Derniers documents

Résumé : The impact assessment (IA) underpins the proposal for a regulation on clean corporate vehicles, which is part of the automotive package, through a qualitative and quantitative analysis. The initiative seeks to support the decarbonisation of the EU road transport sector and ensure a fair transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by enhancing their demand in the corporate segment and by accelerating the availability of ZEV on the second-hand market. The IA provides an informative problem definition, covering the political, legal and market context of the initiative, and identifies the problems and the problem drivers, even though it illustrates their scale only partially. Two groups of policy options are presented and clearly explained. In addition, the IA provides information on the discarded policy options. However, the retained options, which are limited only to introducing minimum targets and reporting and monitoring requirements, are not entirely alternative policy options, and the range of options is limited. Both policy option groups propose the same target measures for light-duty vehicles; they differ only in the measures regarding lorries. The IA assesses economic, environmental and social impacts, with the focus on the economic assessment. The analysis is largely based on modelling; the models used, and the assumptions and data sources, are explained in a dedicated annex. The initiative is relevant for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and, consequently, an SME Test was carried out. The competitiveness dimension is embedded in the assessment, which also includes a competitiveness check annex. The IA transparently explains uncertainties in the assessment, which are largely linked to the fact that the policy options leave full flexibility to the Member States to decide on the measures to achieve the defined targets. This affects the impact analysis (costs/benefits) and the comparison of options (effectiveness/efficiency). It is noteworthy that the IA does not select a preferred option (it only indicates a preferred policy option group) as it considers that the choice requires a political decision. The IA does not discuss in much detail the parallel initiative on the review of CO2 emissions performance standards of light-duty vehicles (cars and vans), which is also part of the automotive package, even though an overall assessment of the package and the combined effects of these two complementary initiatives would have improved the analysis. The legislative proposal differs from the IA options, for example in terms of scope (lorries excluded) and target setting. It also defines rules for financial support for corporate vehicles.

Auteurs : TUOMINEN ULLA-MARI

Résumé : This study examines the future deployment of Automated Vehicles in the European Union through an analysis combining technological assessment, scenario development, and policy evaluation. Building on recent advances in Artificial Intelligence, Software-Defined Vehicles, and Intelligent Infrastructure, the study develops three scenarios – European Leadership, Selective Strengths and Dependencies, and External Dependence – to explore how Europe's regulatory and industrial position might evolve. These scenarios serve as a framework for assessing policy options related to legislation, deployment, and EU support for research and development.

Auteur externe : Botsch, Michael; Huber, Werner

Résumé : Primary forests are large, self-regulating ecosystems of exceptional ecological importance. In Europe, they are rare, fragmented, and pressured by infrastructure, and intensive forestry. Their strict protection is urgent for biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and other ecosystem services. Novel Primary Forests (NPFs) are large, self-regulating forests with minimal human intervention under development that offer a strategic way to restore ecological integrity and enhance climate and socio-economic benefits. This study evaluates the feasibility, ecological foundations, and socio-economic conditions for establishing NPFs in western Europe, where only small relics of original primary forests remain. Building on earlier studies, it focuses on areas supporting a contiguous core zone of more than 10 000 hectares unmanaged reserve, forming – together with a buffer zone of low-intensity managed forest – a protected area of more than 70 000 hectares, and embedded in a large socio-economic transition zone. Key criteria were selected and applied to promising regions and National Parks. The study combines literature review, policy analysis, and field assessments to create an evidence-based framework for strategic planning. Examples from Bayerischer Wald-Šumava, Canigou-Canigó, Gerês-Xurés and Hohes Venn-Eifel show feasibility across contexts. Finally, seven policy options are proposed, focusing on innovation, finance, and legal permanence for NPFs. Together, they translate the biodiversity-climate goals of the European Green Deal into an operational framework enabling NPFs to deliver long term benefits for nature conservation, climate mitigation, and adaptation across the EU.

