Von der Leyen to EU Parliament: “Forward with the Green Deal, but with a new industrial pact, reduction of emissions by 90% by 2040”
Quick Read
Background:
At her State of the Union address on September 16, 2020, contact Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented a roadmap for the EU to become climate neutral by 2050, a goal that involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990 levels. This ambitious target is known as the contact Green Deal (EGD).
Von der Leyen’s Proposal:
During her speech, President von der Leyen called on the contact Parliament to support a new industrial pact as part of the Green Deal. According to her, this agreement will help Europe lead in the global race for green technologies and ensure its economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic while reducing emissions by 55% by 2030. Moreover, she emphasized that the EU must aim for an even more ambitious goal of a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
Key Points:
- Green Deal: A European Union initiative to transform the EU into a climate-neutral continent by 2050.
- New Industrial Pact: A proposed agreement to help Europe lead in the global race for green technologies, support economic recovery and reduce emissions.
- 55% Emissions Reduction: The current EU goal for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
- 90% Emissions Reduction: Von der Leyen’s proposed ambitious target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
Implications:
Von der Leyen’s proposal for a new industrial pact as part of the European Green Deal reflects the EU’s commitment to global climate action. If implemented, this agreement could lead to significant economic opportunities and job creation in the renewable energy sector, while ensuring Europe’s competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market. It also underlines the EU’s determination to set ambitious climate targets and inspire other countries to follow suit.
European Commission President’s Address to the EU Parliament: A Balancing Act between Green Deal and Industrial Competitiveness
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen‘s first State of the Union address to the European Parliament on September 16, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the EU’s environmental policy landscape. In her speech, President von der Leyen unveiled the European Green Deal (EGD), a comprehensive policy initiative aimed at making Europe carbon neutral by 2050. With
zero-carbon emissions,
modern infrastructure, and an economy based on renewable resources, the EGD is expected to create thousands of new jobs and stimulate sustainable economic growth. However, it also poses a challenge:
balancing environmental goals with industrial competitiveness.
President von der Leyen‘s ambitious plan involves a
€1 trillion investment
in the EU’s green transition over the next decade. This includes upgrading infrastructure, promoting circular economy practices, and investing in renewable energy sources. The Green Deal encompasses all sectors of the economy, from agriculture to transport, and promises to make Europe a global leader in climate action.
However, the
transformation
required to meet the Green Deal’s goals will not be without challenges. The EU must ensure that its industries remain globally competitive while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is where the balancing act comes in.
Industrial competitiveness
is crucial to ensure that Europe’s industries can compete on the global stage while contributing to climate action. In her address, President von der Leyen acknowledged this challenge and stated that “we cannot leave our industries behind in the green transition.” To address this, she proposed a Just Transition Fund to help support communities and workers affected by the transformation.
Table 1: Key Green Deal Initiatives
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| European Green Deal | A comprehensive policy initiative to make Europe carbon neutral by 2050. |
| Zero-Emission Mobility | Transforming the transport sector to become carbon neutral. |
| Circular Economy | Promoting the reuse, repair, and recycling of resources to reduce waste. |
| Biodiversity Protection | Protecting and restoring Europe’s natural habitats. |
| Climate Adaptation | Preparing for the impacts of climate change and reducing vulnerability. |
To achieve this balance, the European Commission will need to work closely with EU member states and stakeholders. The success of the Green Deal depends on their cooperation and commitment to the vision of a sustainable European economy.
The Green Deal: A Renewed Commitment to the Environment
Description of the European Green Deal as a “new growth strategy” for Europe:
The European Green Deal (EGD) is more than just an environmental policy; it’s a new growth strategy for Europe. The EGD aims to transform the EU’s economy into one that is sustainable, circular, and carbon-neutral by 2050. This transition involves investing in key areas such as:
Renewable Energy:
The EU intends to increase its renewable energy capacity, with a goal of reaching at least 32% share by 2030 and beyond.
Sustainable Agriculture:
The EU will support farmers to transition to more sustainable farming practices, focusing on organic farming and reducing the use of pesticides.
Circular Economy:
The EU will encourage the production and consumption of recycled goods, aiming for a circular economy where waste is minimized.
Explanation of the EU’s commitment to meeting the Paris Agreement targets:
The European Union is committed to meeting the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. This includes:
Emissions Reduction:
The EU is targeting a reduction of emissions by at least 40% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The EU is also aiming for a net-zero greenhouse gas emission economy by 2050, with the European Climate Law making this legally binding.
