulated three discussion papers on Friday (13 October) to gather EU countries' feedback on key aspects of the AI law ahead of an upcoming negotiation session: fundamental rights, sustainability obligations and workplace decision-making.

ACCA Professional Insights – Public trust in tax

Eva Rito — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:00:48 +0000

If governments around the world are to rise to the challenges of climate change, the tax system will have a vital role to play, argues a new report.

Reusable packaging – maximising the benefits with an ambitious regulation

Eva Rito — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:20 +0000

The urgency of the environmental challenges confronting us has reached an unprecedented level, shining a glaring spotlight on the unsustainable nature of our current single-use packaging practices. Accepting the status quo is no longer an option and profound shift towards reusing packaging, to complement but also take us beyond the limitations of recycling, is imperative.

Seven progressive steps to a circular economy

Eva Rito — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 10:00:08 +0000

We could begin this opinion piece with a long explanation of the climate crisis. But you already know about it. You have read the warnings from climate bodies, and you have heard the speeches from world leaders. Sadly, you might even have witnessed the effects first hand – extreme heat, floods, drought, and wildfires are becoming ever more commonplace.

Europe’s Time to Act

Alexandra Brzozowski — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:30:51 +0000

Can the Europe of 2030 be peaceful, and prosperous and lead the world in sustainability? How to achieve that goal amid multiple crises, is the question EU leaders face at their summit this week, write Guillaume Faury, Micael Johansson and Jan Pie. Guillaume Faury is ASD president and CEO of Airbus. Micael Johansson is vice […]

Forced Labour: Fight or Flight?

Eva Rito — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:57 +0000

The Forced Labour Regulation seeks to eliminate forced labour in EU supply chains but may stop short of reducing forced labour globally. How can this Regulation avoid disengagement in riskier regions and instead incentivise addressing violations where they are identified?

Making Water a Top Priority in 2024: New Water Europe Manifesto

Eva Rito — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Europe increasingly faces water challenges. The European elections will be a key moment for shaping EU policies for the next five years and ensuring secure, sustainable and resilient water. It's time to call the European policymakers to adopt a Water-Smart strategy with strong political accountability.

How the EU can prevent its deforestation-free law from being a half measure

Annita Elissaiou — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 05:00:38 +0000

As the EU shifts sustainable agricultural practices for the protection of nature and biodiversity, it ought to still look out for the small-scale producers and their livelihoods, writes Jonathan Mockshell.

How the EU Packaging Waste Regulation can jumpstart the European Circular Economy…if done right

Lorena Stile — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 05:00:05 +0000

The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) can jumpstart the European circular economy and set the standard for managing packaging sustainably.

Towards global action on resource governance

Annita Elissaiou — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:13:56 +0000

With mining set to increase in the near future, its negative impact on vulnerable communities and ecosystems is bound to worsen. Governments need to ensure their protection from the activities of the mining industry, write Diego Marin and Jan Morrill.

CPK airport: Pioneering a new era of sustainable aviation in Poland

Lorena Stile — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 05:00:13 +0000

Aimed for net-zero operations on its launch in 2028 the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) airport in Poland is on its way to becoming a globally unique transport hub and a global model for sustainable aviation, integrating innovative technologies and sustainable practices.

What would a climate-friendly school system look like?

Nikolaus J. Kurmayer — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 04:48:03 +0000

An education system geared towards sustainability may look wholly different – including teaching climate science at a younger age, and involving students in projects so that they can enact change and co-construct solutions.

Innovation for Carbon Neutrality in the Cement Industry

Bogna Wiech — Tue, 30 May 2023 14:00:02 +0000

CEMBUREAU presents 'Innovation for Carbon Neutrality in the Cement Industry', a video that underlines the role of ground-breaking technologies in our journey towards carbon neutrality.

Rooted in EU cultural heritage, IFRA celebrates 50 years of fragrance

Mirko Paradiso — Mon, 22 May 2023 05:00:35 +0000

The International Fragrance Association’s (IFRA) mission is to promote the essential nature of fragrance – to maintain the highest standards of safety in the manufacture and use of fragrance materials – and to reinforce a sustainable, science-based fragrance ecosystem.

Business Aviation’s Bold Plan for Decarbonising the Skies

Elena Kehl — Mon, 15 May 2023 14:00:35 +0000

Business aviation has long been breaking boundaries to fly safer, further, and more efficiently. Our industry continues to think in revolutionary ways and a big part of that is with a bold, comprehensive plan for reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Innovation is the key to cutting packaging waste

Rachele Semeghini — Wed, 03 May 2023 05:00:49 +0000

Good regulation is critical to supporting business-driven innovation. This will ensure we have the conditions and support that enable Europe’s businesses, to invest, innovate and produce goods and services, which have the highest environmental, economic, and social benefits. Charles Héaulmé is President and Chief Executive Officer at Huhtamaki Today, Europe is discussing the proposed Packaging […]

‘Carbon neutral’ food claims challenged under new Commission rules

Natasha Foote — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:18:45 +0000

Food companies will be forced to justify claims such as carbon neutral under newly proposed plans from the European Commission as criticisms mount over the ‘rampant’ greenwashing found on supermarket shelves - but farmers warn plans must be fine-tuned for the specificities of the food sector.

