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29/01/2024

DG ENV International Updates

Joint Declaration on Sustainable Water Management signed by EU and Egypt | Dubai, 9 December 2023 (28/01/2024)

On 9 December 2023, Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Virginijus Sinkevičius on behalf of the EU and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Arab Republic of Egypt Hani Sewilam signed a Joint Declaration in the margins of COP28, establishing a sustainable water partnership.

Zero Pollution Stakeholder Workshop: "Zero Pollution Monitoring and Outlook" (24/01/2024)

During this workshop, the European Commission’s DG for the Environment (DG ENV), along with the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the European Environment Agency (EEA), will present the results and lessons learned from the first edition, and preparations for the forthcoming second edition of the Zero Pollution Monitoring and Outlook.

23rd Meeting of the Contracting Parties of the Barcelona Convention (COP 23) | Portoroz, 4-8 December 2023 (28/01/2024)

The Contracting Parties pledged radical shifts to decouple economic progress from environmental degradation. Initiatives included the establishment of a Regional Activity Centre on Climate Change, and efforts to conserve at least 30 % of coastal and marine areas by 2030. Decisions were also made on biodiversity, pollution, and waste management, reinforcing the region's commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28 UAE) | Dubai, 30 Nov - 12 Dec 2023 (28/01/2024)

Sharing the consensus that the climate crisis must be tackled now, the EU and its member states took a leading role in securing a global agreement to scale up climate ambition and finance, and to set new global energy goals.

Ukraine Green Recovery Conference | Vilnius, 28 November - 1 December 2023 (28/01/2024)

The conference offered policymakers, mayors and businesses an inspiring glimpse of a better future, of a future to be built on the solid foundations of a sustainable recovery, together with the EU.

Fourth EU Clean Air Forum | Rotterdam, 23 - 24 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

Discussions focused on how to further reduce and prevent air pollution. Particular attention was paid to the ongoing revision of EU rules on ambient air quality.

Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution | Nairobi, 13 - 19 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

Throughout INC-3, Members deliberated on the Chair’s Zero Draft, reviewed a compilation of text incorporating the perspectives of all Members, formulated a validated, co-facilitator merged text, and addressed outstanding issues.

The 21st session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC21) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) | Samarkand,13-17 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

Addressing global challenges such as climate change, food and water security, and forced migration hinges on halting and reversing rapid land loss worldwide, as determined during the five-day conference of the UNCCD.

77th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee | Geneva, 6 – 10 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

CITES's commitment to addressing issues beyond mere species listings has expanded its agenda, including the regulation of commercially exploited species like rosewood and sharks. The Standing Committee's (SC) dedication to tackling the impacts of trade regulations on livelihoods, animal welfare, zoonotic diseases, gender, and youth has led to an unprecedented growth in its responsibilities.

Fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-5) | Geneva, 30 October – 3 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

COP-5 Parties defined new dates to phase out mercury-added products including cosmetics, strengthened ties with Indigenous Peoples, advanced the first effectiveness evaluation of the Convention, and reached an agreement on a threshold for mercury waste.

Cairo Water Week | Cairo, 29 October - 2 November 2023 (28/01/2024)

The 6th edition of Cairo Water Week (CWW) was held under the theme "Action on Adaptation in the Water Sector for Sustainability." The European Union Delegation to Egypt co-organised this event together with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Fifth Annual Forum on Endocrine Disruptors | Brussels, 19 – 20 October 2023 (28/01/2024)

The Fifth Annual Forum on Endocrine Disruptors brought together scientists from universities and research centres and from public (local and national authorities and EU institutions as well) and private stakeholders (industry, NGOs) with expertise in the field of endocrine disruptors to exchange information and best practices, identify challenges and build synergies.

25th Meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical, and Technological Advice (SBSTTA 25) and the Resumed Second Part of the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 15) | Nairobi, 15 – 20 October 2023 (28/01/2024)

With groundbreaking resolutions and intense deliberations on climate change, invasive alien species, and sustainable wildlife management, the events underscored the urgent need for collaborative action.

European Business and Nature Summit 2023 | Milan, 11 – 12 October 2023 (28/01/2024)

The European Business and Nature Summit (EBNS) 2023 witnessed over 450 global leaders converging to accelerate sustainable business models aligned with biodiversity conservation, marking a pivotal moment for the international community committed to the green transition. The event showcased a roadmap for businesses to lead in shaping a net-zero, equitable, and nature-positive future.

Final Intergovernmental Consultations on Nature-based Solutions | Nairobi, 9 – 13 October 2023 (28/01/2024)

The intergovernmental consultations on nature-based solutions (NbS) convened by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2022, concluded with Co-Chairs’ recommendations to fortify the deployment of NbS for Sustainable Development and Summaries of Regional Consultations.

Bern III Conference on Cooperation among the Biodiversity-related Conventions for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal GBF (23/01/2024)

The Bern III Conference aims to contribute to the efficient and effective implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) by identifying opportunities to drive and coordinate an inclusive collaborative approach towards implementation of the framework while respecting the respective mandates of biodiversity-related conventions and other relevant multilateral agreements and United Nations.

Sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) (26/02/2024)

The overall theme of UNEA-6 is effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.

Visit of Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius to Ukraine on October 20, 2023 (28/01/2024)

The visit was marked by the Commissioner's active participation in the conference "United for Justice. United for Nature," co-organised by the Office of the Prosecutor General and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Ukraine. The Commissioner actively engaged in discussions with key Ukrainian officials, emphasising the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine's green recovery.

Three Basins Summit: Commissioner Sinkevičius signed roadmap for implementation of the EU-Congo Forest Partnership on October 27, 2023 (28/01/2024)

The new roadmap will result in a strengthened dialogue to address deforestation and forest degradation and work towards a sustainable forest economy.

Political agreement reached on the revision of the Industrial Emissions Directive (28/01/2024)

On 28 November 2023 political agreement was reached between the European Parliament and the Council strengthening the current provisions for emissions from industry and large intensive rearing farms. The updated law proposed by the Commission on 5 April 2022 will guide industrial investments necessary for Europe's transformation towards a cleaner, carbon neutral, more circular and competitive economy by 2050.

Proposal for a Regulation on a Forest Monitoring Framework (28/01/2024)

On 22 November 2023 the Commission proposed a Regulation on a forest monitoring framework with the objective to make European forests resilient through provision of open access to detailed, accurate and timely information on the status and trends of EU forests. It will strengthen the Forest Information System for Europe as common database on forest information in Europe.

Political agreement reached on new Regulation on waste shipments (28/01/2024)

On 16 November 2023, political agreement was reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the future new Regulation on waste shipments which will ensure that the EU takes greater responsibility for its waste and does not export its environmental challenges to third countries. The rules will also facilitate the use of waste as a resource. The new Regulation is a contribution to the goal of the European Green Deal of reducing pollution and advancing the circular economy.

Political agreement reached on new Environmental Crime Directive (28/01/2024)

On 16 November 2023 political agreement was reached between European Parliament and the Council on the protection of the environment through criminal law. Proposed by the Commission in December 2021, the new Directive will improve the effectiveness of criminal law enforcement and help achieve European Green Deal objectives by fighting against the most serious environmental offences which can have devastating effects on both the environment and human health.

Political agreement reached on Nature Restoration Law (28/01/2024)

On 9 November 2023 political agreement was reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the new Nature Restoration Law. The new legislation proposed by the Commission on 22 June 2022 aims to restore ecosystems, habitats and species across the EU’s land and sea areas, in order to enable the long-term and sustained recovery of biodiverse and resilient nature, contribute to achieving the EU’s climate mitigation and climate adaptation objectives, and to meet international commitments. It is the EU's key contribution to the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at the Convention on Biological Diversity COP15 in Montréal in December 2023.

Proposal of measures to reduce micro plastic pollution from plastic pellets (28/01/2024)

On 16 October 2023, the Commission proposed for the first time measures to prevent micro plastic pollution from the unintentional release of plastic pellets. The aim is to ensure that all operators handling pellets in the EU take the necessary precautionary measures.

17/10/2023

DG ENV International Updates

Our Baltic Conference | Palanga, 29 September 2023 (15/10/2023)

The Conference focused on how to reduce the pressure from fisheries and the input of pollutants, litter and contaminants, including pharmaceuticals. It aimed to boost commitment to the already existing goals in EU legislation in that area and to pave the way to further commitments and new actions to tackle these problems.

5th International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) | Bonn, 25 - 29 September 2023 (15/10/2023)

ICCM5 convened from 25-29 September 2023 in Bonn. The main task of the Conference was to adopt a “beyond 2020” chemicals and waste global policy framework instrument based on the recommendations of the Intersessional Process.

IP4.3 – Intersessional Process on SAICM and the sound management of chemicals and waste beyond 2020 | Bonn, 23 - 24 September 2023 (15/10/2023)

The final meeting of the 4th Intersessional Process on the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) was held to finalize the preparations and recommendations for the upcoming 5th session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5).

UN Summits Week | New York, 18 - 26 September 2023 (15/10/2023)

During the General Debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) world leaders convened for two Summits at UN Headquarters in New York under the overall theme of accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and on climate change. Other high-level meetings during the week were devoted to global health issues, financing for development and the preparation of the 2024 Summit for the Future.

Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) Focal Points meeting | Istanbul, 12 - 15 September 2023 (15/10/2023)

MAP Focal Points meetings constitute a crucial milestone in the two-year cycle of the work of UNEP/MAP. This meeting was essential in preparing for the 23rd Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention (COP 23) in December 2023.

G20: 4th Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) and Environment and Climate Ministers meeting under India’s G20 Presidency | Chennai, 26 - 28 July 2023 (15/10/2023)

The meeting, chaired by the Indian Minister of Environment Shri Bhupender Yadav, was attended by 41 Ministers and 225 delegates representing G20 member countries, who discussed key challenges in areas of Land and Biodiversity, Blue Economy, Water Resource Management, and Circular Economy.