Auteur externe : Muys, Bart; Nyssen, Bart DG, EPRS

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, SERPIERI Margherita

Auteurs : SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : The impact assessment (IA) clearly identifies the initiative's central trade-off: the more flexibility manufacturers are granted, the lower their compliance costs – but the higher the running costs for vehicle users and society, because more non-zero-emission vehicles remain in the fleet. The IA assesses many options with different degrees of flexibility for car manufactures. It is based on a relatively rich methodology. It quantifies impacts for manufacturers, consumers, society and the environment based on a solid modelling set-up complemented by a total-cost-of-ownership approach. It captures distributional impacts and sectoral shifts. At the same time, considerable weaknesses remain. The intervention logic is weakened where problems are framed as risks relying significantly on stakeholders' perceptions, particularly on non-compliance, possible premiums and investment gaps. The objectives and monitoring framework remain largely broad, particularly at operational level, and the uncertainty analysis is limited to electricity- and battery-price sensitivities. Although the evaluations of impacts on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and on competitiveness are useful, they rely on limited and partly qualitative input, with no disaggregation by SME size class. More importantly, the final proposal departs from the IA in several respects – notably on 2035 targets, fuel and steel flexibilities, multiannual compliance, and 'made in the EU' conditionalities – without explaining the reasons or likely impacts of these differences. Finally, the IA, which usefully situates the proposal within the wider automotive package, would have benefited from an assessment of the combined effects of that package, providing clearer visibility on how its measures are expected to interact.

Auteurs : SARRIS Nikolaos

Résumé : The 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will be held in London from 27 April to 1 May 2026. This briefing aims to support the European Parliament delegation to MEPC 84 by providing an overview of the developments since the last MEPC meetings and discussing the key issues at stake, in particular the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Harilaos N. PSARAFTIS

Résumé : Issues at stake The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) Directive obliges the European Commission to report on progress by July 2026, potentially leading to legislative proposals where appropriate, on: • The inclusion of municipal waste incinerators and landfills; • How to account for negative emissions resulting from greenhouse gases (GHG) that are removed from the atmosphere and safely and permanently stored; • The expansion of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions coverage to include international aviation within the EU ETS, pending an assessment of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, • The inclusion of combustion installations below 20 megawatts (MW) of total rated thermal input (capacity); • How to account for GHG emissions captured and utilised (CCU) in a product that enters the atmosphere after a certain period (non-permanent CCU); Additionally, the EU ETS Directive requires the Commission to address other issues with later deadlines. These include: • The inclusion of GHG emissions from medium-sized offshore and cargo ships; • The expansion of GHG emissions coverage for international maritime voyages beyond the existing 50 %, if the International Maritime Organization does not adopt a global market measure to reduce GHG emissions; • The assessment of non-CO₂ aviation effects; • The impact of carbon leakage on sectors not covered by Regulation (EU) 2023/956 on the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM).

Auteurs : LÓPEZ HERNÁNDEZ Juan Fernando

Résumé : The First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels (TAFF) is intended to mark a fresh start by providing a “safe harbour” for state and non-governmental actors that aim to advance the transition at the national and international level. Co-hosted by the governments of Colombia and the Netherlands, the conference aims to form a "coalition of the willing", establish a science-led coordination process, and produce a consolidated report on concrete transition solutions. International cooperation initiatives that do not require the agreement of all parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Paris Agreement are increasingly important for implementation. With this conference being the first of its kind, the briefing for the ENVI mission to the conference outlines the conference's methodology as well as central dynamics and processes: enablers and barriers, TAFF in the UNFCCC context, parallel initiatives, as well as EU actions in the field.

