Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Discover the detailed agenda for this year's edition of the Citizens' Energy Forum ⚡️ taking place on 5 December in Budapest 🇭🇺.Register by 22/11
📣 #EUHaveYourSay and comment on our draft proposal for a repairability index for household tumble dryers 🛠️.The call is open until 3 December 2024
Ensuring shared gas storage capacities in the EU 🇪🇺 is crucial to guarantee security of energy supply & being ready for winter.The binding EU-wide target of 90% was reached already on 19/8. On the deadline 1/11, our #GasStorage is over 95%
🔴 The European Commission fines Teva €462.6 million over misuse of the patent system and disparagement to delay rival multiple sclerosis medicine 👇 ⛔ The Commission found that Teva abused its dominant position to delay competition to its blockbuster medicine for treating multiple sclerosis, Copaxone. This was done by artificially extending Copaxone's patent protection and systematically spreading misleading information about a competing product to hinder its market entry and uptake. 🔍 Our investigation found that Teva abused its dominant position in the markets for glatiramer acetate in Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain.❌ Today's decision concludes that Teva's abuses were complementary and together amounted to a single and continuous infringement of EU law.💉 This is the first time the Commission has imposed a fine in relation to these two types of practices.
#Hydrogen accounted for < 2% of EU’s energy consumption in 2022, mainly used to produce chemical products.By 2050, #RenewableHydrogen is to cover 10% of the EU’s energy needs.
New competition for journalism students!Take the chance to win one of 5️⃣ photo camerasTo participate:✔️ you must be a student in journalism in the EU🇪🇺 and ✔️ have completed the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on the EU and Cohesion Policy by 25 December 2024.The course was designed in partnership with 27 universities and is available in all EU languages. The 14 modules, covering a semester’s worth of content, dive into EU institutions, the impact of Cohesion Policy, EU and cross-border reporting, and innovative digital methods, featuring real-world examples from all 27 EU Member Countries. 1,400 students have already enrolled, enhancing their journalism expertise.How to enter the competition ?👉 After completing the course, send your certificate to regio-press@ec.europa.eu to enter the draw. 5️⃣ lucky winners will be randomly selected to receive a photo camera — a valuable tool to kickstart your reporting career or hobby!Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to sharpen your journalism skills and potentially win a prize!
https://eu.smh.re/0X1s
Over the last 25 years, the European Commission has strengthened rail transport by improving interoperability, reinforcing safety, and developing rail infrastructure. Some of the recent initatives dedicated to trains: 🇪🇺 10 EU pilot projects to boost cross-border rail, including night trains; 🚄 the trans-European transport network that requires trains travelling at speeds of at least 160 km/h by 2040; 👩 the Women in Rail Award, recognising vital contributions of women in the rail sector.
To address competing land use needs for local, sustainable development in #CoalRegionsEU, explore a spatial planning approach with a new toolkit 🔍!
The EU #RenovationWave strategy sets out measures across the whole renovation chain 🏗️🏚️👷‍♂️ that aim to increase the rate & depth of renovations.It also covers other areas, such as🔹 targeted funding🔹 skilled workers🔹 energy poverty
'Movember' is all about encouraging people to grow moustaches to raise visibility and awareness about some aspects of Men's health – prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.The EU is making a difference thanks to:🎗️ the Beating Cancer plan for better access to cancer prevention, early detection, treatment and care;🎗the PRAISE-U project that aims to ensure early detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer;💙 the comprehensive mental health approach, which encompasses different initiatives – from employment to education.Every day, the Commission continues to take steps to build a more resilient #HealthUnion for the EU.#EUCancerPlan #HealthUnion
LIFE tackles #EnergyPoverty head-on 💡 Last month, the EPAH International Annual Conference 2024 brought together nearly 500 experts in #Barcelona to discuss sustainable strategies for energy poverty 💡 The #LIFEProjects, ReHABITA and CoolToRise, are making significant impacts by supporting families across Europe with innovative solutions that reduce costs, improve health and increase #EnergyEfficiency.
