Articles on Ecology Böll EU Newsletter 10/2024 - After the 'super election year': A whole new world? 2024 was the year of the vote; more than 100 countries, representing nearly half of the global population, held elections this year. 2025 will be the year of political work, with governments implementing the policies and promises made. In this context, one central question is emerging: What is the role of the state and government in an era defined by profound political, economic and environmental challenges? And what capacity do governments have to deal with them? By Roderick Kefferpütz Twin transition: the reasons for scepticism Commentary Something sounds awry about the term ‘twin transition’. The concept, often used in EU or UN contexts, ties two crucial transitions: the move to renewable energy and the digitalisation of economies. While it sounds forward thinking, evidence suggests this pairing may be less beneficial than promised. As developing countries bear the socio-environmental costs while reaping limited benefits, a handful of tech giants continue to dominate global markets. Paz Peña raises a crucial question: is this ‘transition’ truly a path to equity, or does it deepen old divides under the guise of green progress? By Paz Peña Poland’s EU Council Presidency - What to expect? Analysis Poland takes on the EU Council Presidency in January 2025. What does this role mean, and what challenges lie ahead? Our latest article explores the key context and what to expect during this pivotal six-month period. By Beata Cymerman , Agata Gontarczyk , Anna Jakubowska , Maciej Makulski , Paul Naumann and Julia Borówko Biochar: buddying up soils Soil Atlas 2024 In recent years, research interest in biochar has gained significant attention in mainstream discourse. The sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilisers offers triple benefits: enhanced soil health, improved livelihoods, and climate protection. By Audrey S-Darko Flooded with lies: climate infodemic in Valencia Analysis Following the worst natural disaster in Spain’s recent history, the country has witnessed an outpour of politically charged conspiracy theories that cast doubt on the government and democratic institutions. While such lies are often created and circulated by a small network, they can quickly spread beyond traditional circles and gain widespread attention. What can be done to stop the spread of disinformation in the wake of catastrophic weather events? By Florent Marcellesi Delivering a fair household energy transition: learning and priorities Analysis The green technologies needed to rapidly cut our greenhouse gas emissions are already on the market. What’s more, they are, or very soon will be, cost effective. In other words, from the perspective of the household, it is, overall, cheaper to go green. However, there’s a catch: access to capital is king in the household energy transition. By Alex Chapman 3 Questions on the outcome of the COP Negotiations in Baku to Lena Schilling MEP 3 Questions The COP negotiations in Baku brought together global leaders, activists, and stakeholders amidst a tense geopolitical climate. With the influence of authoritarian leaders, ongoing debates over climate finance, and the presence of civil society under challenging conditions, the outcomes of this year’s talks were far from predictable. MEP Lena Schilling reflects on the key dynamics that shaped the negotiations and offers insights into the path forward for international climate action. By Lena Schilling and Louise Mollenhauer (on extended leave) COP29 exacerbates climate injustice Analysis COP29 was expected to deliver a global goal for climate finance that meets the challenges of the future. It failed to do so. Instead, it launched international carbon markets that create new loopholes for fossil fuel emitters. By Linda Schneider Böll EU Newsletter 9/2024 - Growing challenges, declining majorities Newsletter What a show these last couple of weeks have been. The return of Donald Trump, the rupture of the German federal government, and then the ridicule of the Commissioner-designate hearings in the European Parliament. Challenges are rising, but stable majorities in Europe are eroding. It is increasingly difficult to build consensus and have a stable centre of political gravity. By Roderick Kefferpütz What to expect in the first 100 days of the von der Leyen II European Commission? Infographic On 18 July 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was elected for a second mandate and presented to the European Parliament her Political Guidelines for the next European Commission. A new European Commission will kick-off its work on 1 December 2024, after its approval by the European Parliament. We take a look at von der Leyen's promises for the first 100 days (and beyond) of the new European Commission. By Joan Lanfranco Carbon farming won’t save the planet Commentary Funding climate protection through carbon certificates for soil may seem beneficial at first. However, a greater focus on soil health and supporting farmers in adopting sustainable practices would be far more effective in practice. By Sophie Scherger What is the status of energy poverty in the European Union? Explainer 35 to 72 million people across the EU are facing energy poverty. These issues already have powerful implications today from a public health or productivity point of view. Over the years, the EU has constructed a series of