Auteur externe : Juliane Schell, Max Schulze-Steinen, Wolfgang Obergassel. Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy

Résumé : In July 2023, the European Commission tabled a package of three proposals for the greening of freight transport. Among them is a proposal for a single methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport services, referred to as CountEmissionsEU. The initiative covers both freight and passenger transport. It seeks to ensure that GHG emissions data provided regarding transport services are reliable and accurate, to allow fair comparison between transport services. It establishes a methodological framework but does not govern where it has to be used. Nonetheless, if an organisation decides to calculate and disclose information on GHG emissions from transport services it needs to use the methodology provided. To avoid extra red tape for small and medium-sized enterprises, the proposal exempts these companies from mandatory verification of adherence to the rules. In the European Parliament, the file has been dealt with through the joint committee procedure, involving the Committees on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) and on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI). The committees adopted their joint report on 4 March 2024. Parliament voted on its first-reading position during its April I plenary session. Parliament's TRAN and ENVI committees voted to enter into trilogue negotiations with the Council on 4 December 2024. On 5 November 2025, Parliament and the Council reached a preliminary agreement. After the TRAN and ENVI committees endorsed the provisional agreement on 4 December, the Council formally adopted its first-reading position on 26 February 2026. The vote in plenary, following the recommendation of the joint committee, is scheduled for the April 2026 session. Fifth edition of a briefing, the previous editions of which were drafted by Jaan Soone. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Auteurs : KISS Monika

Résumé : The original full study assesses the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework (MFF) from a climate and environmental perspective. It examines changes to spending architecture, targets and tracking methodologies, and evaluates potential implications for biodiversity and climate mainstreaming and performance monitoring, drawing on experience from the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 MFF cycles. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Robert WILLIAMS, Jeanet BENSCHOP, Rahadian RUKMANA

Résumé : This paper assesses the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework (MFF) from a climate and environmental perspective. It examines changes to spending architecture, targets and tracking methodologies, and evaluates potential implications for biodiversity and climate mainstreaming and performance monitoring, drawing on experience from the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 MFF cycles. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Robert WILLIAMS, Jeanet BENSCHOP, Rahadian RUKMANA

Résumé : The impact assessment (IA) underpins the European Commission's proposal to review the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), which aims to enhance the implementation of the EU sustainable finance framework with simpler rules, lower administrative burden and better enforcement. The IA sufficiently explains the need for the revision of the SFDR, drawing on different data sources such as the evaluation and stakeholder consultation. While the problem definition defines and explains the problems and their drivers, some information – for example, on the estimates of the scale of the costs – is scattered across other parts of the IA. The retained policy options, linked to the defined objectives, appear to offer alternative ways to address the defined problems. The IA substantiates the choice of the preferred options package. It expects the combination of the product-level disclosures, based on simpler concepts and reduced data points, and three product categories with criteria for environmental, social and governance (ESG) claims to provide cost savings and enhance comparability of financial products, reduce greenwashing risks, and facilitate investor protection. The stakeholder consultation shows wide support for reviewing the SFDR instead of repealing it, and for the categorisation system of ESG financial products. However, stakeholders seemed to have divergent views on different measures. The SME test, conducted as the initiative is relevant for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), considered that SMEs as financial market participants would benefit from cost savings resulting from the elimination of the entity-level disclosures and other simplification measures. The IA transparently recognises and describes weaknesses in the analysis. It considers that data availability issues would be mitigated by focusing the concepts on information that is available, widely used and possible to estimate, while recognising risks in using data estimates in the absence of data. The IA explains that for the categorisation options, the efficiency analysis is only qualitative, owing to data limitations and uncertainty of costs relating to establishing product categories. The final IA, revised based on two Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) opinions, seems to have made efforts to address the RSB's comments. The legislative proposal appears to follow the IA's preferred combination of options.