Fifty-seven research groups will receive a total of €571 million in European Research Council Synergy Grants, to address some of the most complex scientific problems, covering a wide range of disciplines. The funding fosters collaboration between outstanding researchers, enabling them to combine their expertise, knowledge and resources to push the boundaries of scientific discovery.
📺 Watch Anna Vernet, Head of Unit for Antitrust Pharma and Health Services, explain the reasons behind today’s decision to fine Teva €462.6 million ⬇️🗣 "With today's decision, the Commission is sanctioning Teva's illegal behavior and ensuring that effective competition can lower prices, benefiting Europe’s patients and healthcare systems."
https://eu.smh.re/0X1j
OLS News is out! This month, explore tips for learning 29 languages. Take a moment to complete the #OnlineLanguageSupport General Experience Survey and help improve OLS for everyone.
The 🇪🇺 Commission and the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance have announced a new partnership to accelerate the #EnergyTransition away from fossil fuels.
LIFE powers #EUBiodiversity 🌿 #LIFEProjects are empowering farmers to protect nature by rewarding them for improving habitats and wildlife! Check out success stories from Ireland, Latvia, and Spain—where these schemes are helping both the planet and farmers thrive 🌱💚
The EU🇪🇺 stepped up efforts to #ReduceMethane emissions with partners at #COP29.The new 'Methane Abatement Partnership Roadmap' will further accelerate the reduction of methane emissions associated with fossil energy production and consumption.
The European Commission has fined META for breaching EU antitrust rules ⬇🗣 'This decision shows once more the Commission's commitment to keeping digital markets competitive and open, giving consumers greater choice and smaller players a fair chance to compete and succeed'.DG Competition's Director for Information Technology, Carlota Reyners Fontana, explains the rationale behind this decision
The Commission welcomes the @ENTSO_E Winter Outlook 2024-2025 report, which confirms that the EU is well-prepared in terms of electricity supply ⚡️ for winter ❄️
At the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, starting today in 🇦🇿 Baku, the Commission will work with its global partners to: 🌡️ step up international climate action to keep the 1.5°C global warming target alive; 💰 set a new climate finance goal; 🌍 progress on climate adaptation and resilience Governments, industry, civil society, and citizens must work together to tackle the greatest challenge humanity faces.
Share your input on the EU 🇪🇺 #EnergySecurity architecture.The public consultation and a call for evidence are open until 26 November.#EUHaveYourSay 🧑‍💻
We need high-quality data to make sure #PublicProcurement is effective and transparent. At #TEDTogether2024 join us to learn how that data will be enhanced.
🚨 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record. We are already seeing the impacts of climate change across Europe and the world. At COP 29 in Baku 🇦🇿, the EU is pushing to substantially increase climate ambition and pushing for even more action, including: 🟢Setting a new global goal on climate finance 🟢Completing negotiations on international carbon markets 🟢Pursuing COP28 commitments to transition away from fossil fuels 🟢Pushing for more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions 🟢Progressing on adaptation policies and global resilience to climate change 📊 Latest Copernicus ECMWF data. #COP29 #EUatCOP29
DG Energy's new ‘in-focus’ article provides an overview of EU's role leading the global #EnergyTransition 🌐⚡️It also explains EU global objectives and energy partnerships.
The Commission is investing in 133 new #LIFEProgramme projects to support EU's green transition.59 of these projects focus on the clean #EnergyTransition and will🧑‍🤝‍🧑 upskill energy workers🏗️ boost energy renovations🏚️ combat #EnergyPoverty
Provide feed-back on the revised #EUecodesign requirements for external power supplies!The exercise does not only aim at updating the ecodesign rules, it will also provide an important step towards consolidating the EU common charger.
The share of #GeothermalEnergy in the EU’s renewable energy mix is so far small, compared to other #renewables, but it has potential to grow.One of its main advantages is that its not dependent on the weather ☀️🌬️.