UNEP Global Consultation on Issues of Concern | Geneva, 11 - 12 July 2023 (15/10/2023)

This event was convened to discuss priorities of further work and further potential international action on issues of concern posing risks to human health and the environment.

7th Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health (7MCEH) | Budapest, 5 - 7 July 2023 (15/10/2023)

Health ministers and officials from across the WHO European Region, convening in Hungary, have unanimously adopted the Budapest Declaration to address pressing health challenges stemming from climate change, environmental pollution, biodiversity depletion, and land degradation.

Final Intergovernmental Consultations on Nature-based Solutions (09/10/2023)

The final round of intergovernmental regional and global consultations on nature-based solutions will be in-person at the United Nations Office of Nairobi.

Fifth Annual Forum on Endocrine Disruptors (19/10/2023)

The Forum is an annual event and brings together scientists and public and private stakeholders with expertise on endocrine disruptors to exchange information and best practices, identify challenges and build synergies.

Cairo Water Week (29/10/2023)

Cairo Water Week (#CWW2023), recognised as the premier international forum for water issues, returns for its sixth edition.

77th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee (06/11/2023)

The Standing Committee will dive into the pressing topics of wildlife conservation, international trade in endangered species and global biodiversity protection.

21st session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC21) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) (13/11/2023)

Consultations of affected country Parties of the Convention’s regional implementation annexes for Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Northern Mediterranean and Central and Eastern Europe in preparation for CRIC 21 will be convened on 12 November 2023, at the Silk Road Samarkand Congress Center.

Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution (13/11/2023)

The third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, will be delving deep into solutions to curb plastic pollution, safeguard marine life, and create a cleaner, healthier world for all.

Fourth EU Clean Air Forum (2023) (23/11/2023)

The fourth Clean Air Forum will bring together clean air stakeholders and interested parties from across the European Union including competent authorities of the Member States at all relevant levels, the Commission, industry, civil society, and the scientific community for several days of intense dialogue on main clean air issues.

Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28 UAE) (30/11/2023)

It has been 7 years since the Paris Agreement, and we have 7 more years to reach our 2030 goals. COP UAE will be the moment to take stock of our progress and confront the facts.

Mediterranean Action Plan Barcelona Convention meeting (04/12/2023)

The 23rd Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the 'Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean (Barcelona Convention) and its Protocols,' to be held in Slovenia, will assess the adoption of the Mediterranean Strategy for the Prevention of, Preparedness, and Response to Marine Pollution from Ships (2022-2031), referred to as 'the Mediterranean Strategy (2022-2031).

Commissioner's Sinkevičius’ successful Mission to Colombia, for the Pre-Amazon Summit (16/10/2023)

Commissioner Sinkevičius undertook an important mission to Leticia, Colombia, from 7th to 8th July 2023, marking the EU's active participation in the high-level segment of the Pre-Amazon Summit, known formally as the "Technical-Scientific Meeting." This event was organised by the Colombian government as a crucial step toward the upcoming Amazon Summit scheduled to take place in Belém, Brazil, on 8th-9th August 2023.

Soil Monitoring Law (16/10/2023)

On 5th July 2023, the EU proposed a new Soil Monitoring Law to protect and restore soils and ensure that they are used sustainably.

Proposal for Waste Framework Directive Revision - Textile Waste (16/10/2023)

On 5 July 2023 the Commission proposed a targeted amendment of the Waste Framework Directive, with a focus on textiles waste. The proposal aims to bring about a more circular and sustainable management of textile waste, in line with the vision of the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles.

Proposed Regulation on circularity requirements for vehicle design and on management of end-of-life vehicles (16/10/2023)

The Regulation proposed on 13 July 2023 will replace two existing Directives: Directive 2000/53/EC on end-of-life vehicles and Directive 2005/64/EC on the type-approval of motor vehicles with regard to their reusability, recyclability and recoverability.

Zero pollution: Commission proposal to ban all remaining intentional uses of mercury in the EU (16/10/2023)

On 14 July 2023, the European Commission adopted a proposal to revise the Mercury Regulation to protect EU citizens and the environment from toxic mercury.

17/07/2023

DG ENV International Updates

OSPAR Commission meeting | Oslo, 26-30 June 2023 (10/07/2023)

Contracting Parties agreed to extend its largest Marine Protected Area to include the seabed and a number of additional species and habitats, such as coral gardens and deep-sea sharks.

94th Meeting of the Bureau of the Barcelona Convention | Izola, 20-21 June 2023 (10/07/2023)

Participants reviewed progress and set priorities for environmental protection in the Mediterranean region.

EC-UNEP High-Level Meeting | Brussels, 19 June 2023 (10/07/2023)

The meeting was opened by Commissioner Sinkevicius and Executive Director of UNEP, Inger Andersen, who both praised the past year for the achievements on multilateral fora, stressed the convergence of priorities (notably as per the European Green Deal and UNEP’s Mid-Term Strategy 2022-2025) and reiterated the wish to step up collaboration.

OECD Annual Ministerial Council Meeting (MCM) | Paris, 7 - 8 June (07/07/2023)

OECD ministers and members discussed the theme of "Securing a Resilient Future: Shared Values and Global Partnerships", addressing global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, climate change, economic resilience, innovative technologies for net-zero economies, energy futures, and OECD outreach.

Green Week 2023 | Brussels, 3 - 11 June 2023 (07/07/2023)

Under the theme "Delivering a net-zero world," EU Green Week 2023 provided a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration in the pursuit of environmental sustainability.

World Circular Economy Forum | Helsinki, 30 May - 2 June 2023 (07/07/2023)

The WCEF 2023 conference put nature, youth and finance into the spotlight. Many of the more than 150 speakers emphasised that there are already viable circular solutions out there – now we simply need to scale them up.

Second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution (INC-2) | Paris, 29 May - 2 June 2023 (07/07/2023)

The meeting, after a difficult start with controversial debates about rules of procedure, eventually adopted a mandate for the chair of the INC to develop and submit to INC 3 a Zero Draft of the instrument based on the work of the Contact Groups at INC-2, and identified a list of issues that would require more technical work in support of the negotiations towards a legally binding instrument.

4th meeting of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Working Group on Environment and Climate Change I Barcelona, 24 May 2023 (07/07/2023)

Member countries of the Working Group and different key stakeholders met to foster progress on the 2nd UfM Ministerial Declaration on Environment and Climate Change action, adopted in Cairo in 2021.

Third Meeting of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) | Mumbai, 21 - 23 May 2023 (07/07/2023)

The ECSWG meeting, held under India's G20 Presidency, focused on collaborative efforts to arresting land degradation, promoting a circular economy, and giving impetus to the blue economy. Each day of the meeting was dedicated to a specific theme from these priority areas, ensuring in-depth discussions and comprehensive exploration of strategies and solutions.

18th UN Forum on Forests (UNFF18) | New York, 8 - 12 May 2023 (07/07/2023)

The UNFF18 held technical discussions on the implementation of the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) 2017–2030 and on the interlinkages between the Global Forest Goals, the Sustainable Development Goals, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and other international forest-related developments.

LAC-EU Ministerial Meeting on Environment and Climate Change in Costa Rica | San Jose, 5 May 2023 (07/07/2023)

The European Union, Latin America and Caribbean step up cooperation on environment and climate action policies to tackle to tackle the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. They agreed to promote a transition towards low carbon, circular and clean economies where nature is protected and restored.

Triple COP: Basel Convention COP16, Rotterdam Convention COP11, and Stockholm Convention COP11 | Geneva, 1 - 12 May 2023 (07/07/2023)

The 2023 meetings of the Conferences of the Parties to the three conventions were held under the theme ‘Accelerating action: Targets for the sound management of chemicals and waste’. The meetings were organised back-to-back with several jointly sessions and decisions adopted aimed at strengthening the protection of human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes.

G7 Ministers’ Meeting on Climate, Energy, and Environment 2023 | Sapporo, 15 - 16 April 2023 (07/07/2023)

The G7 Ministers’ meeting in Sapporo marked a significant milestone in international efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

7th Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health (10/07/2023)

The Seventh Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health will define the future environment and health priorities and commitments for the WHO European Region, with a focus on addressing the health dimensions of the triple environmental crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution.

UNEP Global Consultation on Issues of Concern (11/07/2023)

Face-to-face global consultation with UNEP Member States and key stakeholders on priorities for further work and potential further international action to reduce or eliminate the risks associated with the chemicals and waste issues posing risks to human health and the environment. A summary of views will be drafted for consideration at the sixth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6).

MAP Focal Points meeting (12/09/2023)

The meeting will be held to prepare for COP23 in December. Some key issues to be discussed include: biodiversity and ecosystems; land and sea-based pollution; and regional measures on green and circular businesses, sustainable products and consumption.

IP4.3 – Intersessional process on SAICM and the sound management of chemicals and waste beyond 2020 (23/09/2023)

This and previous meetings support stakeholders in their efforts to elaborate the future arrangements of the Strategic Approach and the sound management of chemicals and waste beyond 2020 for consideration and adoption at the next session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), which will take place from 25 to 29 September.

5th International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) (25/09/2023)

High‑level international forum for multi‑stakeholder and multi-sectoral discussion and exchange of experience on chemicals management issues with the participation of non‑governmental organisations.

Commissioner Sinkevičius's follow-up visit to Brazil: Strengthening environmental sustainability and climate action cooperation | 2 May 2023 (10/07/2023)

Commissioner Sinkevičius engaged with key Brazilian authorities and stakeholders to advance the shared agenda of environmental sustainability and climate action. The mission achieved significant milestones and set the stage for enhanced cooperation between the EU and Brazil.

