Commission President Jose-Manuel Barroso said: “We want to stimulate real action to give our children and grand-children a more prosperous, cleaner and fairer world. Europe needs to set an example for the rest of the world. That’s in our own interest, not only because it will improve our quality of life but also because economies that adapt fastest to embrace sustainable production methods and new environmental technologies will be at a big competitive advantage.”
The Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS):
. provides a platform for action for business leaders, regional and local authorities, NGOs, academia and citizens’ organisations – who, together, can make change happen;
. identifies key issues such as climate change and energy efficiency where action needs to be speeded up;
. makes links between how EU polices affect sustainability in third countries and vice-versa;
. is a starting point for ensuring that the EU institutions and Member States work in an effective partnership to achieve change, measuring progress and regularly reviewing priorities.
The Review explores “inter-linkages”, in other words how progress in one area can produce positive spin-offs in others. For example, action on sustainable energy can help improve security of energy supply, reduce climate change and local air pollution, reduce poverty and improve security, while promoting rural and local development. It also covers the central role of research and development as well as education and the need for more “joined up” decision making.
The Review aims to mobilise all those who have the capacity to bring about change on the ground. For example, many businesses large and small already take sustainability very seriously indeed. They are asked to continue showing the way to others and offered a consultative role along with other stakeholders such as the social partners in implementing the strategy.
To “kick-start” progress, a number of specific initiatives are proposed. Examples include:
. a series of measures to encourage the development of products and processes for the future, such as cleaner and more efficient cars, information and communication technologies, the use of renewable energy sources and hydrogen. These measures include investment in research and technology development and better regulation;
. working with other countries towards cutting greenhouse gas emissions beyond commitments already made up to 2012;
. an energy efficiency action plan to help realise the potential for 20% savings, for example, in buildings Europe wide.
. reviewing the EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme to consider its extension, for example to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases from aviation and maritime transport;
. improving the coordination and delivery of development aid and strengthening our leadership on global sustainable development.
SDS builds on and reinforces existing policies. For example, the EU has already put in place a range of initiatives to combat climate change, including a flexible trading system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainability impact assessments are now undertaken for all major European Commission policy proposals.
The Commission will submit a progress report every two years. A first report with the latest statistical information accompanies this Communication.