🇵🇹Portugal has just launched its test phase for the #SmartReadinessIndicator!Joining 14 other EU countries who are already piloting the SRI’s implementation, with a view to expanding its application.
Don't miss it: the #EducationForClimate Day 2024 on November 28! Register at https://education-for-climate.ec.europa.eu/community/day2024 Why to attend?1. Does learning for sustainability lead to action? Get insights from the 2024 Education and Training Monitor, with discussions on policy implications and innovative learning strategies.2. Feeling isolated in climate education? Connect, collaborate, and bring your ideas to life in the Community Agora as we address challenges and create shared solutions.3. Interested in green education policy and research? Join the COP29 review alongside policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to unpack its implications for climate-focused education.4. Looking for fresh inspiration for implementing green education? Learn from pioneering (g)local learning communities making education resilient and grounded in sustainability.5. Focusing on green competence development? A showcase of learning scenarios centered around the European Sustainability Competence Framework (GreenComp) awaits you.6. Curious about science-driven climate education initiatives? Discover community-led projects with practical stories of impact and innovation.7. Keen to understand youth perspectives on AI and climate change? Engage in the Youth Climate Lab for actionable recommendations and a sample learning scenario.8. Conclude the day with a relaxed networking session, connecting with others invested in this transformative journey and exploring avenues for continued collaboration.Whether you're an educator, policy advocate, researcher, or student, the #EducationForClimate Day offers a wide-ranging program that tackles climate resilience from many perspectives. Register now, and be part of the movement shaping a sustainable future through education.
In the early hours of last Saturday, the European Parliament and Council of the EU agreed on the annual EU Budget 2025, strengthened by the MFF revision! 💶 🤝It will amount to €199.4 billion and will allow to deliver on the EU’s political priorities and address urgent crises such as recent floods, all while reinforcing EU flagship programs like Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe.The Commissioner for the Budget, Johannes Hahn, and the Director General of DG Budget, Stéphanie Riso, have contributed to finding this agreement together – the negotiations were tough but fair and they managed to strike a great balance that will serve EU citizens well.This was likely the last annual budget negotiation of Commissioner Hahn, who is concluding his term as Budget Commissioner – thank you for your excellent cooperation working on the EU budget!

Thursday, 31 October 2024

Energy communities have the potential to reduce costs for consumers and promote energy justice ⚖️.The 'Smart Cities Marketplace' initiative has published a policy paper looking at #EnergyCommunities through a local authority lens.
Trick or Treat? 🎃 Pick a trick and surprise everyone by turning your leftover decorative pumpkin into a delicious pie! By doing this, you will prevent it from becoming part of the 59 million tonnes of food waste generated in the EU every year. To prevent food loss and waste across the EU, last year the Commission adopted a proposal to set legally binding food waste reduction targets.
The share of #renewables increased to 52% in the 2nd quarter 2024 - from 46% in Q2 2023.The share of fossil fuels fell significantly to 24% - from 30% in Q2 2023.🇪🇺EU #ElectricityMarkets report Q2 2024
The European flags in front of EU-headquarters in Brussels are at half-mast in solidarity with the victims of the floods in Spain, their families and the rescue teams.The floods in Spain are not only a national tragedy. It’s also a European one.Lloramos con vosotros.Juntos nos levantaremos.
LIFE is powering clean, off-grid energy 💡 With early support from the #LIFEProject CLEANAIRMM, Instagrid is pioneering clean, portable power solutions 🌱 They’re transforming off-grid energy by replacing polluting generators with sustainable alternatives🔋 Sarah Fichtner, Head of ESG Strategy and Sustainability at INSTAGRID, shares insights into their journey as a LIFE program beneficiary
This week, we celebrate 𝟑𝟏 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐔 𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩—31 years of unique rights and opportunities for EU nationals. EU citizenship means having the right to: move, vote, be heard and protected.Since the Treaty on the European Union came into effect on 1 November 1993, these freedoms have been an integral part of life for every EU citizen.