Communication from the Commission on the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) “Save bees and farmers! Towards a bee-friendly agriculture for a healthy environment”, 5 April 2023 (10/07/2023)

In the Communication the Commission welcomes the initiative and acknowledges the importance of the ECI, in particular as the interlinked crises of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss constitute growing challenges for Europe's agriculture and food security.

Regulation on deforestation-free products adopted | 31 May 2023 (10/07/2023)

On 31 May 2023 the Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010 was eventually adopted. The new EU rules are to guarantee that the products EU citizens consume do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide. It entered into force on 29 June 2023.

20/04/2023

DG ENV International Updates

EU–Chile meeting on High-level Dialogue (HLD) on climate change, environment and green sustainability | Online, 28 March 2023 (17/04/2023)

The meeting was the first exchange between EU institutions (DG ENV, DG CLIMA, EEAS, EU Delegation in Chile) and Chilean authorities (Division for Environment and Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mission of Chile to the European Union) on the EU’s written proposal regarding the establishment a High-Level Dialogue (HLD) on Climate Change, Environment and Green Sustainability.

UN Water Conference | New York, 22-24 March 2023 (17/04/2023)

Forty-six years after the last major UN water conference, the international community convened a historic meeting in New York. The objectives were to advance efforts to provide safe water and sanitation for humanity to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The conference concluded with the agreement to establish a UN Special Envoy for Water, renewed political momentum, and approximately 700 voluntary commitments and pledges from many stakeholders.

One Forest Summit | Libreville, 1-2 March 2023 (17/04/2023)

One Forest Summit concludes with a plan to promote sustainable forestry and climate action.

7th EU-Central Asia High-level Conference on Environment and Water | Rome, 22-24 February 2023 (17/04/2023)

The Conference provided an opportunity for the EU to reiterate its strong commitment to the Central Asia (CA) region in tackling climate change and restoring the environment. The parties expressed their wish to step up EU–CA cooperation, as well as CA intraregional cooperation in this area.

Thirteenth meeting of the Open-ended Working Group of the Basel Convention (OEWG-13) | Geneva, 21-23 February 2023 (17/04/2023)

The thirteenth meeting of the OEWG focused on items in its work programme deemed to be of high or medium priority, including: consideration of recommendations to improve the Strategic Framework; development draft recommendations to improve functioning of Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure; consideration and further development of technical guidelines, e.g. those on persistent organic pollutants (POPs), plastic waste and waste lead-acid batteries; consideration of the need to update existing guidance, technical guidelines and factsheets in order to reflect adjustments consequential to the adoption of the e-waste amendment; and progress in the work on further legal clarity.

Resumed 5th Session of the Intergovernmental Conference (IGC) on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) | New York, 20 February – 3 March 2023 (17/04/2023)

The session concluded the global negotiations on the Treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, also known as the Treaty of the High Seas, aiming to protect the ocean, tackle environmental degradation, fight climate change, and prevent biodiversity loss.

EU Arctic Forum & Indigenous Peoples' Dialogue | Nuuk, 8-9 February 2023 (17/04/2023)

The European Commission and the Government of Greenland jointly organized the EU Arctic Forum and Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogue in Nuuk, Greenland, hosted by high-level representatives from the European Commission, the EU External Action Service and the Government of Greenland. A broad range of Arctic stakeholders representing governments, international organisations, civil society, industry, research, indigenous and local communities participated.

5th International Marine Protected Areas Congress |Vancouver, 3-9 February 2023 (17/04/2023)

This regularly organized global Congress, which aims to engage marine conservation professionals, authority representatives, youth delegates, indigenous people, and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, experience and best practices on marine conservation efforts and address issues related to marine protected areas (MPAs), was hosted by the First Nations (Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh), the Province of British Columbia, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS).

Open Ended Working Group on a Science-Policy Panel on chemicals, waste and pollution | Bangkok and online, 30 January – 3 February 2023 (17/04/2023)

The ad hoc Open-ended Working Group on a Science-Policy Panel for Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution (OEWG 1.2) held its first resumed meeting to further develop a science-policy panel that will facilitate the exchange of information between scientists and policymakers on the most pressing issues of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.

19th EU-Japan High-level Dialogue on Environment | Online, 23 January 2023 (17/04/2023)

Japan and the European Commission held a very dynamic and productive meeting on three key environmental issues: biodiversity, circular economy and plastics, and pollution.

G7 Ministers’ Meeting on Climate, Energy, and Environment 2023 (15/04/2023)

In the spirit of the Paris Agreement, G7 Ministers of Climate, Energy and the Environment will discuss the global promotion of Green Transformation (GX) to ensure that the entire economic, social and industrial structure is driven by clean energy to pursue net zero, circular and nature positive economies in an integrated manner.

Triple COP: Basel Convention COP16, Rotterdam Convention COP11, and Stockholm Convention COP11 (01/05/2023)

The 2023 meetings of the Conferences of the Parties to the three conventions will be held under the theme ‘Accelerating action: Targets for the sound management of chemicals and waste’. The meetings will be organized back-to-back and will include joint sessions on joint issues.

Ministerial segment of INC-2 (27 May) and INC-2 on international instrument on plastic pollution (29-2 June) (27/05/2023)

The second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-2), will be preceded by regional consultations on 28 May 2023.

World Circular Economy Forum (30/05/2023)

WCEF 2023 will focus on finding circular solutions that can help our economies fit within the boundaries of nature. The event includes a number of sessions related to improving circularity globally and the Commission is involved in several, including the GACERE-led session on roadmaps and circular economy. This forum is co-organised by Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra and Nordic Innovation, with international partners.

Green Week 2023 (03/06/2023)

This annual event organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment creates an opportunity to debate and promote the European environmental policy.

EC-UNEP High-Level Meeting (19/06/2023)

The High-Level Meeting will take stock of key global events and developments on the global environment agenda in the course of the last year and review joint European Commission-UNEP efforts and initiatives in order to formulate actionable recommendations for further cooperation.

Green Claims: Proposal for a Directive on substantiating environmental claims (17/04/2023)

On 22 March 2023, the Commission proposed common criteria against greenwashing and misleading environmental claims.

Proposal for a Regulation on batteries and waste batteries (17/04/2023)

On 24 January the ENVI Committee of the European Parliament approved the final compromise text of the regulation on batteries which had been endorsed by the Permanent Representatives Committee meeting of 18 January 2023. A vote in the EP plenary session is scheduled for 24 May.

25/01/2023

DG ENV International Updates

Zero Pollution Stakeholder Conference | Brussels and online, 14 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Conference to discuss the first Zero Pollution Monitoring and Outlook 2022 brought together around 100 participants in person, from Member States, regional and municipal administrations, businesses, NGOs and academia, as well as about 400 people who connected to the live broadcast throughout the day.

45th Anniversary of EU-ASEAN relations | Brussels, 14 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

The first-ever summit between the leaders of EU and ASEAN member states marked 45 years of diplomatic relations. The meeting also addressed important sustainable development, climate and energy issues.

42nd session of the Executive Body of the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution | Geneva, 12-16 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

The main issue on the agenda was the conclusion of the review and evaluation of the amended Gothenburg Protocol (GP), which had been ongoing since 2020.

EU at COP15 Global Biodiversity Conference | Montreal and online, 7-19 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

The 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP15) was the biggest biodiversity conference in a decade. On 19 December 2022, world leaders adopted the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework with goals and targets to protect and restore nature.

World Circular Economy Forum | Kigali, 5-8 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

How can circular solutions be implemented to mitigate climate change and halt biodiversity loss? What are the most exciting solutions already making more out of what we have? How can international trade be a key enabler for the circular economy?

30th anniversary of the UNECE Convention on industrial accidents prevention | Geneva, 29 November – 1 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

The 12th meeting of the Conference of the Parties of the Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents (TEIA CoP-12) recognised the need to address emerging issues of concern for industrial safety, including energy transition and changes of energy sources, cybersecurity, Natech risks in view of wildfires from heatwaves, waste treatment and opportunities in relation to ore-sand and mine-tailing, and the Convention’s relation to these.

United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Intergovernmental Working Group on Droughts | Bonn and online, 29-30 November 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Mr Ibrahim Thiaw, in his opening remarks underlined the urgency and importance of addressing the drought holistically, as the world has never been so affected by dry spells as it is today. Therefore, the Intergovernmental Working Group on Droughts (IWG) is expected to provide further guidance and advice for the upcoming COP16 to move the global drought agenda.

1st Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-1) | Punta del Este and online, 28 November - 2 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

In a historic decision at the fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly in March 2022, Member States agreed to negotiate an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, setting an ambitious timeline to conclude negotiations in 2024.

42nd meeting of the Standing Committee to the Bern Convention | Strasbourg and online, 28 November - 2 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

Contracting Parties, observers, NGO representatives and experts discussed the outcomes of activities implemented throughout 2022, and activities planned for 2023. In particular, the Standing Committee discussed the Bern Convention´s contribution to the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.

CITES COP19 | Panama, 14-25 November 2022 (24/01/2023)

A total of 44 proposals were adopted to amend the Convention’s appendices, which list the species subject to trade restrictions. Of these, 13 have been submitted by the EU as the main proponent or as co-proponent: on marine species, reptiles, amphibians and tropical trees. Overall, the EU helps achieve stricter trade regulations for more than 500 species threatened by international trade.

58th Session of the Council of the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) | Yokohama, 7-11 November 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Council made four decisions, including one to endorse six project proposals, three of which received full funding to commence immediately.

XVII Conference of the Parties of the Alpine Convention and the Simplon Alliance | Brig, 27 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

Ministers of the environment or their representatives from the eight Alpine countries, as well as delegates from the European Commission, discussed the consequences of climate change on the hydrological cycle in the Alps, exploring key questions about drought management measures and concrete proposals to implement the Climate Action Plan 2.0 and the 2020 Water Declaration.

WTO Trade and Environment Week 2022 and Workshop on Circularity and Trade | Geneva and online, 17-21 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

This event was a forum for government officials, business representatives, international organizations, academics, and civil society to discuss ways to make global trade more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.

