It is time to bring the benefits of the European Green Deal to Europe’s citizens and businesses

The creation of the landmark European Green Deal five years ago generated a powerful mobilisationof cross-sector actors in support of Europe’s mission to become the world’s first climate-neutral continent . Altogether – politicians, industries, NGOs -  decided to act on climate change to protect Europe’s people and prosperity. 

We are already seeing the benefits of Europe’s green growth strategy. Record renewable energy generation that shields European homes and businesses from volatile energy bills, better air quality for our children, more protection of nature and biodiversity crucial to mitigate the risk of climate change.

Looking ahead, the Green Deal must serve as the foundation for a competitive, secure, modern and efficient Europe in the next EU mandate. The results of the recent EU elections seem to put this vision at risk.

We need to maintain a strong and stable commitment to confirm the Green Deal as Europe’s growth and security engine, providing much needed clarity and stability to industries and citizens. The energy trilemma weighting on people and businesses (sustainability, affordability, and security) can only be resolved by fully implementing the Green Deal.

We call on EU leaders ahead of the European Summit to agree on three elements.

First, to confirm the EU Green Deal as the top priority of the next 5-year mandate, complemented with a Clean Industrial Deal. This will secure Europe’s prosperity and competitiveness while respecting the environmental objectives.

Second, to financially support the Green Deal and its complementary Industrial Plan. It entails aligning all EU financial tools with the Green Deal objectives and actively supporting every actor in these transitions.

Third, to ensure horizontal consistency and coordination at EU level between the climate and competitiveness objectives. Both objectives should remain at the basis of policy-making.

More than 500 cross sector organisations – companies, industry representatives, local entities, think tanks, NGOs – have joined forced to call on EU leaders to confirm the Green Deal as a priority in the next EU mandate.  

Ultimately, our call simply means delivering what has been initiated over the past five years. The EU is on the right path to securing sustainable and competitive growth. We are all presented with a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to advance towards a competitive, secure and democratic Europe for everyone.

Let’s not gamble on our future, let’s build it!

Bertrand Piccard, Chairman, Solar Impulse Foundation

Pascal Canfin, Member of Europen Parliament, RENEW, President of the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committe

Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon

Eric Scotto, CEO, Akuo

Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO, Solar Power Europe