By Rita Tedesco
Batteries are crucial both for the energy transition and clean transport. However, clear rules need to be set right at the outset of this revolution, so that batteries do not damage our environment. In Europe, policymakers and members of the standardisation community are deciding on the rules that should mitigate the impact of these products. The latest legislative proposal put on the table by the European Commission might be hard to follow – but not with our EU Battery Regulation cheat sheet here below.
By Mathilde Crêpy
On 22 April, the European Commission published its long-awaited ‘climate taxonomy’ or a list of ‘green’ economic activities, which aims to channel investments into activities supporting a change towards a truly sustainable world. Read on for our analysis – all you need to know, including the harsh truths.
ECOS and four other NGOs request the opening of a negotiation with the Commission to establish rules of governance in the Platform on Sustainable Finance. Official talks are needed to make sure political and individual interests do not overrule the scientific integrity of the EU taxonomy criteria.
The text presented today by the European Commission wrongly identifies harmful logging practices and the burning of trees and crops for energy as sustainable, as a result of heavy pressure from industry lobbies. This undermines the whole taxonomy, turning it into a greenwashing tool.
Mandatory ecodesign requirements for textiles and textile products are an essential tool to reduce the environmental impacts of the textiles sector and make the industry circular. Before they are put on the market, clothes should comply with concrete requirements for minimum lifetimes, as well as durability, reusability, repairability and recyclability. In addition, requirements should prevent the presence of hazardous and toxic chemicals, and limit microplastics release at all stages.
Did you know that ecodesign requirements for circular textiles can be the key driving factor towards a more environmentally friendly textiles production? Watch our webinar and learn about the textiles policies and standards needed to protect our planet - before it turns into the ultimate fashion victim.
By Michael Neaves
One by one, the European Union has been moving forward with its Circular Economy Action Plan, launched a year ago. However, the promised Strategy for a Sustainable Built Environment is nowhere to be found – and it has no defined timeline. NGOs and other concerned groups fear the Commission’s promise could come to nothing, with no meaningful action or legislation in sight.
ECOS is co-funded by the European Commission and EFTA
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EISMEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