29th Plenary meeting of the International Resource Panel | Paris, 17-21 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

Enabling just transitions, enhancing resource efficiency, addressing sufficiency, and promoting the circular economy were among the key themes discussed at the in-person meeting of International Resource Panel (IRP).

4th ASEAN-EU High-level Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change | Cambodia, 6 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

Both sides exchanged on latest policy developments in their respective regions. ASEAN provided key updates on their cooperation on the environment and climate change, guided by the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework, while the EU shared information on the implementation of the European Green Deal and the envisioned development of programmes under the Green Team Europe Initiative.

9th Environment for Europe (EfE) Ministerial Conference | Nicosia, 5-7 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

At the Conference the 54 countries of the pan-European region committed to greening their economies and infrastructures and to intensify education for sustainable development.

26th Session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO26) | Rome, 3-7 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

COFO26 provided a platform for exchange and dialogue among participants and gave strategic direction for the future work of FAO in forestry.

Opening of the Green Economy Forum & Exhibition (GEFE) 2022 and meetings in Vietnam| 27-28 November 2022 (25/01/2023)

The objective of the mission was to attend and open, together with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, the first Green Economy Forum & Exhibition (GEFE) 2022, organised by the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) in Vietnam, and to have bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Chinh, the Minister for Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) Tran Hong Ha and the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) Le Minh Hoan.

Mission of Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius to Moldova I Chisinau, 25-26 November 2022 (25/01/2023)

The purpose of the visit was to discuss important issues of bilateral cooperation between the EU and the Republic of Moldova. Topics included: the critical energy situation, Moldova’s perspective as an EU candidate country, the main environmental challenges of the country, the European Green Deal and issues of regional cooperation.

Mission of Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius to Japan | 9-11 November 2022 (25/01/2023)

The mission took place in the context of a steady deepening of EU-Japan relations over the last years, with the conclusion of a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), then an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), followed by the 2021 Green Alliance and the 2022 Digital Partnership — Japan being the first country with which the EU signs each type of partnership.

Open Ended Working Group on a Science-Policy Panel on chemicals, waste and pollution (24/01/2023)

The OEWG will include Governments and regional economic integration organizations, and will be open to observers from United Nations entities, relevant multilateral agreements, other international instruments and intergovernmental bodies, including those who are members of the Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals, and stakeholder representatives.

55th session of the Implementation Committee to the Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context (Espoo Convention) (31/01/2023)

The Committee is expected to follow up on actions to be taken by the concerned Parties.

Thirteenth meeting of the Open-ended Working Group of the Basel Convention (OEWG-13) (21/02/2023)

Some of the topics to be discussed at OEWG-13 will be the strategic framework, the work to improve the operation of the prior informed consent procedure, as well as technical guidelines...

7th EU-Central Asia High-level Conference on Environment and Water, EU-Central Asia Platform on Environment (22/02/2023)

The conference will: a) present the results of the activities of the EU-Central Asia Platform for Environment and Water Cooperation and its Working Group on Environment and Climate Change (WGECC) since January 2019; b) identify priority areas for the EU-CA Platform for 2023-2025; c) discuss and agree on practical steps for enhancing policy dialogue and capacity development in the field of environment, climate change and water in Central Asia.

UN Water Conference (22/03/2023)

The 2023 Conference for the Midterm Comprehensive Review of Implementation of the UN Decade for Action on Water and Sanitation (2018-2028), known as the UN 2023 Water Conference, will include an opening and closing session, six plenary sessions, and five interactive dialogues, as well as side events organised by participants.

Green Week 2023 (03/06/2023)

This annual event organized by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment, creates an opportunity to debate and promote the European environmental policy. Next to a high-level event taking place in Brussels, it is also a festival of partner events that can be organised by any entity that is willing to take the European Green Deal messages across Europe, and beyond.

Preliminary deal reached on a new legislation on deforestation-free products, 6 December 2022 (24/01/2023)

On 6 December 2022, MEPs reached a preliminary agreement with EU governments on the proposed legislation to fight climate change and biodiversity loss, which will oblige companies to ensure that a series of products sold in the EU do not come from deforested land anywhere in the world.

Circular Economy package II, adopted 30 November 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Commission proposed new EU-wide rules on packaging, to tackle this constantly growing source of waste and to ensure reusable packaging options, eliminate unnecessary packaging, limit over packaging, and provide clear labels to support correct recycling. The proposals will put the packaging sector on track for climate neutrality by 2050.

Revised EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking, adopted on 11 November 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Commission has adopted a revised EU Action Plan to put an end to the lucrative global black market in illegal wildlife trade, which contributes to the depletion or extinction of entire species and furthers zoonotic diseases.

Zero Pollution Package, adopted on 26 October 2022 (24/01/2023)

The Commission proposed stronger rules on ambient air, surface and groundwater pollutants, and treatment of urban wastewater to ensure a stronger protection of air and water which are essential for the health of people and ecosystems.

19/10/2022

DG ENV International Updates

Eighth Meeting of the Parties to the African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement | Budapest, 26-30 September 2022 (14/10/2022)

Held under the theme “Strengthening Flyway Conservation in a Changing World”, AEWA’s MOP8 concluded with the adoption of 16 resolutions and new guidelines aiming to improve the conservation status of 255 migratory waterbirds listed under the UN-backed treaty.

Fourth Annual Forum on Endocrine Disruptors | Brussels, 21-22 September 2022 (14/10/2022)

The Forum brought together scientists, policy makers, public and private stakeholders with expertise on endocrine disruptors to exchange information and best practices, identify challenges and build synergies in order to inform the Commission’s reflections.

Eighteenth African Ministerial Conference on the Environment | Dakar, 12-16 September 2022 (13/10/2022)

Under the theme: “Securing people’s well-being and ensuring environmental sustainability in Africa”, the resumed 18th session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) focused on the need for people-centred post-Covid recovery with an emphasis on people’s well-being through environmentally friendly actions that create jobs and improve livelihoods.

G20 Joint Environment and Climate Ministers’ Meeting | Bali, 31 August 2022 (13/10/2022)

The G20 Environment and Climate Ministerial Meeting, where Commissioner Sinkevičius and EVP Timmermans represented the EU, discussed a variety of global issues, reaching agreement on some of them while a number of others remained controversial. The meeting ended with a Chair’s Summary of the discussions outlining the commitments on which “broad agreement” had been found.

Fourth meeting of the intersessional process considering the Strategic Approach and sound management of chemicals and waste beyond 2020 | Bucharest, 29 August – 2 September 2022 (13/10/2022)

Participants made progress on the outline for a future framework on chemicals and waste to guide global efforts for years to come, and agreed to reconvene in early 2023 for further deliberations to enable the framework’s adoption at the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) in September 2023.

High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development Session 2022 | New York, 5–15 July 2022 (13/10/2022)

The first in-person meeting of the HLPF in three years reviewed five SDGs in particular: SDGs 4 (quality education), 5 (gender equality), 14 (life below water), 15 (life on land), and 17 (partnerships for the Goals). Also discussed were the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic across all SDGs and the integrated, indivisible, and interlinked nature of the Goals.

Ninth session of the Plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) | Bonn, 3-9 July 2022 (13/10/2022)

The ninth session of the IPBES Plenary (IPBES-9) continued a trend of publishing high profile, high quality, comprehensive, and thorough assessments on a variety of biodiversity-related topics by adopting two new assessments – on sustainable use of wild species and on conceptualization of multiple values of nature and its benefits — and by laying the foundation for future work under the Platform’s Rolling Work Programme up to 2030 and its task forces.

Bilateral meetings of Commissioner Sinkevičius at the 18th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment | 12-16 September 2022 (14/10/2022)

Commissioner Sinkevičius also held six bilateral meetings focused on biodiversity, with the African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment; the Executive Director of the CBD Convention and the Ministers of Environment from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Morocco and Ghana. The latter, notably at understanding their positions and exchanging on the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) to be adopted at CBD COP 15 in December in Canada. These exchanges showed a wide variety of country realities, priorities and level of engagement on the CBD negotiations.

Commissioner Sinkevičius’ Mission to G20 in Indonesia and to Malaysia | 30 August - 3 September 2022 (14/10/2022)

In the margins of the G20 Ministerial meeting, the Commissioner had bilateral encounters with the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and environmental ministers from Australia, Egypt, Indonesia, South Korea, and Japan.

9th Environment for Europe (EfE) Ministerial Conference (05/10/2022)

This year, the Conference will focus on greening the economy in the pan-European region and applying circular economy principles to sustainable tourism.

68th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) (13/10/2022)

At IWC68, stakeholders will present and discuss the outcomes of IWC67 and move forward with the implementation of specific measures to regulate whaling and conserve whale stocks. These measures include catch limits (which may be zero as it the case for commercial whaling) by species and area, designating specified areas as whale sanctuaries, protection of calves and females accompanied by calves, and restrictions on hunting methods.

WTO Trade and Environment Week 2022 and Workshop on Circularity and Trade (17/10/2022)

The WTO Trade and Environment Week is a forum for government officials, business representatives, international organizations, academics, and civil society to discuss ways to make global trade more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.

29th Plenary meeting of the International Resource Panel (IRP28) (17/10/2022)

The IRP and its Steering Committee will review ongoing work, discuss its future projects, and celebrate the IRP’s 15th anniversary. The meeting is open to Panel members, Steering Committee members, Strategic Partners and invited observers.

European Business & Nature Summit (18/10/2022)

The 2022 Summit will be an important milestone leading up to the second part of the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in December 2022. It will strengthen the European ‘Business for Biodiversity movement’ and help the business community shape and prepare for these imminent changes.