The EU offers financing programmes, facilities and initiatives providing⚖️ legal,🧑‍💻 technical, and💶 financial supportto develop large-scale #EnergyEfficiency projects with high investment yields for each euro of public investment.
The EU has reduced its #GHGemissions by 30%, compared to 1990 levels. But in the next 8 years, we need to reduce these emissions by a further 30% to reach our climate 🌱 and energy ⚡️ goals. More #EnergyFacts 👉 https://europa.eu/!D9xcTX #ReduceMethane #CCUS #ClimateAction

Tuesday, 29 October 2024

More than 50 years have passed between these photos of the EU headquarters and now. And we have been able to preserve them thanks to the Commission's audiovisual service, which takes care of EU audiovisual heritage and makes it available to all of you. Want to dig into more #EUHistory? Dive into the EU’s past and present– photos, audio and video are free to download here
The EU 🇪🇺 has more #RenewableEnergy in its heat 🔥production (39%) than other major global regionsUS 🇺🇸 10%China 🇨🇳 0%Global 🌍 5% averageMore #EnergyFacts in the ‘EU Energy in Figures 2024’
To the teachers out there! Here are the necessary tools to help you in your classrooms in the fight against disinformation. This toolkit on "How to spot and fight disinformation” is available for teachers who want to equip their students with essential online navigation skills, including: ✏️ Understanding what disinformation is 📏 Recognising how it spreads 📘 Learning how to respond to it
New #electricity and #gas reports confirm that EU energy markets stabilised in the second quarter 2024, relative to Q2 2023.⚡️ 52% electricity was generated from #renewables ⚡️ gas import volumes remained on a downward trend
Last year, the EU and Japan have sealed a landmark deal at the G7 Trade Ministerial in Osaka.Here’s a snapshot of the key highlights: 🎌 Digital powerhouses unite🎌 Unlocking cross-border data🎌 Ending data localisation burdensThis landmark agreement takes the EU into the digital age, highlighting the need for free data flow and global data rules.
The Western Balkans can contribute so much to our Union's future. And our Union can contribute so much to this region's future, too. President von der Leyen completes her four-day trip in the Western Balkans last week. The EU's €6 billion Reform & Growth Facility for Western Balkans provides the roadmap to bring their economies closer to ours. It gives their companies the access and the means to compete on our Single Market. Everyone benefits and it's a big step towards 🇪🇺.

Saturday, 26 October 2024

When climate disasters hit, Europe is stronger when we stand together.European Commission is proposing amendments to key EU regulations to quickly mobilise funds to support EU countries affected by unprecedented climate-related disasters.The amendments will cover:➡️ The European Regional Development Fund ➡️ The Cohesion Fund➡️ The European Union Solidarity Fund➡️ The European Agricultural Fund for Rural DevelopmentThese measures, combined with existing available resources, will ensure that EU countries can rebuild using the ‘build back better' approach.🟢 More sustainable, resilient, and inclusive societies are the way forward.
While modern energy solutions are driving Europe’s transition away from fossil fuels, they come with an increased demand on our #EnergyInfrastructure.⚡️ EU electricity consumption is projected to rise by 60% between 2023 and 2030Learn more in DG Energy's October 'in focus article'
If you are planning on going on #ErasmusPlus to study abroad, or maybe working with #highereducation institutions in a different country, the #EurydiceEU Network can help you getting organised! ✈️The Network has just launched a 🆕 online tool that gives you an overview on the academic calendars, including holidays length and timings across 37 countries. Plan your academic year with it!
🔬 Celebrating visionary research!With nearly €1 million from Horizon EU's Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, David Baker’s protein research earned him the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.His work paves the way for progress in medicine, nanomaterials, and precision sensors
In which European education systems do primary and secondary students have the longest holidays? And when do they start?Find the answers to these questions and more in the latest #EurydiceEU update on school calendars across Europe. This new interactive web tool offers detailed information on the start of the school year, along with the timing and length of school holidays.Discover it now!
