| The EU Strategy for Energy System Integration |
The future of Europe's energy relies on an increasing share of geographically distributed renewable energy sources and requires flexible integration of multiple energy carriers, while maintaining resource efficiency and avoiding pollution and biodiversity loss.
The strategy establishes a vision on how to accelerate the transition to a more integrated energy system that supports a climate-neutral economy at the lowest cost across all sectors.
This document proposes concrete policy and legislative measures at the EU level to gradually shape a new integrated energy system, while also respecting the diverse starting points of the Member States. |
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| The Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-Neutral Europe |
The Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-Neutral Europe complements the EU Strategy for Energy System Integration by presenting opportunities and necessary measures to scale up the use of hydrogen in an integrated energy system.
The Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the Commission's Communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, and the Committee of the Regions - A Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-Neutral Europe reasserts the ambition to accelerate the transition towards a sovereign, competitive, and climate-neutral economy, in a context where the European economy is strongly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (7).
The key role of clean hydrogen in creating a smarter, more integrated, and optimized sovereign energy system is emphasized, where all sectors can fully contribute to decarbonization. Clean hydrogen and its value chain can play an important role in balancing the fluctuations of renewable energy flows and supplying sectors that cannot be electrified. To harness this potential, Europe needs to establish a hydrogen-based economy. |
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| Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy |
The hydrogen-based strategy for a climate-neutral Europe complements the EU's energy system integration strategy by presenting opportunities and necessary measures for expanding the use of hydrogen within an integrated energy system.
Through the Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the Commission's Communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, and the Committee of the Regions - A hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral Europe the ambition to accelerate the transition towards a sovereign, competitive, and climate-neutral economy is reaffirmed in a context where the European economy is heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (7).
The key role of clean hydrogen in establishing a smarter, more integrated, and optimized energy system, where all sectors can fully contribute to decarbonization, is emphasized. Clean hydrogen and its value chain can play an important role in balancing the fluctuations of renewable energy flows and powering sectors that cannot be electrified. In order to harness this potential, Europe needs to establish a hydrogen-based economy. |
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| The Directive on the assessment and management of flood risks (2007/60/EC) |
Directive 2007/60/EC on the assessment and management of flood risks is the second cornerstone of European water legislation and aims to reduce the risks and negative consequences of floods in the Member States. The implementation tool of the Floods Directive, regulated by Article 7, is represented by the Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP), which is one of the components of quantitative water resource management. Its purpose is to establish measures, actions, solutions, and works to mitigate the potential negative effects of floods on human health, the environment, cultural heritage, and economic activities through both structural and non-structural measures. Furthermore, it aims to establish a framework for the assessment and management of flood risks in order to reduce the negative consequences for human health, the environment, cultural heritage, and economic activities associated with floods within the Community. |
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| The Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) |
The Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC - WFD) represents the fundamental European legal provision for the water sector, promoting the concept of ecosystem-based management and introducing new objectives for the protection of aquatic ecosystems. It ensures the sustainable use of water resources in the long term for the benefit of people, the economy, and the environment. The WFD incorporates the fundamental principles of integrated river basin management, bringing together ecological and economic aspects in water resource management activities.
