European Union News - Environmnet

The European Commission presented a new package of measures to ensure the build-up of alternative fuel stations across Europe with common standards for their design and use. In particular, the Clean Power for Transport Package consists of a Communication on a European alternative fuels strategy, a Directive focusing on infrastructure and standards and an accompanying document describing an action plan for the development of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in shipping.

The Agricultural Committee in the European Parliament adopted the texts which set position for negotiations with EU member states with regard to the EU farm policy reform. MEPs called in the text for a better redistribution of the EU funding, and making "greening" measures mandatory but flexible and better equip farmers to cope with market challenges.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) launched a joint study with the aim to assess the Southern Mediterranean region’s capability to attract foreign investments for developing local renewable energy industries.

The Council adopted the regulations establishing general fishing opportunities for 2013. These regulations establish the total allowable catches (TACs) and member states' fishing quotas for 2013 in the areas covered by the regulations.

The European Commission welcomed the successful conclusion of the multilateral negotiations to tackle mercury. According to Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for Environment, the new Treaty will bring benefits to all populations around the world, including the citizens of the EU given the long distances that mercury can travel in the air.

The European Commission adopted a new strategy with regard to the air quality in the EU and has declared 2013 as the year of air, with new proposals on improving air quality across Europe.

Biopiracy of multinationals, the practice of patenting and marketing the use of traditional knowledge and genetic resources of indigenous peoples without authorization from source countries, must be fought by the EU according to the European Parliament.

The European Commission launched a public consultation aimed at all citizens interested in organic production in Europe. The consultation will cover possible simplifications to be brought to the existing scheme, while maintaining high standards, as well as the issues of control and international trade.