Auteurs : TUOMINEN ULLA-MARI

Résumé : The impact assessment supports the proposed legislative amendments to extend the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to downstream goods, prevent the circumvention of CBAM obligations, and encourage the decarbonisation of electricity imports. While overall it provides a good evidence-based analysis supporting the proposal, it could have been better structured and presented. One of the main shortcomings is that the downstream study, which provides a lot of supporting data justifying the proposal, is not publicly available. The IA defines the problems clearly, despite the challenge that, due to the nature of the basic act, these identified problems have not yet occurred. The IA openly acknowledges this limitation. Given that the three identified problems are very different, the IA analyses several policy options for each of them. Some options are analysed well; however others could have been better developed and explained. The IA presents the preferred policy combination that appears to be the best in terms of potential outcomes, i.e. reducing global emissions and carbon leakage, minimising the risk of circumvention, lessening administrative burden, and improving the treatment of electricity imports. The IA identifies the initiative's general and specific objectives, which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound, as recommended by the Better Regulation Toolbox 'S.M.A.R.T.' criteria. The assessment of environmental, economic and social impacts is carried out, but it is elaborated unevenly. Stakeholders were widely consulted, clearly divided per problem they were addressing, and their views were considered. It appears that efforts were made to address the Regulatory Scrutiny Board's recommendations, but some shortcomings remain, related to the CBAM anti-avoidance measures. Lastly, it appears that the proposal is in line with the preferred policy option combination as identified in the IA.

Auteurs : GRGAS BRUS KATARINA

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, CROSSFIELD CLARE BABETTE, SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : The carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is being implemented to create a level playing field on carbon pricing of specific goods within the EU single market. For CBAM-covered goods, free allowances under the EU′s emissions trading system (ETS) will be progressively phased out by 2034. With the phase-out of free allowances in CBAM-covered goods, EU operators producing goods for export will be at a disadvantage in markets without similar carbon pricing. The European Commission is proposing a temporary decarbonisation fund to support certain goods in the aluminium, fertilisers, iron and steel sectors. Other energy-intensive industries at continued risk of carbon leakage could also benefit. The fund would provide short-term support as a temporary bridge solution, pending a review in the context of the forthcoming revision of the EU ETS due in 2026.

Auteurs : JENSEN LISELOTTE

Résumé : In December 2025, the European Commission published a communication entitled Strengthening EU economic security as a follow-up to its 2023 economic security strategy. Economic developments – whether related to trade, investment or industry – are increasingly viewed through the lens of security. From a foresight perspective, this development can be analysed as the result of three overlapping and partly reinforcing trends. The first is the weakening of a value-based approach to the economy, as exemplified by fair trade agreements and the EU Green Deal. The second is the rise of geo-economics, which places the interests of countries and regional blocks at the forefront, increasing the need for mitigating policies such as economic security. The third is the growing interaction between defence policy and economic policy, with military security influencing economic decisions and the defence sector growing in importance in the EU economy. This briefing argues that these combined trends are transforming the EU's economic policy and economy, and that the growing prominence of security as a guiding principle of economic and trade policies is bringing the question of EU strategic autonomy back to the centre of EU policy. Although the increasing importance of economic and defence security appears to be mutually reinforcing, with both trends potentially enhancing EU strategic autonomy, synergy between them is not a given. The raw materials and finances needed to reinforce the EU defence industrial base require a strong and open economy. However, concerns about foreign influence require economic decoupling from certain countries (e.g. Russia) and de-risking from others (e.g. China). Moreover, the EU faces unexpectedly difficult choices in its relations with the United States (US), where its dependence on US support in defence and security reduces its capacity to act independently as an economic player and rule-maker.

Auteurs : DAMEN Mario

Résumé : The Commission is proposing to revise CO2 emission performance standards for new cars and vans. The amendments aim to introduce flexibilities and enhance technology neutrality to achieve the related targets. The proposal also establishes a new labelling system based on CO2 emission performance classes, with the aim of facilitating the purchase of electric vehicles and harmonising labelling across the EU. The proposal builds on feedback from the 2025 strategic dialogue on the future of the automotive industry, which sought to address challenges in the sector. It forms part of the automotive package for a clean and competitive European automotive sector.