G7 Workshop on Nature-based Solutions (20/10/2022)

The G7 Climate, Energy and Environment Ministers committed to mainstreaming, enhancing, and scaling up, across all sectors at home and abroad, the implementation of Nature-based-Solutions (NbS), to benefit biodiversity and climate. To transform commitments into action, this workshop provides a platform to enable the sharing of best practices and initiate an exchange of lessons learned on NbS implementation to create synergies and incentivise increased cooperation and action. A special focus will be placed on marine and coastal NbS, as the oceans are a priority of the German G7 Presidency.

XVII Conference of the Parties of the Alpine Convention and the Simplon Alliance (27/10/2022)

Parties of the framework convention for the protection and sustainable development of the Alpine region will meet to discuss the outcomes of the Multi-Annual Work Program 2017-2022 and launch the 2022-2027 programme. This will be in parallel with the Conference of The Environment and Transport Ministers of the Alpine Countries and the European Commissioners for the Environment and for Transport (Simplon Alliance).

58th Session of the Council of the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) (07/11/2022)

The International Tropical Timber Council is ITTO’s governing body. It meets once a year to discuss wide-ranging issues of interest to members, including those related to the legal trade of tropical timber and the sustainable management of tropical forests. Council sessions are open to official delegates and accredited observers.

27th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP27) (07/11/2022)

COP27 stands out from previous COPs. This year will mark 30 years since the UNFCCC was adopted and seven years since the Paris Agreement was agreed at COP21. With the tagline ‘Together for implementation’, it will be a critical test of whether the international process can respond to the increasing urgency of the situation.

G7 Workshop on Lead (09/11/2022)

The aim of the workshop will be to take stock of activities undertaken by G7 representatives and others to address lead pollution and develop future work and cooperation to reduce sources of lead in the environment and minimize exposure to it in developing countries and vulnerable communities.

19th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP19) (14/11/2022)

This year’s World Wildlife Conference is being asked to consider stricter trade regulations for nearly six hundred species of animals and plants believed to be under increased threat of extinction from international trade. In what is being seen as a barometer for the state of the world’s wildlife, just nine species are being recommended for less restrictive trade regulations.

9th meeting of the Working Group of the Parties to the Protocol on PRTRs (UNECE Kyiv Protocol on Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers) (24/11/2022)

Parties, other Member States and stakeholders will have an opportunity to share their experiences in implementing pollutant release and transfer registers, in particular, during agenda items on the development of the Protocol and on subregional and national activities.

1st meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-1) to develop a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution and Multi-stakeholder Forum (26/11/2022)

INC-1 is open to all States Members of the United Nations and members of United Nations specialised agencies, to regional economic integration organisations and to relevant regional and international instruments and initiatives and all stakeholders in the context of the mandate of the intergovernmental negotiating committee.

12th meeting of the Conference of the Parties of the Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents (TEIA COP12) (29/11/2022)

Among the highlights of this meeting are the celebration of the Convention’s thirtieth anniversary, a ‘UNECE/OECD Seminar on the effective management of technological risks of accidents triggered by natural hazards’, and the adoption of a Decision on Natech risk management in the Economic Commission for Europe region and beyond. Parties will also be invited to endorse a Roadmap for action for strengthening tailings safety in follow-up to the Decision 2020/1 on tailings safety taken at CoP-11.

42nd meeting of the Standing Committee to the Bern Convention (29/11/2022)

All Contracting Parties of the Bern Convention as well as observer states and national and international organisations, both governmental and non-governmental, will meet at the Council of Europe premises in Strasbourg.

World Circular Economy Forum (06/12/2022)

For the first time, WCEF2022 invites the world to Africa to build circular economy solutions. “With the youngest population in the world, the African continent can take a crucial role in the global transition towards circularity,” says Rwanda’s Minister of Environment Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya.

15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP 15) - Part Two (07/12/2022)

The conference will see the adoption of the post-2020 global biodiversity framework, which provides a strategic vision and a global roadmap for the conservation, protection, restoration and sustainable management of biodiversity and ecosystems for the next decade.

Zero Pollution Stakeholder Conference (14/12/2022)

The conference will focus on the first Zero Pollution Monitoring and Outlook, with a high-level session in the morning and parallel seminars in the afternoon. The draft programme and registration will be available soon.

Environmental Implementation Review 2022 | 8 September 2022 (14/10/2022)

The third edition of the Environmental Implementation Review based on 27 individual country reports draws conclusions on the current state of implementation of the EU environmental legislation in the Member States. Since its first edition in 2017 it has become a key reporting tool that supports environmental enforcement and raises awareness about the importance of implementing environmental rules, contributing to the overall objective to ensure good environmental outcomes for citizens, and to maintain a level playing field for businesses while creating opportunities for economic development.

Commission Recommendation for a Council Decision on the mandate for negotiations on a new multilateral environmental agreement on plastic pollution | 12 July 2022 (14/10/2022)

The Recommendation concerns a Council Decision authorising the opening of negotiations on behalf of the European Union for an international agreement on plastic pollution to be negotiated by an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) established by Resolution 5/14 of the Fifth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) held from 28 February to 2 March 2022.

2022 Strategic Foresight Report: Twinning the green and digital transitions in the new geopolitical context | 29 June 2022 (14/10/2022)

The 2022 Report addresses the current geopolitical shifts reinforcing the megatrends that are already affecting the EU, such as climate change and environmental degradation, digital hyper-connectivity and technological transformation alongside pressure on democracy and values, as well as shifts in the global order and demography. These geopolitical shifts will clearly affect Europe’s path to achieving fair green and digital transitions. Against this new geopolitical backdrop, the 2022 Report presents a forward-looking strategic reflection on the interactions between the green and digital transitions.

19/07/2022

DG ENV International Updates

2022 United Nations Ocean Conference | Lisbon, 27 June – 1 July 2022 (18/07/2022)

The second UN Ocean Conference convened on the basis of UN General Assembly resolution 73/292 (2019), with the overarching theme ‘Scaling up ocean action based on science and innovation for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Stocktaking, partnerships and solutions’, drew to a close with delegates adopting a Political Declaration entitled ‘Our Ocean, Our Future, Our Responsibility.’

3rd extraordinary session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Aarhus Convention, UNECE | Geneva, 23-24 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

Delegates discussed the main trends, challenges, and good practices for the protection of environmental defenders.

4th meeting of the Open-ended Working Group on the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework | Nairobi, 21-26 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

At the meeting, governments advanced and made progress on the text of the landmark agreement on the Global Biodiversity Framework to be finalized and adopted at the second part of CBD COP 15 relocated to be held in Montreal, Canada, in December 2022.

OSPAR Commission | Hybrid, Copenhagen, 20-24 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The OSPAR Commission adopted a roadmap to decide on actions to better protect the Arctic marine environment by 2025.

World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference 12 I Geneva, 12-17 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The Twelfth Ministerial Conference finally negotiated and adopted a package of measures on a series of key trade initiatives (“Geneva Package”) confirming the historical importance of the multilateral trading system and underlining the important role of the WTO in addressing the world’s most pressing issues at a time when global solutions are critical.

Meetings of the conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm conventions, “BRS triple COP” (COP15, COP10, COP10) - Part 2 (face to face session) | Hybrid, Geneva, 6-17 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

At the meeting, the European Union expressed concern that the planetary boundary for chemical pollution has been breached. On the Basel Convention, the EU endorsed the e-waste proposal and the adoption of technical guidelines for plastic waste. On the Rotterdam Convention, the EU urged parties to list all chemicals on the agenda, and on the Stockholm Convention, it called for establishing a compliance mechanism and meeting the targets on Polychlorinated Biphenyls.

78th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) | Virtual, 6-10 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee has reiterated its commitment to review and strengthen IMO’s strategy for the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping, with a view to adopting a revised strategy in mid-2023. Decisions on a number of important marine protection issues were taken at the session.

Dushanbe Water Process 2nd High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action ‘Water for Sustainable Development’ | Hybrid, Tajikistan, 6-8 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

Commissioner Sinkevičius called for managing water resources in a much more efficient and sustainable way to address water scarcity and to ensure access to water and sanitation, as human rights. He called on youth to be loud and daring and to act now for a more environmentally sustainable future.

Stockholm+50: A Healthy Planet for the Prosperity of All – Our Responsibility, Our Opportunity | Stockholm, 2-3 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the UN Conference on the Human Environment made a strong call for a bold and immediate systemic transition, assembling some 3000 delegates, including governments, business, civil society, science and well visible and assertive youth representatives.

EU Green Week 2022 | Hybrid, Brussels, 30 May to 5 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

Dedicated to the theme of making the European Green Deal real, Europe’s biggest annual event on environmental policy started with a hard question: Is there still a place for green policies in times where people struggle with high energy prices, supply chain disruptions that will lead to rising unemployment, high inflation and a war on Europe’s doorstep?

Open-Ended Working Group Preparatory Meeting for the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for a Global Agreement on Plastics | Dakar, 29 May - 1 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The meeting was held to make recommendations regarding the organisation of the work of the intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) for the development of a new legally binding global instrument on plastic pollution.

Meeting of the G7 ministers for climate, energy and environment | Berlin, 26-27 May 2022 (01/07/2022)

The Ministerial Meeting, in the environmental part of its agenda, addressed key issues of international environmental policy, such as the Global Biodiversity Framework, marine protected areas, living resources of Antarctica, global chemicals management, sustainable use of resources and sustainable supply chains, and led to important commitments of the G7 concerning these issues.

10th Plenary Assembly of the Global Soil Partnership | Virtual, 23-25 May 2022 (01/07/2022)

‘The role of soils and their fertility are more important than ever to ensure food security for all and enable the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable’, said Qu Dongyu, FAO Director-General, who urged participants to work to catalyse and scale up sustainable soil management solutions on the ground.

15th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification | Abidjan, 9-20 May 2022 (01/07/2022)

UNCCD COP15 adopted 38 decisions, including on tenure, migration and gender, that highlight the role of land in addressing multiple crises.