A Game-Changer for Biomedicine: Embracing Sustainability for Health Innovation!The EU🇪🇺's new project in France🇫🇷 aims to transform biomedicine production, and the potential outcomes are remarkable:✅Better Health Solutions: More effective and sustainable production methods can lead to improved medical treatments for patients.✅Economic Growth: As the project expands, it is expected to create jobs and boost local economies within the biomedicine sector.✅Environmental Sustainability: By implementing eco-friendly practices, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of biomedicine production.✅Increased Innovation: This initiative could ignite further advancements in research and development, driving technological progress that benefits both health and our planet.#CohesionPolicy #biomedicine #Healthcare
Empowering Communities: The EU's Initiative for Climate Recovery The European Commission is making important strides to support member states in recovering from climate disasters, focusing on sustainable solutions that bring real value to people and the planet.By investing in resilient infrastructure and green initiatives, we’re not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering long-term benefits for communities and the environment. These efforts can lead to job creation, improved public health, and a stronger connection to nature.As we navigate the challenges of climate change, let's champion these initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our communities and the health of our planet.🔗 Discover more about the EU's initiatives
The 🇪🇺 is ready to make #PeaceWithNature 🌱#COP16Colombia starts today and the decisions that the international community will make, will shape our 🌍 planet's future.The EU will work with international partners to stop and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030
The EC 🇪🇺 has published its assessment of the draft updated National Energy and Climate Plan of Austria 🇦🇹. It includes recommendations on where Austria should raise its ambitions in line with the agreed EU objectives for 2030. #EUGreenDeal
Are you a supplier of products with an EU 🇪🇺 #EnergyLabel?As of 22/10 you must be electronically verified in the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling.Feeling lost in the process? 🤔 Consult the step-by-step guide in the #EPREL user manual
#EUHaveYourSay to evaluate the performance of the EU's #EnergySecurity ⚡️ architecture.The public consultation and call for evidence are open for input until 26 November.
The global share 🌐 of #RenewableEnergy sources in the electricity sector is forecast to expand from 30% in 2023 to reach 46% in 2030. 'Fact of the month' - from @IEA report - in DG Energy's October newsletter
The EU🇪🇺 has a comprehensive #EnergySecurity architecture in place, but during the energy crisis, gaps were identified. 📣#EUHaveYourSay and provide your input by 26/11 to the public consultation or the call for evidence #REPowerEU
🔍 Simplifying EU laws, less reporting, and cutting costs boost competitiveness and make people’s lives easier, with fewer burdens and more transparency. To achieve this, the Fit for Future Platform experts worked hard during their four-year mandate, delivering 41 opinions and around 260 suggestions across key areas like: 💶 Procurement, state aid & EU funds 🛃 Taxation & customs 🌍 Climate, migration & sustainability 🌾 Agriculture & capital markets union 🛡️ Product safety & health 💻 Digital transformation & statistics
The 2024 EU Energy in Figures pocketbook provides statistical data on the EU #EnergySector.EU's share of #RenewableEnergy in the total energy supply rose from 19% in 2021 to 25% in 2022.
Are you considering moving abroad for work? Imagine having one comprehensive source for all the information you need about living and working in your chosen destination. Visit eures.europa.eu/index_en for all the resources and guidance you need to make informed decisions for your career abroad. 🎉 This year, EURES – our EURopean Employment Services – celebrates 30 years of facilitating opportunities and exploring new horizons in the European labour market. #EURES30
According to Eurobarometer, 71% of Europeans say they often come across disinformation. This is why media literacy is important – to navigate the digital environment and identify disinformation. Disinformation can cause confusion, mistrust, and even harm. Before you share something online: Pause. Think. Check. It’s a small step that can protect you and those you share information with.
