A message of solidarity from ECOS
The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic are devastating on every aspect of our society, and the immediate priority for the EU’s response rightfully lies with protecting human health. However, decisions made today will shape the way society and our economy is built in a post-pandemic world. More than ever, our goal should be to work towards a clean economy that develops sustainably, for the benefit of people and the environment in which they live.
The European Green Deal and its underpinning initiatives, such as the Circular Economy Action Plan, already provide a economic vision based on the principles of sustainability and solidarity.
As we regenerate our economies in the coming months and years, we have an ideal opportunity to make sure they are greener, cleaner, circular and sustainable. Therefore, the principles of the Green Deal should be a main pillar for the economic recovery plans currently under development, supported by the mobilisation of environmental finance. The counter-narrative that protecting our environment should be stopped or delayed will only lead us to making the same mistakes, and no benefits will come from the economic recovery.
In particular, a key driver towards a circular and decarbonised economy is the European Green Deal’s Circular Economy Action Plan and the initiatives it promises for key economic sectors, notably: the Sustainable Product Policy Framework; the “Right to Repair”; the Circular Electronics Initiative, including the common charger solution; the Ecodesign Working Plan; the EU Strategy for Textiles; and the Strategy for a Sustainable Built Environment.
We therefore call on the European Union to put greening our economies at the heart of the economic stimuli which will follow the Covid-19 pandemic. Only by working together, and for the benefit of the entire planet, can we create a safe and sustainable future.