17th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF17) | New York, 9-13 May 2022 (01/07/2022)

Governments adopted a two-year roadmap of actions on forest policy issues, while recognising the importance of forests in combating climate change, biodiversity loss, and disaster risk reduction—and providing people with food, water, wood products, vital medicines, shelter, jobs, and security.

UNECE Special Session of the Committee on Environmental Policy (CEP) | Hybrid, Geneva, 9-12 May 2022 (30/06/2022)

The CEP special session was devoted to the preparation of the Ninth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference scheduled for 5-7 October 2022 in Nicosia; issues of the Environmental Performance Review Programme; and the presentation and exchange of views on the fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly of the United Nations Environment Programme.

XV World Forestry Congress | Seoul, 2-6 May 2022 (30/06/2022)

The congress provided a crucial opportunity for the global forest community to ensure that forests are an integral part of discussions and decisions within the 2030 Agenda, as well as the global COVID-19 recovery approaches.

Pan-European Regional Preparatory Meeting for the UN 2023 Water Conference | Geneva, 12-13 April 2022 (30/06/2022)

The meeting provided inputs on the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) regional priorities, challenges and good practices for the UN Secretary-General report and the United Nations 2023 Water Conference (22-24 March 2023, New York/ online).

36th UN-Water Meeting | Hybrid, Geneva, 7-8 April 2022 (30/06/2022)

The meeting offered members, partners, and observers for this UN interagency coordination mechanism the first opportunity to meet in person, after two years of online UN-Water sessions, and to discuss preparations for the UN 2023 Water Conference.

Commissioner Sinkevičius’ mission to Ukraine | 23-24 June 2022 (19/07/2022)

This visit took place on the occasion of Ukraine joining the LIFE programme for the environment and climate.

Commissioner Sinkevičius’ mission to Latin America | 25 April – 4 May 2022 (01/07/2022)

Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Virginijus Sinkevičius visited Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. The visit was part of a world tour to promote, inter alia, an ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework at COP15.

Upcoming mission | Southeast Asia, 28 August – 2 September 2022 (19/07/2022)

Commissioner Sinkevicius will participate in the G20 environmental and climate ministerial meeting scheduled for 31 August 2022 and will have talks with Indonesian and ASEAN officials, concluding the mission with a visit to Malaysia.

9th session of the Plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) (03/07/2022)

At IPBES 9, the Plenary will consider, among other items, the thematic assessment of the sustainable use of wild species,...

High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (05/07/2022)

The theme for the 2022 HLPF is ‘Building back better from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) while advancing the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’.

G20 Joint Environment and Climate Ministerial Meeting (31/08/2022)

The Summit will be the pinnacle of the G20 process and intense work carried out within the Ministerial Meetings, Working Groups, and Engagement Groups throughout the year.

8th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement (AEWA) (26/09/2022)

Items on the agenda are the budget for the next triennium (2023-2025) and the corresponding programme of work for the AEWA Secretariat, among others. Read more...

Green Deal: Pioneering proposals to restore Europe's nature by 2050 and halve pesticide use by 2030 | 22 June 2022 (01/07/2022)

The Commission adopted proposals for Regulations to restore damaged ecosystems and bring nature back across Europe, from agricultural land and seas to forests and urban environments, and to reduce the use and risk of chemical pesticides by 50 % by 2030.

Revision of the Industrial Emission Directive proposed | 5 April 2022 (01/07/2022)

The Commission published proposals to update and modernise the Industrial Emissions Directive, the EU’s key legislation to prevent and control pollution from large industries. Together with the revision of the IED, the Commission proposed to transform the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register into the EU Industrial Emissions Portal.

Roadmap on restrictions of hazardous chemicals proposed | 25 April 2022 (01/07/2022)

The Commission published a restrictions roadmap, an important step forward to provide detailed information on all ongoing work on future restrictions under the EU chemical legislation.

How to stop plastics from finding their way into the ocean? (01/07/2022)

The ‘Rethinking Plastics – Circular Economy Solutions to Marine Litter’ project supports the transition towards a circular economy for plastics to reduce plastic waste leakage into the sea and thus marine litter.

11/04/2022

DG ENV International Updates

Minamata Convention on Mercury COP4 (2nd segment) | Bali, 21-25 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

The second segment of the Minamata Convention on Mercury COP-4 closed with a global commitment to evaluate, expand and strengthen the efforts against toxic mercury.

CBD SBSTTA, SBI and OEWG meetings | Geneva, 13-29 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

Meetings of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) subsidiary bodies — Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) and Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI) — and the open-ended working group (OEWG) on the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) took place simultaneously.

9th World Water Forum | Dakar, 21-26 March 2022 (11/04/2022)

The Forum underlined the importance of water as a key development concern and a matter of peace and security for an increasing number of countries in light of enhanced water stress levels worldwide. The importance of transboundary cooperation, also as a tool for regional stability, featured very prominently. A new Team Europe Initiative to support transboundary water management in Africa with the African Union Commission was announced.

CITES 74th meeting of the Standing Committee | Lyon, 7-11 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

The 74th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES SC74) was a critical encounter to pave the way towards CITES’ Conference of the Parties (CoP19), the highest decision-making body, which this year will meet in Panama from November 14 to 25, 2022.

UNEA Special Session Commemorating UNEP@50 | Nairobi, 3-4 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

UNEA held a special session under the overall theme of ‘Strengthening UNEP for the implementation of the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.’

Fifth Resumed Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly | Hybrid, Nairobi, 28 February - 2 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

The resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2) convened under the theme ‘Strengthening Actions for Nature to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals’.

European Circular Economy Stakeholder Conference | Hybrid, Brussels, 1-2 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

The fifth edition of the Circular Economy Stakeholder Conference focused on making sustainable products the norm ahead of upcoming Commission proposals.

Biodiversity: 30 years of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and the LIFE programme | Strasbourg, 24-25 February 2022 (01/04/2022)

To mark 30 years of the Natura 2000 network and the LIFE programme, a conference was held at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, co-organised by the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission. At the conference, the Strasbourg Declaration was signed by Ministers to strengthen the implementation of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives.

Sixth European Union - African Union Summit: Two Unions, a joint vision for 2030 | Brussels, 17-18 February 2022 (01/04/2022)

The sixth European Union - African Union Summit, co-chaired by the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, and the President of Senegal and Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Macky Sall, brought a renewed alliance between both regions and an investment package Global Gateway of at least 150,000 million euros to accelerate the green transition.

Environmental sustainability at the heart of EU-Africa Business Forum 2022 | Hybrid, Brussels, 14-18 February 2022 (01/04/2022)

African and European business leaders and decision makers met and discussed opportunities for sustainable economic partnerships and investments at the 7th EU-Africa Business Forum (EABF22). More than 20 agreements to support Africa’s sustainable growth and decent jobs creation were signed or announced

One Ocean Summit: new steps strengthen EU leadership in protecting the ocean | Brest, 9-11 February 2022 (01/04/2022)

In an effort to mobilise the international community and take tangible action to mitigate pressures on the ocean, the “One Ocean Summit” was organised in the context of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union, with the support of the United Nations. Key EU initiatives were presented and the Brest Commitments for the Oceans were adopted.

First meeting of the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform | Hybrid, Brussels, 16 December 2022 (01/04/2022)

The members of the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform met for the first time to start developing the work programme for 2022-2024. The work programme will define the measures to be taken to implement the EU Zero Pollution Action Plan.

Launch of WTO Ministerial Statements on Trade, Environment and Sustainable Development, Plastic Pollution and Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform | Online, 15 December 2021 (01/04/2022)

The co-sponsors of three new World Trade Organisation (WTO) trade and environment initiatives, including the European Union, issued ministerial statements highlighting the work done thus far and outlining future steps.

17th Session of the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF 17) (09/05/2022)

The 17th session of the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF 17) will take place in May 2022 in New York. The session will include policy discussions on the implementation of the UN strategic plan for forests 2017–2030, including activities in support of the thematic priorities for the biennium 2021–2022.

15th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) (09/05/2022)

Negotiations will focus on the work of the 15th session of the Committee on Science and Technology (CST15), the 20th session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC20), and on other major issues included in the programme of work of the COP.

Meetings of the G7 environment, climate and energy ministers (25/05/2022)

The G7 ministers of the environment, climate and energy will discuss priorities under the “G7 Climate and Environment Track”, the sustainable use of resources, adapting to the impact of the climate crisis and environmentally sustainable supply chains.

Stockholm+50 International Meeting (02/06/2022)

Anchored in the Decade of Action, under the theme “Stockholm+50: a healthy planet for the prosperity of all – our responsibility, our opportunity,” this high-level meeting will follow months of consultations and discussions with individuals, communities, organizations and governments around the world.

Triple COP of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm conventions (06/06/2022)

The face-to-face segment of the 15th meeting of the COP to the Basel Convention, the 10th meeting of the COP to the Rotterdam Convention and the 10th meeting of the COP to the Stockholm Convention will be held over two weeks in June 2022, in Geneva.

OSPAR Commission meeting (20/06/2022)

The OSPAR Commission will meet June 20-24 in Copenhagen.

4th Meeting of the Open-ended Working Group on the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (21/06/2022)

The fourth meeting of the WG2020 has been scheduled, during the CBD Geneva Meetings 13-29 March 2022, to finalize the draft text for the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in preparation for the UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP 15).

Aarhus Convention: Third Extraordinary meeting of the Parties (23/06/2022)

On 23 and 24 June 2022 the Aarhus Convention will hold its Third Extraordinary meeting of the Parties in Geneva to select its first Special Rapporteur on Environmental Defenders after the establishment of a new Rapid Response Mechanism to this end at the Seventh Meeting of the Parties in October 2021.

