High-level launch event highlights the future of the European Green Deal

On 23 April, the newly established MEP Group on Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Development hosted a high-level launch event at the Committee of the Regions in Brussels, focusing on "Competitiveness and the Future of the European Green Deal." Co-hosted by MEPs Dimitris Tsiodras (EPP), Nicolas González Casares (S&D), and Elsi Katainen (Renew Europe), the event gathered EU policymakers, industry representatives, researchers, and civil society organisations. Discussions centred on how Europe can strengthen its clean industrial leadership while transitioning to a resource-efficient and competitive economy, maintaining prosperity within planetary boundaries. Opening and keynote speeches from the European Commission set the tone, highlighting the importance of innovation and sustainable development in the legislative term.

The event featured reactions from key stakeholders, including representatives from the European Environment Agency, EurEau, Cepi, the European Pet Organization, and the Institute for European Environmental Policy, followed by an engaging Q&A session with the audience. Speakers underlined the need for ambitious yet balanced policies that address both economic competitiveness and environmental responsibility. In a question, ACR+ General Secretary Françoise Bonnet highlighted the key role of local and regional authorities in the implementation of the Green Deal and the importance to keep them in mind in the upcoming MFF.

The recording of the event is available online for those who could not attend live, offering insights into the evolving debate around Europe's sustainable future.