The WFD establishes a program and timeline according to which Member States develop River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) by 2009 (the first planning cycle), which are then updated every 6 years. The Management Plans must identify all the actions that need to be taken within the river basin districts to achieve the objectives of the WFD. The main goal of the WFD is to achieve good ecological status for all water bodies by 2015. This overall objective encompasses objectives for good ecological and chemical status of surface waters, as well as good ecological potential and chemical status for heavily modified and artificial water bodies, and good chemical and quantitative status for groundwater. |
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| The new EU Forest Strategy for 2030 |
In the vision of the new EU Forest Strategy, forests are seen as a valuable resource for achieving the goals set for reducing emissions and mitigating climate change, while also contributing to the quality of life, local and rural development, and the European economy, through an approach that ensures sustainability of all interconnected components. Achieving the objectives of the new EU Forest Strategy is based on the scientific relevance of recent changes, the socio-economic context of forests, and the transition towards a circular economy. This vision encourages the sustainable use of forest services and products, with a focus on using wood as a material and fuel to replace or reduce the reliance on other products and services based on fossil fuels. The document describes the current challenges faced by forests at the European and international levels, particularly the alarming rate at which forests are being degraded in certain geographical areas due to natural disasters and human intervention. |
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| The Strategy is closely linked to the provisions of the European Green Deal and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. It recognizes the central and multifunctional role of forests and the contribution of foresters and the entire forest value chain in achieving a sustainable and climate-neutral economy by 2050. The Strategy also emphasizes the need to ensure that all ecosystems are restored, resilient, and adequately protected. |
The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030
The biodiversity crisis and the climate crisis are intrinsically linked. Climate change accelerates the destruction of the natural environment through droughts, floods, and wildfires, while the destruction and unsustainable exploitation of nature are key drivers of climate change. However, the solutions are equally interconnected. Nature is also the most powerful ally in combating climate change. Nature regulates the climate, and nature-based solutions such as protecting and restoring wetlands, peatlands, and coastal ecosystems, or sustainably managing marine areas, forests, grasslands, and agricultural soils, will be crucial for reducing emissions and adapting to climate change. Tree planting and the installation of green infrastructure will help cool urban areas and mitigate the impact of natural disasters. |
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| The New Urban Agenda of the EU |
The New Urban Agenda was adopted at the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in Quito, Ecuador, on October 20, 2016. It was approved by the United Nations General Assembly at its sixty-eighth plenary meeting of the seventy-first session, which took place on December 23, 2016. It represents a common vision for a better and more sustainable future. If properly planned and managed, urbanization can be a powerful tool for sustainable development, both in developing and developed countries. The global context shows that cities occupy approximately 2% of the total land area, yet they account for 70% of the economy (GDP), over 60% of global energy consumption, 70% of greenhouse gas emissions, and 70% of global waste.
The New Urban Agenda establishes standards and principles for the planning, construction, development, management, and improvement of urban areas across the five main pillars of implementation: national urban policies, urban legislation and regulations, urban planning and design, local economy and municipal finances, and local implementation. It serves as a resource for every level of government, from national to local, as well as for civil society organizations, the private sector, and others involved in urban development.
The New Urban Agenda incorporates a new recognition of the correlation between good urbanization and development. It emphasizes the links between proper urbanization and the creation of jobs, living opportunities, and improving quality of life, which should be included in every policy and urban renewal strategy. This further highlights the connection between the New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities. |
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| The Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy |
The Covenant of Mayors is the world's largest movement for climate and energy action, bringing together thousands of local administrations voluntarily committed to implementing the EU's climate and energy objectives. The Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy was launched in 2008 by the European Commission with the aim of involving and supporting mayors in achieving the energy and climate targets for 2020 (reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% compared to 1990 levels, ensuring 20% of energy comes from renewable sources, and increasing energy efficiency by 20%). The European Covenant of Mayors is now part of the Global Covenant of Mayors. The initiative now gathers over 10,000 local and regional authorities from 57 countries, building on the strengths of a global multi-stakeholder movement and the technical and methodological support provided by dedicated offices.
Currently, the main objective of the Covenant of Mayors is to align with the EU's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This is done through the launch of a new Chamber of National Ambassadors - the Green Pact at the local level, to support the implementation of the Covenant in each member state. Covenant members receive technical support and financial guidance to develop and implement energy and climate plans that contribute to keeping global temperature rise below 1.5℃, the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement on climate change. |
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| Living-in.eu - The European module for digital transformation in cities and communities. |
The purpose of this document is to encourage sustainable digital transformation in cities and communities in the EU through a shared European Pathway involving decision-makers at all levels of governance, along with organizations and networks of cities and communities of all sizes.
The main objectives are to identify and implement digital solutions that encompass smart urban mobility, energy efficiency, sustainable housing, digital public services, and civic governance. The widespread adoption and expansion of these solutions are essential to help European cities and communities achieve their climate objectives and reduce their environmental footprint, while also encouraging citizen participation and bringing prosperity to all types of businesses, including SMEs and startups.