Commission proposal to strengthen the protection of the environment through criminal law | 15 December 2021 (01/04/2022)

The Commission adopted a proposal for a new EU Directive to strengthen combating environmental crime and more effectively protect the environment by obliging Member States to take criminal law measures.

First Circular Economy Package including Regulation proposal on Sustainable Products and Sustainable Textiles Strategy | 30 March 2022 (01/04/2022)

The Commission presented a package of European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan proposals to make almost all physical goods on the EU market more friendly to the environment, circular, and energy efficient throughout their whole lifecycle from the design phase through to daily use, repurposing and end-of-life. Some proposals target all products being sold on the EU market, be they produced within or outside the EU.

Natura 2000 – Successful implementation of EU financed project in Serbia (01/04/2022)

At the end of 2021 the EU for Natura 2000 in Serbia project was successfully completed, a milestone on the way to providing the country’s contribution to the Natura 2000 network celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022. Admire wonderful potential Natura 2000 sites in Serbia identified by the project.

25/01/2022

DG ENV International updates

22nd Meeting of the Contracting Parties (COP22) to the Barcelona Convention and its Protocols | Antalya, 7-10 December 2021 (19/12/2021)

The meeting yielded the adoption of 18 decisions, including a landmark agreement on a sulphur emissions control area in the Mediterranean.

European Business and Nature Summit 2021| Online, 30 November - 1 December 2021 (19/12/2021)

Business leaders and policymakers met in late November and early December at the 2021 European Business and Nature Summit (EBNS), a high-level political and technical forum. They capitalised on the growing awareness that businesses impact and depend on nature and the ecosystem services it provides to align ambitions ahead of the in-person segment of the Convention on Biodiversity’s COP15.

First segment of the 4th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-4) | Online, 1-5 November 2021 (19/12/2021)

The first segment of the 4th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-4) took place online from 1 to 5 November, with over a thousand participants and an ambitious programme of work. It constructively considered important issues including evaluation, reporting, funding, increased international cooperation, and the listing of new products under the convention. A second in-person segment is planned for 21 - 25 March 2022 in Bali, Indonesia.

EU Arctic Forum | Brussels, 10-11 November 2021 (19/12/2021)

On 10-11 November the European Commission and the European External Action Service organised the EU Arctic Forum and the Annual Arctic Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogue. Over two days, ministers, ambassadors, European and local policy makers, representatives of Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, scientists, and university students discussed the situation in the Arctic and addressed the implementation of the updated EU Arctic Policy as expressed in the Joint Communication of 13 October 2021.

UNFCCC COP26: World Leaders Summit on ‘Action on Forests and Land Use’ | 2 November 2021 (19/12/2021)

The UNFCCC COP26 ‘Action on Forests and Land Use’ Summit brought together an unprecedented alliance of governments, companies, financial actors, and non-state leaders to raise ambitions to preserve the lungs of the world. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a €1 billion contribution from the European Union.

First segment of the 15th United Nations Conference on Biological Diversity (CBD COP 15) | Kunming and online, 11-15 October 2021 (19/12/2021)

The first segment of the Fifteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP15) took place in the Chinese city of Kunming and online from 11 to 15 October 2021. This was the biggest biodiversity conference in a decade. It included the participation of over 2900 delegates in Kunming, and 2400 connecting virtually.

UN Human Rights Council regular session | 13 September - 11 October 2021 (19/12/2021)

On 8 October 2021, at its 48th session, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) adopted Resolution 48/13, officially recognising for the first time that having a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a human right.

Union for the Mediterranean Ministerial Conference on Environment and Climate Action | Cairo, 4 October 2021 (19/12/2021)

Ministers from the 42 Member States of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), gathered in Cairo for the 2nd UfM Ministerial Conference on Environment and Climate Action, agreed on a common agenda to strengthen efforts in tackling the urgent multiple environmental and climate challenges faced by the Euro-Mediterranean region, including marine litter, sustainable waste management, biodiversity loss and air pollution.

High Level event “Transformative Action for Nature and People” on the sidelines of UNGA 76 | Online, 22 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

Game-changing new financing commitments for nature and people were announced at UNGA’s 76th High Level event “Transformative Action for Nature and People”. These included the reiteration by President von der Leyen of her announcement in her State of the Union address that the European Union will double its external funding for biodiversity in the next 7 years, as well as the biggest-ever philanthropic commitment to nature conservation.

ASEAN and EU hold 3rd High-Level Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change | Online, 16 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

Senior officials from ASEAN and the EU gathered virtually on 16 September for the third EU-ASEAN High-Level Dialogue (HLD) on Environment and Climate Change, which was hosted by Brunei Darussalam.

First GACERE high-level meeting | 14 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

The first high-level meeting of the Global Alliance on Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency (GACERE) took place on September 14, at the World Circular Economy Forum. The Alliance, a deliverable of the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan of March 2020, has the objective of advocating for a transition to the circular economy as a way of contributing to solving the climate, biodiversity and pollution crises.

5th World Circular Economy Forum | Canada, 13-15 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

Building on previous forums, WCEF2021 focused on the system level changes, or “game changers”, needed to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

One nature, one future: IUCN Congress | Marseille, 3-11 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

The IUCN World Conservation Congress in Marseille (3-11 September) closed with its members proclaiming a Manifesto, through which they committed to respecting the perspectives and harnessing the agency of all citizens – especially youth, indigenous peoples and local community leaders who play a central role in nature and biodiversity conservation –, and promoting investments in nature, the transition to a nature-positive economy and nature-based solutions.

Ministerial Conference on Marine Litter and Plastic Pollution | Geneva, 1-2 September 2021 (19/12/2021)

The Governments of Ecuador, Germany, Ghana and Vietnam jointly organised a Ministerial Conference to build momentum and the political will to advance a coherent global strategy to end marine litter and combat plastic pollution.

G20 developments (19/12/2021)

Read the main outcomes of the G20 Environment Ministers Meeting, held on July 22, and the G20 Leaders Summit organized from October 30 to 31, 2021.

Meetings of the conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm conventions, “BRS triple COP” (COP15, COP10, COP10) |Online, 26-30 July 2021 (18/12/2021)

Under the theme “Global Agreements for a Healthy Planet: Sound management of chemicals and waste”, the fifteenth meeting of the COP to the Basel Convention, the tenth meeting of the COP to the Rotterdam Convention and the tenth meeting of the COP to the Stockholm Convention (BRS triple COP) convened in a virtual format from 26 to 30 July 2021. A face-to-face segment will follow in Geneva, Switzerland, from 6 to 17 June 2022.

One Ocean Summit on the conservation of oceans’ biodiversity (09/02/2022)

This major international debate on the Ocean provides an opportunity to share knowledge and cross approaches, particularly by integrating climate change, in order to better anticipate oceanic crises and technological, scientific and environmental transformations.

Resumed session of UNEA-5 (UNEA-5.2), hybrid format (28/02/2022)

The overall theme for UNEA-5 is “Strengthening Actions for Nature to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals”. This highlights the pivotal role nature plays in our lives and in social, economic and environmental sustainable development.

UNEP@50: Special Session of the UN Environment Assembly, hybrid format (03/03/2022)

UNEP@50 is a time to reflect on the past and envision the future. It provides an opportunity to reinvigorate international cooperation and spur collective action to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.

CITES 74th meeting of the Standing Committee (07/03/2022)

The upcoming 74th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee will take place in the Metropolis of Lyon (France) and bring together members and observers to review strategic, policy and species-specific matters affecting the implementation of the Convention in preparation for the 19th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES (CoP19) to take place in November 2022 in Panama.

Meetings of the Convention on Biodiversity’s Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA), Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Open-Ended inter-sessional Working Group (OEWG) (13/03/2022)

The resumed sessions of the twenty-fourth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA 24), the third meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI 3) and the third meeting of the Open-ended Working Group on the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (WG2020-3), originally scheduled for 12-28 January 2022 are now planned to take place on 13-29 March 2022, at the International Conference Center Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland.

Revision of the Ivory Trade Guidance and adoption of regulations on wildlife trade | 16 December 2021 (21/12/2021)

The European Commission adopted its revised Guidance on the EU regime governing ivory trade on 16 December, as part of its commitment under the EU Biodiversity Strategy to take additional action against elephant poaching and ivory trafficking globally.

Political agreement on the 8th Environment Action Programme | 1 December 2021 (15/01/2022)

Provisional agreement was reached on 1 December 2021 between the European Parliament and the Council on the 8th Environment Action Programme (EAP). The 8th EAP anchors the Member States’ and Parliament’s commitment to environmental and climate action until 2030, guided by a long-term vision to 2050 of wellbeing for all, while staying within the planetary boundaries. The provisional agreement is now tabled for confirmation by the Parliament and the Council.

Soil Strategy | 17 November (21/12/2021)

The Strategy sets out concrete measures for the protection, restoration and sustainable use of soils.

Revision of the Waste Shipment Regulation | 17 November 2021 (21/12/2021)

The Commission delivers on circular economy and zero pollution ambitions by proposing stronger rules on waste exports to protect the environment and people’s health.

Proposed update of the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants to limit their concentration values in waste and materials | 28 October 2021 (21/12/2021)

The regulation will address the negative consequences of POPs in waste and in material that could be recovered from it.

Regulation proposal on deforestation-free supply chains: minimising the risk of deforestation and forest degradation associated with products placed on the EU market | 17 November 2021 (21/12/2021)

The proposed new rules intend to ensure that the products that EU citizens buy, use and consume on the EU market do not contribute to global deforestation and forest degradation.

EU Forest Strategy for 2030 | 14 July 2021 (20/12/2021)

The EU forest strategy for 2030 is one of the flagship initiatives of the European Green Deal and builds on the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030. The strategy recognises the central and multifunctional role of forests, and the contribution of foresters and the entire forest-based value chain to achieving prosperous rural areas, EU biodiversity objectives and a sustainable and climate neutral economy by 2050.

