Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform Newsletter

On 5 July 2023, the European Commission proposed a new law to ensure the sustainable use of soils, protect and restore them, and address key threats to soils in the EU. This new law provides a legal framework to achieve healthy soils by 2050, aligning with the EU's Zero Pollution Ambition.

The Commission has adopted measures restricting the use of microplastics under the EU chemical legislation REACH. These measures support the Zero Pollution Action Plan 2030 target to reduce microplastics released into the environment by 30%.

A recent study revealed that in 2019, exposure to PM2.5 air pollution was responsible for one-fifth of global neonatal health disorders. The study highlights the urgent need for air pollution control strategies, emphasising the significance of initiatives such as the Zero Pollution Action Plan.

In September, the European Commission Directorate General for Environment’s monthly newsletter published a special issue on Farming with Nature. It covers pollution-related topics such as sustainable food production, innovative agriculture, ecosystem services for agriculture, European soil health and more. Read the online version and subscribe to the newsletter below.

Two forthcoming Horizon Europe calls for proposals supporting Zero Pollution will open on 17 October 2023, with the deadline for submission on 21 February 2024. Projects responding to the calls should contribute to outcomes aligned with the European Green Deal and the Zero Pollution Action Plan.

The Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform (ZPSP) with hold its fifth meeting on 9 November 2023 in Brussels, Belgium. The meeting is by invitation only, but there will be an option to follow it via the livestream link below on the day. For additional information click 'more'.

On 7 November 2023, the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform will host the third in its series of Zero Pollution Talks: "Zero Pollution and the Soil Monitoring Law”, focusing on the key role of local and regional authorities and stakeholders. Click below for additional information and event details.

On 24 and 25 January 2024, the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform will host a workshop to discuss the lessons learnt from the first and the preparations of the second Zero Pollution Monitoring and Outlook. Further information and details on participation will be added as they become available.