Auteurs : LÓPEZ HERNÁNDEZ Juan Fernando

Résumé : Quantum technologies have transformative potential and are already exerting a significant impact on global economies and society. The European Union (EU) supports the development of these technologies through initiatives such as the Quantum Flagship and Horizon Europe, as well as through national initiatives and programmes. However, the specific role of quantum technologies in supporting the EU's energy and climate goals has so far received limited and fragmented policy attention. This briefing explores how the emerging quantum ecosystem could help accelerate decarbonisation and address the existing innovation gap that must be bridged to achieve climate neutrality (i.e. net-zero emissions) by 2050. Achieving this goal requires technological breakthroughs in sectors that are currently difficult to decarbonise. Quantum computing has the potential to transform these areas by, for example, simulating complex molecular interactions that classical computers cannot handle efficiently. Such capabilities could fast-track the development of more efficient batteries, green hydrogen catalysts and carbon capture materials. Quantum sensing is already providing precise tools for monitoring greenhouse gas emissions, and quantum communication has the potential to secure the critical digital infrastructure of future electricity grids. Available evidence indicates that, while the EU is investing seriously in quantum research, it currently lacks a coordinated strategy linking these technologies explicitly to decarbonisation. With the European Commission expected to adopt a quantum act in 2026, policymakers have a unique window of opportunity to address this gap. By integrating long-term decarbonisation objectives into the research and innovation framework, the EU can leverage its scientific leadership to drive the next generation of clean technologies.

Auteurs : GUEDES FERREIRA VASCO NUNO

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : The European Commission drew up seven impact assessments (IAs) in support of 18 programme proposals for the 2028-2034 multiannual financial framework (MFF) and the proposed regulation on a horizontal performance framework. The broad scope of these IAs does not allow individual programme proposals to be assessed in any detail – as is particularly salient in the case of the IA on the national and regional partnership plans, covering nine legislative proposals. All IAs acknowledge a deviation from the scope and depth of a standard IA as defined by the Better Regulation Guidelines (BRG). This is justified with Tool #9 of the BR Toolbox, which indicates the specificity of the MFF, but does not define how related IAs should be carried out. As a result, the application of the better regulation principles varies widely across the MFF IAs. They are similar insofar as the Commission chose for all of them a mostly horizontal rather than policy-specific approach and did not include any budgetary considerations and scenarios. These choices affect the quality of key sections of the IAs considerably, albeit to varying extents. The problem definition often lacks specificity and substantiation. Similarly, the IAs' objectives remain largely unspecific, which, in turn, affects the IAs' monitoring and evaluation provisions and risks hampering the future measuring of the objectives' achievement. The description of policy options is in most cases short and vague, which weakens the impact analysis. The depth to which economic, social and environmental impacts are assessed varies across the sampled IAs. The analysis remains predominantly qualitative, with quantification largely lacking. All seven MFF initiatives are deemed relevant for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and are thus listed in the 'SME filter'. The IAs state that they place great emphasis on simplification and burden reduction. None of them is accompanied by a subsidiarity grid, and they discuss subsidiarity, European added value and proportionality rather briefly. While the IAs differ considerably in terms of quality and transparency when it comes to their evidence base and methodology, all of them acknowledge certain limitations and a lack of data (notably quantitative data). Consultation activities were largely limited to open public consultations. The Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) found significant shortcomings in all seven draft IAs, prompting it, exceptionally, to issue opinions without qualification. The persisting flaws in the final IAs suggest that the RSB recommendations have at best been partially addressed. Altogether, the limited quality of the MFF IAs appears to reflect a missed opportunity to provide policymakers with high-quality and transparent evidence for one of the most important policy packages to be negotiated in the coming months and years.