Promoting the use of digital solutions that are agreed upon by regions, cities, and communities will contribute to bridging the digital divide and reducing inequalities, thus strengthening territorial cohesion.
The ultimate goal is the implementation and development of open, interoperable, cross-sectoral, and cross-border digital platforms as a means to accelerate digital transformation. |
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| The Smart Cities Challenge (ICC) |
The Smart Cities Challenge (ICC) is an initiative of the European Commission that brings together 136 cities to achieve smart, socially responsible, and sustainable growth through advanced technologies. The program lasts for 30 months (2020-2022) and builds upon the previous success of the Digital Cities Challenge, which helped 41 cities in the EU develop a strategic vision and an action plan for their digital transformations. The Smart Cities Challenge (ICC) is part of the broader support from the EU that contributes to the European Green Deal, an economy that works for people and a Europe fit for the digital age.
The Smart Cities Challenge (ICC) is a unique opportunity for developing cities in the EU to join a community that leverages advanced technologies to address the pandemic crisis and rebuild their economies while moving towards environmentally-friendly, smart, and sustainable growth. This will help cities improve the quality of life and create new opportunities for their business communities. |
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| Eurocities’ strategic framework 2020-2030 |
Eurocities este a major network of large European cities that work together to ensure a good quality of life for all. Eurocities includes over 200 cities from 38 countries, representing 130 million people. |
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| Cohesion Policy 2021-2027 |
The European Commission (EC) published, at the end of 2018, the legislative package on post-2020 cohesion policy, complementing the general proposals regarding the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027.
The EU cohesion policy contributes to strengthening economic, social, and territorial cohesion within the European Union. Its goal is to address imbalances between countries and regions. It provides the policy priorities of the European Union, particularly the green and digital transition.
The main objectives of the Cohesion Policy for the period 2021-2027 are specifically focused on supporting public investments to achieve the goals of ecological and digital transition. |
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| Leipzig Charter on Sustainable European Cities |
The Leipzig Charter for Sustainable European Cities was adopted by the EU Council in 2007 and has played a significant role in introducing the concept of integrated urban development at the EU level. It has had a strong influence on the development of EU initiatives such as the Urban Agenda.
The principles of the Leipzig Charter refer to simultaneously considering the various aspects of urban policy - spatially and across sectors, as well as over time. It encourages the involvement of the general public in policy development and also focuses on disadvantaged neighborhoods in cities, prioritizing physical and social cohesion. |
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| The New European Bauhaus |
The New European Bauhaus is a creative and interdisciplinary initiative that provides a space for designing future ways of living at the intersection of art, culture, social inclusion, science, and technology. This initiative translates the European Green Deal into a cultural and creative dimension. It aims to accelerate the transformation of various economic sectors such as construction and textile industry to provide all citizens with access to circular and low-carbon goods. It encompasses a range of policy actions and funding opportunities.
All the proposed initiatives stem from the premise of the participatory nature of the European Green Deal. All citizens should have the opportunity to express their views on the spaces they want to live in, contribute to the green and digital transformation, and equally benefit from the multiple advantages of these processes. |
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| EU Communication - Europe, the world's number one tourist destination - a new policy framework for tourism in Europe |
The EU Communication - Europe, the world's number one tourist destination - a new policy framework for tourism in Europe was adopted in June 2010. This communication established a new strategy and action plan for tourism in the EU.
The EU policy aims to maintain Europe's position as a leading destination while maximizing the industry's contribution to growth and employment. It also promotes cooperation among EU countries, particularly through the exchange of best practices. The EU's role in tourism is one of support and coordination to complement the actions of the member states. |
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| EU Strategy for Sustainable Tourism |
The European Parliament's resolution of 25 March 2021 on the development of an EU strategy for sustainable tourism (2020/2038(INI)) highlights that 27 million people are employed directly or indirectly in the tourism sector, accounting for 11.2% of total employment in the EU. Tourism contributed 10.3% to the European Union's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019.
