Frequently asked questions
What is ETAP?
The Environmental Technologies Action Plan (ETAP) is a co-operative initiative between the European Commission, Member States and industry adopted in 2004 and intended to overcome the barriers that hinder the development of environmental technologies. This is being achieved through a series of measures to promote eco-innovation and the take-up of environmental technologies.
What are environmental technologies?
Any technology whose use is less environmentally harmful than relevant alternatives. Examples include: renewable energies such as wind turbines, solar panels or wave power; water-treatment and waste-management systems; recycling - including collection, separation and treatment for re-use; clean transport making use of fuel cells, hybrid engines or biofuels; sustainable construction - from passive houses to environmentally-friendly materials; and exploitation of information and communications technology to improve energy use or reduce pollution from industrial processes.
What is ETAP intended to achieve?
Eco innovation is crucial to the economic competitiveness of Europe and our future well being. Eco-friendly technologies reduce pressure on the environment, help create new jobs and are good for business both by fostering innovation and cutting production costs.
What are ETAP’s priorities?
Priority is given to:
- getting inventions from the research laboratories to markets;
- improving market conditions, particularly by providing positive incentives such as a supportive regulatory framework and access to finance;
- acting globally with actions supporting developing countries and promoting foreign investment.
What are its key activities?
Key activities include:
- dissemination of the best environmental technologies and activities across Europe and worldwide;
- establishment of performance targets in co-operation with all the relevant stakeholders;
- setting up mechanisms to verify the validity of environmental technologies.
Who pays/funds ETAP activities?
Support depends on the activity:
- research and development - support for R&D projects can be obtained through the EU Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) for research;
- innovative projects and start-ups - support is available through the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP);
A wider use of environmental technologies and investments in eco-innovation can also be supported by the Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund .
How is ETAP implemented and monitored?
A High Level Working Group - established in 2004 with representatives from EU Member States and European Commission services - helps facilitate implementation. Participation of all stakeholders with mobilisation of relevant business and finance players and technology developers is encouraged through the European Forum on Eco-Innovation . This Forum provides a regular platform for discussion, debate and interaction.
Where can I find more information?
More information and news about EU and Member State policies, environmental technologies themselves and innovative projects can be found elsewhere on this website. Or sign up for our news service to be kept regularly informed.
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