Auteurs : ANGLMAYER Irmgard, KRAMER Esther

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : The present impact assessment (IA) is part of the Commission proposals for the EU spending programmes under the post-2027 multiannual financial framework (MFF). It acknowledges from the start that it deviates from the scope and depth of a standard IA by invoking Tool #9 of the Better Regulation toolbox, which governs the law-making process for spending programmes and financial instruments, including the MFF. While recognising the applicability of BRG Tool #9, the Regulatory Scrutiny Board delivered a critical opinion on the draft IA, pointing to significant shortcomings across all sections. In view of those shortcomings, the Board exceptionally issued an opinion without qualification. Based on a dynamic baseline scenario, the IA identifies three policy options in response to the problem definition, of which one (the option envisaging a single Preparedness Fund) is discarded at an early stage as non-viable. However, only the discarded option would have reflected the wide and cross-cutting scope of the all-hazard approach set out in the intervention logic (in particular, the problem definition and objectives). The two retained policy options are narrower in scope. The assessment of the expected impacts of the remaining policy options falls short of Better Regulation standards. Similarly, the choice of the preferred option appears not to be sufficiently substantiated. The evidence base of the initiative seems to be pertinent and is well-referenced throughout the IA, where qualitative data prevails. An open public consultation regarding EU funding for civil protection, preparedness and crisis response was carried out, running over the required period of 12 weeks. No targeted consultation activities were undertaken, nor was a call for evidence launched. With the exception of the legal basis, the proposal appears to be coherent with the preferred policy option. In the context of national parliaments' subsidiarity check, the French Senate issued a reasoned opinion on the proposal, raising concerns regarding compliance with the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality and the broad scope of the initiative.

Auteurs : ANGLMAYER Irmgard

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : On 17 July 2025, the Commission released its proposal for the MFF for the 2028-2034 period.The European Parliament’s Committee for Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI Committee) has requested this briefing to analyse how the proposed 2028-2034 MFF would provide funding for climate and environment objectives. The proposed MFF introduce a horizontal 35% spending target for climate and environment, and streamlined 'do no significant harm' principle.The proposed NRP Fund and European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) would replace the LIFE programme as the principal source of funding for climate and environmental initiatives. Horizon Europe would support the ECF regarding collaborative research activities. The Connecting Euroope Facility would continue to support the transition to decarbonised transportation networks and renewable energy supply. Global Europe would remain the main instrument to support EU external action in the fields of climate, environment and sustainable development.

Auteur externe : Axel GRISLIN

Résumé : In 2007, the EU adopted the INSPIRE Directive, which – together with the 2003 Directive on public access to environmental information – created a framework for Member States to make existing spatial environment data ('green data') available in a harmonised way. INSPIRE had several implementation steps up until 2021. Implementation of the INSPIRE Directive has been constantly monitored and supported by EU institutions. The European Commission's first implementation report of 2016 showed that, despite local successes, most Member States were behind schedule on the planned steps. This triggered renewed coordination efforts, infringement procedures, and a new monitoring and indicator framework. The 2022 Commission implementation report showed a more positive situation. The framework was deemed effective and increasingly relevant; nonetheless, efficiency remained an issue, as datasets were found to require further prioritisation, and the use of implementing acts to define standards was seen as cumbersome. The 2020 European strategy for data, the 2022 Data Governance Act, the 2023 Data Act, and the 2025 European data union strategy create a new EU legal backbone for sectoral data legislation such as the INSPIRE Directive. According to the Commission, the forthcoming proposals for a revision of INSPIRE through the announced EUGreenData4All initiative, originally expected at the end of 2022 as part of the 2022 Commission work programme, will be an opportunity to simplify the EU's approach to the sharing of green spatial data, and to adapt the green data rules to the modernised legal framework.