The data presented by the Transport Committee to support the adoption of an EU strategy for sustainable tourism also indicate that the tourism and transport sectors have been among the most affected by COVID-19. At least 6 million jobs, including those of seasonal workers and individuals in vulnerable situations, are at risk in the EU. The pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, leading to job losses and economic challenges.
Furthermore, travel restrictions implemented in response to the pandemic continue to heavily impact global and European tourism. The most recent data indicates a 70% decrease in the number of international tourist arrivals in 2020. These restrictions have resulted in a significant decline in tourism activity, causing disruptions to the industry and economic consequences. |
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| Agenda for a Sustainable and Competitive European Tourism |
Global trends and priorities are shifting: now more than ever, the major challenge for the tourism sector is to remain competitive while also being sustainable, recognizing that long-term competitiveness depends on sustainability. Particularly, climate change is currently a critical aspect that also requires the tourism industry to reduce its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, and destinations to adapt to the demand and types of tourism they offer. |
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| For a new integrated EU tourism policy: Europe - 27 countries, one destination |
Europe needs a renewed and more comprehensive approach to tourism. The EU Commission should make a new communication to the European Parliament and Council proposing an integrated tourism policy for Europe as a whole. This communication will consist of an updated strategy for 2010 and an action plan for the next 10 years. |
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| European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21st Century |
The ministers of the signatory states of the European Cultural Convention met in April 2015, adopting the Namur Declaration to promote a common and unifying approach to the management of cultural heritage.
In February 2017, the Deputy Ministers adopted Recommendation CM/Rec(2017)1 to Member States on the European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21st Century, which was officially launched in Limassol, Cyprus, in April 2017. |
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| European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage |
During the Göteborg Leaders' Summit in November 2017, heads of state and government reaffirmed their commitment to a Union that preserves its cultural heritage and promotes cultural diversity. In December 2017, the European Council emphasized that the European Year of Cultural Heritage represented a crucial opportunity to raise awareness among citizens about the social and economic importance of culture and heritage.
The announcement of the European Framework for Action in May 2018 led to a widespread mobilization of stakeholders.
The Call to Action from Berlin in June 2018, developed by Europa Nostra, the German Cultural Heritage Committee, and the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, calls for the establishment of an ambitious European Action Plan for Cultural Heritage as a sustainable legacy of the European Year of Cultural Heritage. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach and integration with all European policy agendas and priorities. According to their perspective, the action plan should align with the Council of Europe's Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society (the Faro Convention) and the European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage in the 21st Century.
The Berlin Call also emphasizes the need for a strong external dimension within the action plan, in line with the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Berlin Call was signed by Ministers of Culture, Members of the European Parliament, and numerous stakeholders, including organizations and individuals. |
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| Comone Agriculture Policy |
The European model of agriculture is based on a competitive, market-oriented sector that also fulfills other public functions, such as environmental protection, providing affordable housing for rural populations, and integrating agriculture with the environment and forestry. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has shifted its focus from direct subsidies to agriculture (Pillar I of the CAP) towards the integrated development of rural economies and environmental protection (Pillar II of the CAP).
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is among the first common policies adopted by the European Union - at that time, the European Economic Community. Its genesis was a reaction to the food issues that followed World War II.
The institutions involved in the development and management of Common Agricultural Policy measures are: the Council of the European Union for Agriculture and Fisheries, the European Parliament, and the European Commission. The legislative power lies with the Council, while the Parliament has an advisory role. In the Council, decisions are made by qualified majority. In exercising its advisory prerogatives, the Parliament is assisted by the AGRI Committee, a standing body. The European Commission has two major responsibilities, namely legislative initiative and implementation of the CAP. The Commission is supported by Committees, which are of three types: Committees for the management of common market organizations (one for each common market organization), Regulatory Committees (with an advisory role in the development of horizontal legislation), and Advisory Committees (composed of representatives of interest groups). Food safety falls within the remit of the European Food Safety Authority, an independent organization established in January 2002, with an advisory role to the Commission. |
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