The consultation hearing on 22 October provided the social partners information about the preparation of the proposal for a Council Recommendation on the social and labour aspects of the just transition towards climate neutrality. The consultation also gathered their suggestions and opinions on the possible content.

Joost Korte, Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, presented the broader context of the initiative and highlighted that climate targets can only be reached if the green transition is fair, and if it is dealt with as a package covering all relevant policy areas.

The planned Recommendation should complement the ‘Fit for 55’ package by guiding the Member States further on how to ensure a just transition towards climate neutrality.

This is essential in order to achieve the expected positive employment outcomes and social co-benefits of the green transition, address the socio-economic challenges and risks, and for achieving the EU’s ambitious climate and energy targets.

Background

On 14 July 2021, the Commission adopted the ‘Fit for 55’ package to deliver on the Union’s binding 2030 climate target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55%, compared to 1990 levels, on the path to climate neutrality by 2050.

Both in the Communication accompanying the package and as part of the proposal for establishing a new Social Climate Fund, the Commission announced a proposal for a Council Recommendation, scheduled for implementation in December 2021, to provide Member States with further guidance on how to best address the social and labour aspects of the green transition.

All recognised European social partners were invited to send written contributions. A public consultation on the initiative was published on 29 October on ‘Have your say’. The Commission has also held similar hearings on this with Member States and civil society organisations.