Auteurs : MEGNE SIMONA, JANSEN Talander Hugo

Résumé : On 21 October 2025, the European Commission under Ursula von der Leyen's second mandate adopted its work programme for 2026 (2026 CWP). In line with the Commission President's political guidelines and letter of intent and highlighting the need for full implementation of Mario Draghi's competitiveness report, the 2026 CWP places a strong emphasis on competitiveness, innovation and collective security. In parallel, the Commission commits to advancing simplification, implementation, and this year, also to strengthening enforcement. These three areas will remain key horizontal priorities for the entire Commission mandate. Just like last year's CWP, the 2026 CWP adheres to the seven headline ambitions put forward in the political guidelines. It is accompanied by a report on implementation, simplification and enforcement, the first of its kind. This new annual report is set to replace the annual burden survey. Annex I of the 2026 CWP puts forward 70 major new legislative and non-legislative initiatives, 44 % of which fall under the competitiveness headline ambition. (Up to) 48 of the new initiatives are legislative, including three sector-specific omnibus packages (on energy product legislation, taxation and citizens). Of the forthcoming legislative initiatives, 67 % are likely revisions of existing legislation, while more than half have a strong simplification dimension. Unlike previous CWPs, the 2026 CWP does not indicate whether a legislative initiative will be accompanied by an impact assessment; this lack of transparency runs counter to the spirit of the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making. Information on the Commission's 'Have your say' portal shows that, at the time of writing, two thirds of the up to 48 legislative initiatives were expected to be accompanied by an impact assessment (though the final number may be higher). The annual evaluation plan presented in Annex II of the CWP, comprising 20 evaluations, does not appear exhaustive. Finally, the communication on Better Regulation, expected in Q2 2026, may entail a revision of the Better Regulation Guidelines, the first since 2021.

Auteurs : ANGLMAYER Irmgard, DALLI HUBERT, IOANNIDES Isabelle

Résumé : From 10 to 21 November 2025, the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) will take place in Belém, Brazil. The COP is the main international conference that addresses the global response to climate change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Representatives from almost 200 Parties will discuss ways of mitigating climate change, adapting to its impacts and supporting developing countries in their efforts. The full study provides an overview of the status of international climate negotiations in view of the mission of the European Parliament to COP30. It covers the framework of COP negotiations and main expected issues and discusses the climate policies of key Parties, the positions of negotiating groups and the role of non-Party stakeholders. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Lorenz MOOSMANN, Oeko-Institut

Résumé : This study provides an overview of the status of international climate negotiations ahead of the Climate Change Conference in Belém, Brazil, from 10 to 21 November 2025. This full study covers the framework of COP negotiations and main expected issues, while adding a discussion of the climate policies of key Parties, the positions of negotiating groups and of the role of non-Party stakeholders. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Lorenz MOOSMANN, Oeko-Institut Anne SIEMONS, Oeko-Institut Felix FALLASCH, Oeko-Institut Ralph HARTHAN, Oeko-Institut Cristina URRUTIA, Oeko-Institut Nora WISSNER, Oeko-Institut Lambert SCHNEIDER, Oeko-Institut Victoria BREBECK, Oeko-Institut Sophia LAUER, Oeko-Institut Tatiana CUERVO BLANCO, Trinomics Marie STJERNQUIST, Trinomics Peter JANOSKA, Trinomics Sara SVENSSON, Trinomics

Résumé : This briefing aims to support the ENVI Committee delegation that will participate in the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from 24 November to 5 December 2025. The conference will be an opportunity to assess how the Convention is being implemented, propose ways to enhance its effectiveness, discuss the resources needed for stronger action, and consider amendments aimed at improving the protection of species threatened by trade.

Auteur externe : Pedro Cardoso, University of Lisbon

Résumé : This study provides an overview of the status of international climate negotiations ahead of the climate change conference in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025. It covers the key topics under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Lorenz MOOSMANN, Felix FALLASCH, Anne SIEMONS, Cristina URRUTIA, Lambert SCHNEIDER

Auteurs : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, SERPIERI Margherita

Résumé : The purpose of this briefing is to provide support to the European Parliament delegation to the 13th session of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, taking place 14-23 July 2025 at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The briefing provides an overview of the progress made on the SDG implementation by the global community and the EU, as well as key issues at stake in the meeting. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Nora HILLER