policy instruments to assess better and comprehensively address the phenomenon. By Marine Cornelis Enforcing energy rights to promote energy justice Commentary A just energy transition must, in essence, address the three foundations of energy justice (distributive, recognitional, and procedural) as well as the systematic problems that are present in energy access issues, in consumer rights enforcement, or the fact that some people cannot reap the full benefits of services available to them. By Marine Cornelis Soil Atlas 2024: Healthy soils hand in hand with food security, climate and nature conservation Press release Healthy soils are a basic requirement for producing nutritious food, preserving biodiversity and adapting to climate change. But the condition of the soils is poor, with more than a third of the world's agricultural land being considered degraded. In the European Union, more than 60 percent of soils are now damaged - caused, among other factors, by industrial agriculture and the effects of the climate crisis such as droughts. This is outlined in the Soil Atlas 2024, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and TMG – Think Tank for Sustainability. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and TMG – Think Tank for Sustainability 12 brief lessons about soils Soil Atlas 2024 Soils are vital to our survival. They store greenhouse gases and water and are home to at least a quarter of all living creatures on earth. However, over 60 percent of soils in the EU are damaged and their sealing threatens biodiversity. Soil Atlas 2024: Foreword Soil Atlas 2024 Soil is the foundation of life on Earth. Its beauty and complexity as a living ecosystem are vast, and its functions are integral to our lives. For example, 95 percent of global food production depends on healthy soils, making access to fertile soil essential in the fight against hunger. Soils are also a crucial ally in adapting to climate change, as they help buffer the effects of droughts and floods. By Dr. Imme Scholz and Dr. Jes Weigelt Ecosystem soil: the foundation of life Soil Atlas 2024 Soil – sometimes referred to as the planet's skin – takes hundreds or thousands of years to form, making it a non-renewable resource on a human timescale. It provides the basis for human life, and its health affects the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. By Ronald Vargas Soil degradation: the silent global crisis Soil Atlas 2024 Soil degradation is a major but largely neglected global problem that threatens agricultural productivity, food security, and ecosystem health. Around one-third of soils worldwide are degraded, with over 40 percent located in Africa. By Harun Warui Desertification: Europe is drying out Soil Atlas 2024 While desertification is a problem most commonly associated with Africa or Asia, it is not limited to these regions. Intensive agriculture and the climate crisis have also led to severe soil degradation and desertification in Europe. And not just in southern Europe: even countries with temperate and humid climates, such as Hungary and Bulgaria, are affected. By Victor Castillo and María José Sanz Sánchez Climate adaptation: soil and water, a crucial symbiosis Soil Atlas 2024 As the climate crisis intensifies around the world, severe storms and flooding are becoming more frequent. Healthy soils can help buffer the effects of extreme weather. For that reason, soil protection is more important than ever. Yet, it is still neglected. By Larissa Stiem-Bhatia and Inka Dewitz Corporate power: when culprits benefit Soil Atlas 2024 Overuse of artificial fertiliser is bad for soils and, in the case of nitrogen fertilisers, for the climate as well. Moreover, pesticides deplete the soil of beneficial organisms. Yet these products earn big money for big companies, which influence governments, often blocking policy changes needed to protect people and the environment. By Lena Luig Nitrogen fertiliser: global dependencies Soil Atlas 2024 Synthetic fertilisers harm the climate, but industrial farming relies heavily on them. Additionally, higher fertiliser prices have pushed up prices for food commodities. African countries, where food crises intersect with debt crises, are hit especially hard. By Lena Bassermann and Gideon Tups Phosphorus: extractivist agriculture Soil Atlas 2024 Phosphorus is bioessential, meaning that all living organisms require it. Yet, despite its presence in soils, it is a relatively rare element on Earth and is not always found in a form that plants can absorb. The fertiliser industry produces easily soluble phosphorus but depends on a finite, non-substitutable resource: phosphate rock. By Axel Anlauf Green fertilisers: not a quick fix Soil Atlas 2024 The production of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions upstream. But it does not solve the problems associated with excessive use of synthetic fertilisers, such as diminished soil health, biodiversity loss, on-field greenhouse gas emissions, nitrate pollution, and overdependency on external inputs. By Lisa Tostado Land grabbing: the race for hectares Soil Atlas 2024 Land has been heralded as a crisis-proof investment around the world. However, these deals often make money for the wealthy few, while pushing local people off their land and into poverty. Countries like Germany, Singapore, and the United States are complicit in such land grabs. By Roman Herre Land sales: just another commodity? Soil Atlas 