Still on time to see the EU photo exhibition on Mexico’s biodiversity (21/12/2021)

The exhibition consists of 25 original photographs showing species of wild, migratory or resident animals living within Mexican borders.

01/07/2021

ENV in action - international updates

World Environment Day 2021 (09/06/2021)

The World Environment Day on 5 June 2021 saw the launch of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. The scientists identified 2030 as the timeline for humanity’s last chance to counter ‘triple environmental emergency’ of biodiversity loss, climate disruption and pollution’. UNEP’s report ‘Becoming #GenerationRestoration: Ecosystem Restoration for People, Nature and Climate was also released on the day. It urges countries to deliver on their existing commitments to restore one billion hectares of degraded land and make similar commitments for marine and coastal areas.

News from CBD COP 15 preparations (25/05/2021)

The EU supports the introduction of the ‘national commitments’ concept in efforts to strengthen the mechanisms for monitoring and review of the future-post-2020 global biodiversity framework. On resource mobilization, the EU advocates for a broad approach, i.e. mobilizing public and private finance, phasing out harmful subsidies and seeking better synergies with the climate finance. There is, however, a divide between the developed and developing countries with the latter calling for increased ODA and referring to ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’.

EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: where are we? (25/05/2021)

The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 contains over 100 actions to be implemented by 2030 by EU to halt and reverse the dramatic loss of biodiversity. 2021 will be a key year in implementing the Strategy, with over 40 deliverables including some key policy initiatives such as action plans and strategies on pollution, organic farming, forests, soils, fisheries resources and marine ecosystems, a new law on nature restoration, a new initiative on deforestation, and adoption of a new, ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework.

Trade & Biodiversity - new methodology to assess impacts (25/05/2021)

In line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Commission is committed to better assess the impact of EU free trade agreements (FTAs) on biodiversity and ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands. The new methodology will contribute to further improve the sustainability impact assessments and ex-post evaluations of EU FTAs. It will also support the objectives of the European Green Deal. It is now being tested in the context of the ex-post evaluation of the EU-Colombia/Ecuador/Peru trade agreement.

Fight against deforestation: where are we? (07/06/2021)

The EU is determined to intensify measures to tackle the global problem of deforestation and forest degradation and relevant commitments are included in the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. Acting on these commitments, the Commission is now working on the new legislation to reduce the impact of EU consumption on deforestation and forest degradation. The proposal is expected in autumn with the two-fold objective: boost the consumption of sustainably produced commodities by promoting transparent and deforestation-free global supply chains and prevent the placement of products and commodities that may be associated with deforestation on the EU market.

New measures to ban trade in ivory (07/06/2021)

In line with the commitment in the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Commission is working on a proposal for the new measures to tighten the rules on ivory trade in the EU. The draft measures were published in January 2021 and the final proposal is now under examination by the EU Member States Committee on Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora. The proposal was subject to public consultation and attracted over 90,000 responses. The proposal is now under examination by the Committee on Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora.

Trade & Biodiversity - INTA Opinion (03/06/2021)

In April 2021, the EP Committee on International Trade (INTA) adopted an opinion on the trade aspects of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The opinion highlights that unsustainable trade - bilateral or multilateral - contributes to the drastic biodiversity loss, in particular with regard to trade in wildlife and certain agricultural commodities. It further calls on the EU to use its position as a major global player to set the benchmark on standards for sustainable food systems, environmental protection and animal welfare. The opinion recommends to the Commission to focus on a ‘process and production method’ (PPM) approach when drawing up measures to fight biodiversity loss, rather than focusing on the product itself, in line with the WTO rules. It also takes a stand on phasing out fossil fuels subsidies urgently and calls on the Commission to explore a white list of endangered species to combat illegal trade.

The Arctic - the role of EU policies and actions (10/06/2021)

A study into the impact of EU policies and actions on the Arctic has just been released with the results presented in an online seminar on 17 June. By examining its own impact, both positive and negative, the EU demonstrated that it is a responsible and open Arctic actor. The study covered EU actions that directly target the Arctic, e.g. research projects, as well as EU actions that are not specifically targeting the Arctic but have a significant impact on the region, e.g. reducing air pollution. This study will contribute to the EU’s updated Arctic Strategy, which is now work in progress.

Business & Biodiversity - the new Align project (25/05/2021)

The Align project (Aligning accounting approaches for nature) – funded by the European Commission - will support businesses, financial institutions and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices, including a standardised approach to biodiversity measurement. Seeking to engage relevant business stakeholders directly, the project will be implemented by a group of partners including UNEP, the World Conservation Monitoring Centre; ; the Capitals Coalition; Arcadis and ICF.

“The Biodiversity Crisis Is a Business Crisis” report (03/06/2021)

A beginner's guide on business and biodiversity for business. This report outlines the major risks that biodiversity loss poses for businesses and presents a guide on the opportunities for businesses that aspire to become biodiversity-positive.

Towards the global plastics agreement - stay of play (09/06/2021)

In response to the global problem of marine litter and plastic pollution, which is projected to triple by 2040, the Governments of Ecuador, Germany, Ghana and Vietnam will jointly organize a Ministerial Conference on Marine Litter and Plastic Pollution, most likely on 1 Sep 2021. The objective is to adopt an ambitious Ministerial Declaration paving the way for the UNEA5 to adopt a negotiating mandate for a global plastics agreement in Feb 2022. The first pre-meeting to the Ministerial Conference on 27-28 May with more 500 participants including governments, NGO’s, industry showed broad support for launching the negotiations for a legally binding global agreement for plastics through a circular economy/life cycle approach. DG ENV is now working with the EEAS to prepare a targeted outreach in run up to UNEA 5.2. with the primary focus on like-minded (signatories to New York declaration) and open-minded countries (e.g. Indonesia, India, Malaysia, South Africa).

GACERE - the Global Alliance on Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency - takes off (19/05/2021)

The EU, teaming up with the United Nations Environment Programme, and in coordination with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, launched the Global Alliance on Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency (GACERE). The Alliance is one of the deliverables of the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan. Alongside the EU, fourteen countries (Canada, Chile, Colombia, Japan, India, Kenya, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Rwanda, Morocco, South Africa and South Korea) have already joined the Alliance. A number of other countries are also considering their membership including Switzerland, Mexico, and Singapore. The second working meeting took place on 1 Jun 2021.

“Single Use Plastics” Directive - the guidelines adopted (31/05/2021)

According to the 2019 EU rules on single-use plastics, by 3 July 2021, Member States have to ensure that certain single-use plastic products – e.g. cotton bud sticks, cutlery, plates and straws etc. - are no longer placed on the EU market. For other plastic products, e.g. fishing gear, single use plastic bags, bottles, tobacco filters and sanitary items – their use has to be reduced and littering prevented through labelling requirements, extended producer responsibility schemes (“polluter pays principle”), awareness campaigns and product design requirements. The adopted Guidelines primarily elaborate on the definition of single use plastics and fishing gear. The biodegradable plastics and paper-based products with plastic coating or lining are regarded as plastics and cannot be used as alternatives to single use plastics.

DG ENV-funded report: 'Circular Economy in the Africa - EU Cooperation' (09/06/2021)

The report provides a general overview of the state of play of circular economy at a continental level as well as in the eight case study countries, including Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal and South Africa. It also provides recommendations on how to enhance EU-Africa cooperation towards a faster transition to a circular economy with the focus on specific sectors.

OECD’s report on international trade and circular economy (25/05/2021)

The report investigates the interlinkages between the circular economy and trade and explores how to make them mutually supportive at a policy level. It focuses on the multilateral trade regime and regional trade agreements as well as on the specific trade-linked policies to promote the circular economy, such as extended producer responsibility and product stewardship schemes, taxes and subsidies, green public procurement, environmental labelling schemes and standards.

EU Action Plan “Towards Zero Pollution for Air, Water and Soil" (28/05/2021)

The plan is a key deliverable of the European Green Deal and sets out an overarching, integrated vision for achieving by 2050: a world where pollution is reduced to levels that are no longer harmful to human health and natural ecosystems, whilst respecting our planetary boundaries. In addition, as pollution does not stop at borders and as the EU acknowledges that it is both the victim and the source of pollution, the Action Plan foresees reinforced external efforts. These inter alia include transboundary water cooperation; restricting exports of products and waste that cause harm in the third countries; better control of trade in e-waste as well as a global initiative on the export of end-of-life vehicles.

EC Communication on the Global Approach to Research and Innovation (25/05/2021)

The EU top priorities, including the green recovery and green transition, are well reflected in this new strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation. In line with the Communication, the Commission will reinforce its support for international cooperation in climate and environmental science e.g. through IPCC, IPBES and IRP), clean tech development as well as in the uptake of the EU green standards globally. Horizon Europe will include dedicated research topics for climate action, environmental protection, pollution reduction, circular economy, sustainable food systems and just transition; these would be open to participation by non-EU countries.

G7 Summit and G7 Environment and Climate Ministerial Meeting (18/06/2021)

The G7 Summit set out a broad vision for addressing the inter-linked climate and biodiversity crises and the importance of acting on them in parallel. The leaders pledged to support a green revolution that creates jobs, to reach zero emissions by 2050 and to halve them by 2030; to increase climate finance by 2025; and to protect at least 30% of our land and oceans by 2030. The preceding G7 Ministerial Meeting on Environment outlined the need to act on specific challenges such as deforestation, wildlife trade, healthy oceans and mainstream nature into all sectors and policies.

EU Bilateral Summits (21/06/2021)

EU recent bilateral Summits with India, Japan, US and Canada reflected growing support to evolving green agenda. The Joint Statements recognized the interdependence between climate and biodiversity crises and the need to act on these in parallel. Individually, there are joint commitments in the field of water management, ocean and biodiversity protection, including through the global 30x30 conservation targets. In addition, the first ever EU Green Alliance with Japan was launched reflecting all EGD priorities.

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