New European Investment Bank report – Bridging opportunity gaps: EIB Group investments in education, health and housing

Europe’s social model is a global benchmark for well-being, but demographic ageing, the green and digital transitions, and recurring economic shocks are putting it under strain. Sustaining progress will require smart, efficient social investment that mobilises public and private resources. This report looks at how the EIB Group is responding to these challenges by financing … Continue reading New European Investment Bank report – Bridging opportunity gaps: EIB Group investments in education, health and housing

Will the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement really go against the EU’s climate commitments?

The EU is set to sign a long-awaited trade deal with South America's trade bloc, Mercosur. It may offer unexplored opportunities, but critics say the environmental fallout is being sidelined. In an article on the Deutsche Welle website, Martin Kuebler discusses the main issues.   What the EU-Mercosur deal might mean for the environment Ursula … Continue reading Will the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement really go against the EU’s climate commitments?

Europe’s carbon border tax is a wake-up call for the UK

In a column in the January issue of Energy in Buildings & Industry, Andrew Warren, Chair of the British Energy Efficiency Federation, considers the introduction of new ‘green tariff’ rules set to impact on any high-carbon goods entering into the EU and the need for the UK government to deliver on its commitment to secure … Continue reading Europe’s carbon border tax is a wake-up call for the UK

New EEA briefing on climate adaptation

Climate-proofing the agriculture, energy and transport sectors would help avoid billions of euros in losses from the accelerating extreme weather events related to climate change. At the same time, it would increase Europe’s competitiveness, according to a briefing published this week by the European Environment Agency (EEA).   Investing in climate adaptation strengthens European competitiveness … Continue reading New EEA briefing on climate adaptation

Europe’s climate ambitions face a political reality check

European industrial and agricultural concerns are facing diluted environmental regulations, while the bloc as a whole has reduced its climate targets. Tim Schauenberg writes on the Deutsche Welle website to understand what's at stake and how do far-right parties feature in the mix.   Is Europe turning away from climate protection? Amid tariff disputes, the … Continue reading Europe’s climate ambitions face a political reality check

How Europe’s carbon border tax will show up in your shopping basket

Simona Sagone, PhD Candidate, Green Finance, Lund University and University of Palermo, writes on The Conversation website about the impact of the EU’s new carbon border adjustment mechanism that is coming into force at the beginning of 2026.   How Europe’s new carbon tax on imported goods will change global trade – and our shopping … Continue reading How Europe’s carbon border tax will show up in your shopping basket

EU walks back 2035 all-electric target, permitting some new combustion engine cars

A last-minute deal in Berlin ensured the death of the combustion engine ban — a previously unthinkable outcome. Jordyn Dahl writes on the Politico website about the Commission’s latest plan that now goes to the European Parliament and Council. Also, check out the latest article by Monica Frassoni. She argues why the electric transition is … Continue reading EU walks back 2035 all-electric target, permitting some new combustion engine cars

EEA publishes 8th Environmental Action Programme

Despite progress in key areas, the European Union (EU) remains likely off track for most 2030 environmental goals, according to the European Environment Agency’s (EEA) new 8th EAP assessment. Rising climate risks, slow transitions in production and consumption system and weakening enabling conditions highlight the urgent need for stronger, better financed and faster policy implementation. … Continue reading EEA publishes 8th Environmental Action Programme

New EEA briefing on air quality health impact in the EU

Just over 180,000 deaths in the European Union were attributable to exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations above World Health Organization WHO guideline levels in 2023, according to the latest European Environment Agency (EEA) air quality health impact assessment published this week.   Air quality improving, but just over 180,000 deaths still attributable to … Continue reading New EEA briefing on air quality health impact in the EU

Blog by Jane Marsh – A grid under pressure: Europe’s next climate battle Is staying cool

Heat waves are ravaging the planet, which is a new phenomenon for most of Europe. Experts used to judge energy stability by the availability of heat, but now, the grid is showing citizens and governments that priorities need to change. A comprehensive, climate-aware cooling strategy is necessary to increase power resilience and stability. It requires … Continue reading Blog by Jane Marsh – A grid under pressure: Europe’s next climate battle Is staying cool