Résumé : The European Parliament is vested with powers of democratic oversight and political scrutiny vis-à-vis the European Commission. These powers of Parliament enhance the democratic legitimacy of the EU as a whole, and help increase the transparency and accountability of the Commission as the EU's executive body. This study examines Parliament's oversight and scrutiny powers over the Commission. It focuses mainly, but not exclusively, on the powers that are enshrined in specific provisions of the EU Treaties. This includes Parliament's role in the Commission's investiture, in motions of censure, parliamentary questions, committees of inquiry and special committees, and in the Commission's obligations to report, consult and inform. It also looks into Parliament's scrutiny over budgetary issues, of delegated acts, in the context of the EU legislative procedure and agenda-setting, of legal proceedings before the Court of Justice of the European Union, and of the EU's external relations. The study builds on a previous EPRS study on parliamentary scrutiny of the Commission, originally requested by the European Parliament's Committee on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO) in 2018. The data presented in this edition focus on the ninth term parliamentary term (2019 to 2024).

Auteurs : TENHUNEN Susanna, EISELE Katharina, AHAMAD MADATALI HANNAH NAFIZE, JANSEN Talander Hugo

Résumé : This briefing is prepared for the European Parliament delegation to the third United Nations Ocean Conference, which will take place in Nice, France, from 9-13 June 2025. It provides an overview of the initiatives at the international and European level that aim to conserve and sustainably use the oceans and presents the key topics that will be addressed at the conference.

Auteurs : BURGER Judith

Résumé : Commitments made by Jessika Roswall, Commissioner-designate for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, 2024-2029

Auteurs : MARTINELLO BARBARA, MAJERCZYK MAGDALENA, NANNUCCI LAPO, POLLUVEER KRISTI

Résumé : Commitments made at the confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate 2024-2029

Résumé : Commitments made by Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner-designate for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth, 2024-2029

Auteurs : MAKAY Monika, CIUCCI MATTEO, DEBYSER Ariane, ANGERER Jost, POLLUVEER KRISTI, THOMAS ALIZÉE HELEN, GULIČ NOSAN ENIJA

Résumé : Der Globale Biodiversitätsrahmen von Kunming-Montreal wurde 2022 mit dem Ziel angenommen, die Erhaltung der biologischen Vielfalt durch die Festlegung von 23 Handlungs- und vier Statuszielen zu forcieren. Da die 16. Konferenz der Vertragsparteien (COP 16) im Oktober 2024 kurz bevorsteht, sollen im Rahmen dieser Studie der Gesamtfortschritt bei der Umsetzung der Ziele seit der COP 15 sowie die größten Herausforderungen unter die Lupe genommen werden. Hierbei sollen u. a. der Stand der Umsetzung auf nationaler Ebene, die Einrichtung eines Finanzierungsmechanismus und die Annahme eines multilateralen Abkommens über digitale Sequenzinformationen untersucht werden. Diese Studie wurde von der Fachabteilung Wirtschaft, Wissenschaft und Lebensqualität im Auftrag des Ausschusses für Umweltfragen, öffentliche Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit (ENVI) erstellt.

Auteur externe : Gabrielle AUBERT & Nigel DUDLEY

Résumé : This study provides an overview of the status of international climate negotiations and issues at stake at the COP29 climate change conference. It also addresses the current implementation of the Paris Agreement, the climate policies of key Parties and the stakeholders in the negotiations. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Lorenz MOOSMANN, Felix FALLASCH, Hannes JUNG, Sophia LAUER, Nora WISSNER, Cristina URRUTIA, Lambert SCHNEIDER, Dietram OPPELT, Stefanie VON HEINEMANN, Neeta SHARMA, Anders MCCARTHY & Bianca KOHLER

Résumé : The Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted in 2022, aims to drive global biodiversity conservation through 23 targets and four overarching goals. As COP16 approaches in October 2024, the study looks at overall progress in implementation since COP15 and examines the major issues at stake, including a review of the state of implementation at national level, establishing a financial mechanism and adopting a multilateral agreement on digital sequence information. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI).

Auteur externe : Gabrielle AUBERT & Nigel DUDLEY