Acting now for a greener tomorrow✨ 133 new #LIFEProjects will help the #EU achieve climate neutrality by: 🐦preserving #EUBiodiversity 🧶promoting #CircularEconomy 💧tackling #ClimateChange 🔋driving clean #EnergyTransition & more! 👉 https://europa.eu/!67XHVF #EULife23 #LIFEProgramme
The European Research Area aims to create a single, borderless market for research, innovation and technology across the EU. The new Commission's Communication reviews the progress on four key objectives: 🔹 Prioritising investment and reforms 🔹 Improving access to excellence 🔹 Translating results into economic impact🔹 Deepening the research area While the EU has made significant progress, more work is needed to fully unlock its R&I potential to compete on the global stage.
Have you heard the Bulgarian expression, "You put your hood on after the rain"? ☔ It's like saying, "It's too late...". But guess what? It's never too late to learn Bulgarian! 📚 Why not start with #OnlineLanguageSupport during the Global Media and Information Literacy Week, from 24-31 October? 👉 https://bit.ly/BulgarianOnlineLanguageSupport #languages #languagelearning
📣 #EUHaveYourSay on a framework aiming to increase lending for 🏗️ renovation⚡️ decarbonisation of buildings 🏚️ protect vulnerable householdsInput possible until 5 November! https://europa.eu/!MRTPHv #EPBD #EnergyEfficiency #RenovationWave
🌍 From space, our planet is breathtaking. What if space can help us keep it that way? The Copernicus Programme provides real-time data and forecast information vital for biodiversity protection. With its satellites and ground instruments, Copernicus' contribution helps manage vulnerable and endangered ecosystems and combat threats like climate change. During COP16 in Colombia, the EU is highlighting the its commitment to tackling biodiversity loss through integrated solutions and swift nature-based approaches. EU action on the ground and from space plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our planet’s future.

Friday, 18 October 2024

🌉The bridge in your hometown🏞️The natural park in your region🏰The cultural heritage castle in your cityYou can explore over 1.9 million EU-supported projects on our portal!Easily navigate and see the impact of EU funding across Europe! ↓#EUfunded
DG Energy has published the October 🍂 edition of their newsletter - if you are not yet subscribed to receive it by mail, read it here 👇🗞️ https://europa.eu/!9k4GyJ#EnergyInfrastructure #RenewableEnergy #EnergyFacts#EnergyEfficiency #Hydrogen #EnergySecurity
This week, the Council of the European Union adopted proposals to enhance rights for millions of people with disabilities across the EU. Here’s how they will make a difference: 🆔The European Disability Card: a recognized proof of disability throughout the EU, ensuring cardholders access to essential services in all 27 EU countries, from transport to cultural events. 🅿️ The Enhanced European Parking Card: this will guarantee uniform parking rights across EU countries, providing greater independence for individuals with disabilities.
LIFE is cooking up something good, #ForThePlanet 🍽️🌱 #LIFEProject LIFE Climate Smart Chefs shows that sustainable food can be delicious! In just 3 years, 164 chefs from 27 #EU countries have reduced their recipes' carbon & water footprint by 30%🌿 Read more: https://europa.eu/!W6MpCF 🌍 #LIFEProgramme #WorldFoodDay
Developing cross-border #EnergyInfrastructure fit for the 21st century is essential to delivering the EU’s world-leading #EnergyTransition.Learn more in DG Energy's October 'in focus' article 🔍 https://europa.eu/!cDkBvv#PCIs #PMIs #CEFenergy
This World Food Day, we celebrate the colours and flavours of the season!🗺️ Take a culinary journey through Europe, discovering its finest foods and flavours, that are protected by geographical indications.From the 🇵🇹 pears discovered on a farm in Sintra over 150 years ago to the oak wood honey from the ancient forests of Strandzha 🇧🇬 – these foods are a part of our unique history, tradition, and heritage.The EU protects these unique products with quality schemes, including the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).