Europe’s sustainable packaging rules should be bold – and fair

martinam — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 15:00:30 +0000

The Brewers of Europe are committed to sustainable packaging, have a strong track record and support the broad aims of the draft EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. However, this important legislation must be proportionate, well-targeted, non-discriminatory and coherent.

NGOs disown Commissioner’s ‘greenwashed’ flagship pigmeat report

Natasha Foote — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 14:22:24 +0000

Green groups are up in arms over a recent Commission-drafted report on the sustainability of the pigmeat sector, slamming it as a greenwashing exercise and disowning the conclusions which purportedly reflect the views of the expert group of which they were part.

A new revolution for EU fashion and textiles

martinam — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:00:27 +0000

With textiles and clothing among the most wasteful and polluting sectors in the EU, it’s time for a total rethink. Ahead of World Consumer Rights Day on 15 March, Virginjus Sinkevičius, EU Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, makes the case for a new beginning – from design and production to recycling and disposal.

Green Claims: clarity is needed to empower consumers and industry to make sustainable choices

martinam — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 06:00:07 +0000

Trustworthy and verifiable information is key to empower consumers in the sustainability transition, but regulatory clarity and policy coherence shall be guaranteed to reward progressive industries investing in greener solutions.

Smallholders from global south take the stage for inclusive CSDDD

Elena Kehl — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 11:00:05 +0000

The upcoming Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) must prioritise the interests and improved livelihoods of smallholder farmers worldwide, argues a coalition of international CSOs. The coalition proposes key adjustments to ensure the legislation makes an inclusive and sustainable impact.

German agriculture minister not ‘walking the talk’, climate groups say

JuliaD — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:39:55 +0000

A German alliance of environmental, agricultural and social organisations said that Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir is not walking the talk in making the agriculture and food sector more sustainable and socially just.

EU’s global push on food sustainability standards raises hackles in third countries

Natasha Foote — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 11:15:53 +0000

The EU’s ambition to hold third countries' food imports to its own sustainability standards has been met with consternation as stakeholders sounded the alarm in key trading partners, including Brazil and the US.

Empowering Consumers with Digital Services

Rachele Semeghini — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 11:00:01 +0000

The internet has become a key part of life for consumers. In the run-up to the holiday season, many of us book an online supermarket delivery slot, put gift choices on an online wishlist, stream Christmas films and music, or use an online calendar to manage family visits. Digital services add value in consumers’ lives, […]

Affordable and sustainable mobility is crucial for consumers

Elena Kehl — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 15:00:52 +0000

Consumers, especially the most vulnerable, risk facing the brunt of the green transition. The FIA discusses the aspects of how consumers can be affected, and where the EU and mobility stakeholders could step in.

Travel platforms want to move away from tourist areas in search for sustainability

Théo Bourgery-Gonse — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 11:55:58 +0000

As the European Commission and local authorities seek to manage over-tourism in populous European cities, short-term rental tech platforms are encouraging stays in more remote and rural areas.

Wholegrain-rich diet lifeline for struggling health systems, experts say

Natasha Foote — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 06:51:18 +0000

The promotion of a diet rich in whole grains should play a key part in strategies designed to safeguard struggling healthcare systems, experts have stressed, emphasising their role in the prevention of major non-communicable diseases.

Marketers promote industry standards to combat greenwashing

Molly Killeen — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:55:26 +0000

As greenwashing undermines trust in sustainability claims, marketers are looking into ways to self-regulate to promote credibility.

Sustainability-linked finance is key to accelerate decarbonisation efforts amid the energy crisis

martinam — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 10:00:20 +0000

Europe is facing an unprecedented challenge due to the alignment of a series of cascading crises with a profound impact on the economy and society. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine has hit the recovery plans and the combination of inflation and economic slowdown is a frightening prospect. Institutions, grappling with new emergencies and short-term measures, risk forgetting that the climate threat has not gone away and cannot be put on standby.

Cities look to a greener, digitalised future but key obstacles remain

Molly Killeen — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:48:01 +0000

68% of the world’s population is projected to live in urban areas by 2050, according to the UN, a significant increase on the 56% who did in 2020, but the rates at and success with which cities are incorporating digital technologies into their fabrics vary substantially.

Can specialty food ingredients help reduce food waste?

Bogna Wiech — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 10:00:25 +0000

On the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste it is essential for us to raise awareness about innovation & technologies that are critical to increasing the efficiency of food systems and to reducing food losses and waste. Specialty Food Ingredients can provide tools and solutions towards achieving these goals of minimizing food […]

We need a modern fiscal framework fit for climate change. Now.

Janos Allenbach-Ammann — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 09:11:07 +0000

The reform of the EU's fiscal rules should consider the need for investments and spending to achieve a just green transition that is currently being hampered by the austere fiscal rules, argues Isabelle Brachet.

Pushing The Boundaries of Sustainable Tourism: The People’s Climate Festival in Middelfart

Laura Junasová — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 14:00:49 +0000

The People’s Climate Festival or Klimafolkemødet, is an annual event in the Danish city of Middelfart, EDEN winner 2022, that is designed to put Climate first. The 3-day event is a call to action that puts climate at the top of the agenda.

WSR: missed opportunity for environment & social standards?

Laura Junasová — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 05:00:43 +0000

The EU should not export its waste challenges to third countries with lower treatment standards. The revision of the Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR) is the last chance to get things right while contributing to EU climate targets and saving secondary raw materials.