Increasing the EU’s climate ambition:
The European Union has committed to increasing its climate ambition over time, with the European Green Deal serving as a key part of this effort. The EU continues to work towards enhancing its emissions reduction targets and strengthening its climate policies in line with the latest science and global developments.
I Industrial Transformation and the New Industrial Pact
Recognition of the need for a just transition in Europe’s industrial sector
Europe recognizes the necessity for a just transition in its industrial sector as the continent embarks on the green transformation. This transition will affect many workers and communities, making it crucial to provide adequate support for those impacted. The European Union is committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive transition, focusing on the well-being of workers, their skills development, and the creation of new jobs. Moreover, communities that have historically relied on industries with high carbon emissions need support for economic diversification and social cohesion.
Description of the new industrial pact as an integral part of the Green Deal
The new industrial pact is a vital component of Europe’s Green Deal, aiming to transform European industries into globally competitive players in the green economy. The pact emphasizes cooperation between EU countries, the private sector, and civil society in achieving these objectives. It is essential that European industries maintain their competitiveness while making the necessary transition to a sustainable economy, ensuring long-term growth and job creation.
Ensuring competitiveness while transitioning
The new industrial pact acknowledges that industries must remain competitive during the green transformation to secure their long-term future. European industries will benefit from continued support, enabling them to adapt and innovate while making the transition towards sustainability.
Encouraging cooperation
Collaboration between EU countries, the private sector, and civil society is crucial to achieving a successful industrial transition. By working together, these stakeholders can share knowledge, resources, and best practices, ultimately contributing to the creation of an innovative and sustainable industrial ecosystem in Europe.
Examples of initiatives under the new industrial pact
Various initiatives have been launched under the new industrial pact to support industries in becoming more resource-efficient, circular, and sustainable. Some of these initiatives include:
Investment in research and innovation for green technologies and industries
The European Union is investing heavily in research and innovation to develop new green technologies and industries. This investment will not only help Europe maintain its industrial competitiveness but also contribute significantly to the global fight against climate change.
Supporting EU industries in becoming more resource-efficient, circular, and sustainable
The new industrial pact includes numerous initiatives to help EU industries adopt more resource-efficient, circular, and sustainable practices. This support will enable industries to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining competitiveness in the global market.
Promoting industrial symbiosis and closed-loop systems
Industrial symbiosis and closed-loop systems are essential components of the circular economy. The new industrial pact supports these initiatives, enabling industries to reduce waste, optimize resource usage, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable industrial ecosystem in Europe.
Encouraging green public procurement and circular business models
European governments, businesses, and organizations are being encouraged to adopt green public procurement practices and implement circular business models. This shift towards sustainability will help reduce the environmental impact of industries while also contributing to long-term economic growth and job creation.
Conclusion
Recap of the Green Deal’s Environmental Goals and Industrial Transformation Aspects
The European Green Deal, a comprehensive policy initiative by the European Commission, aims to make Europe carbon neutral by 2050. This transformative agenda includes a set of environmental objectives such as zero-emission mobility, circular economy, biodiversity protection, and climate adaptation. Moreover, it emphasizes the need for industrial transformation through innovation, investment, and modernization to ensure Europe’s industries remain competitive in a decarbonized world.
Emphasis on the Need for Cooperation between EU Countries, the European Commission, and Various Stakeholders
To achieve these ambitious goals, it is crucial that all EU countries, the European Commission, and various stakeholders including businesses, workers, and civil society, collaborate closely. By working together, we can ensure a just and inclusive transition that leaves no one behind. Cooperation will be essential in sharing best practices, investing in green technologies, and creating the necessary legislative frameworks to support this transition.
Call to Action for the EU Parliament to Support the Green Deal and New Industrial Pact
The European Parliament plays a critical role in this transition. It is essential that the EU Parliament supports the Green Deal and the new industrial pact to ensure their successful implementation. This includes providing the necessary financial resources, creating an enabling legislative framework, and engaging in constructive dialogue with various stakeholders to address concerns and create consensus.
Final Thoughts on the Importance of Taking Decisive Action to Create a More Sustainable Future for Europe and the World
The environmental challenges we face today are significant, but they also present an opportunity. By taking decisive action to implement the European Green Deal and create a new industrial pact, we can address climate change, create jobs, and enhance Europe’s global competitiveness. Moreover, by leading the way in sustainable development, Europe can inspire other countries to follow suit, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for the world.