2024 The phenomenon of large companies and investors buying up vast tracts of arable land in the Global South has long been seen as a problem. In Germany, too, this kind of land grabbing is on the rise, with small and medium-sized farms pushed out. A reorientation that prioritises the common good is needed. By Jan Brunner , Gesine Langlotz and Anne Neuber Climate policy: conflicts between demand for land and people's rights Soil Atlas 2024 Soil plays a major role in protecting the environment. It serves as carbon reservoirs, the plots into which trees are planted, and a steward for producing climate-neutral fuels. But land-intensive climate action can give rise to conflicts and erode people’s rights. Even so, there is yet to be a resolution for this mounting global challenge in sight. By David Betge , Frederike Klümper and Dr. Jes Weigelt Soil carbon credits: blessing or curse? Soil Atlas 2024 The world’s soils store more carbon than its forests, and this storage capacity is increasingly discussed as a contributor to climate protection. Tradable carbon credits were designed to incentivise the build-up or retention of carbon in the soil. However, they may in fact undermine efforts to reduce emissions. By Sophie Scherger and Larissa Stiem-Bhatia Human rights: rights versus reality Soil Atlas 2024 Equitable access to land and fertile soil is fundamental to realising human rights, such as the right to food. Although numerous United Nations declarations on land rights have been ratified by national governments, deadly land conflicts persist throughout the world. By Dr. Jes Weigelt and Frederike Klümper Women and land: protecting rights, protecting soils Soil Atlas 2024 Secure land access is essential for long-term soil protection because it enables land users to implement practices that enhance soil health and maintain its productivity over time. However, in many African countries, women’s land rights remain precarious, creating significant barriers to investing in sustainable soil management. By Larissa Stiem-Bhatia , Kader Baba , Serah Kiragu-Wissler and William Onura European Union: Soil protection? Wanted! Soil Atlas 2024 Protection measures for climate, water, and biodiversity have been enshrined in EU law – in some cases, for decades. But a comprehensive legal framework for soil protection is still lacking. Previous attempts to create one have been torpedoed, while most existing policies are toothless. By André Prescher-Spiridon Agroecology: policies that keep soil alive Soil Atlas 2024 Agroecology is a response to an industrial model of agriculture that exploits people and damages soils. In Brazil, agroecology is making significant breakthroughs in social and environmental terms. But one thing is already clear: government policy is needed to promote agroecology and confront the agroindustrial model. By Júlia Dolce and Lucas Gattai True costs: hidden effects Soil Atlas 2024 Land degradation has numerous invisible costs – environmental, health, social, and economic. True Cost Accounting renders these costs visible, offering a clearer picture of the impact of land degradation. By Olivia Riemer , Marlene Ohlau , Jenny Lay-Kumar and Mark Schauer Sustainable soil restoration: reviving India's soils for a better future Soil Atlas 2024 Modern farming techniques were introduced to India during the Green Revolution of the 1960s to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. However, the overuse of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, alongside the cultivation in monocultures, severely damaged soil health. In response, many farmers are moving back to alternative soil management practices. Political support for this transition is growing, but requires more flame to ignite change. By Pratik Ramteke and Ashok Patra Regreening the desert: land and soil restoration in the Sahara and Sahel Soil Atlas 2024 The Sahara Desert is expanding, thereby threatening millions of people’s lives and livelihoods. While many large-scale initiatives have been launched to combat desertification, most lack secure funding. Bottom-up techniques, implemented by local farmers, show how Indigenous knowledge can drive restoration. By Mawa Karambiri Soilless agriculture: revolution or illusion? Soil Atlas 2024 Vertical indoor farming enables crops to grow all year round. It requires less space and promises to reduce water, fertiliser, and pesticide use, thus protecting both climate and soil. But this must be part of a larger transformation of food systems. By Lena Luig and Christian Sonntag 3 Questions on the US election results to Sergey Lagodinsky MEP 3 Questions The victory of Donald Trump in the 2024 US elections will undoubtedly have consequences in transatlantic relations, from foreign and security policy to green transition and competitiveness. We asked 3 questions on the consequences of Trump 2.0 for Europe to German Green MEP Sergey Lagodinsky, who is a member of the EP Delegation for relations with the United States. By Joan Lanfranco and Sergey Lagodinsky The EU and Azerbaijan as energy partners: short-term benefits, uncertain future Analysis Azerbaijan has strengthened its energy ties with the EU since 2022, ramping up gas deliveries and articulating ambitions to export renewable energy and green hydrogen to Europe in the future. However, the EU’s shrinking gas demand and Azerbaijan’s lack of a genuine decarbonization strategy cast uncertainty on the long-term prospects of this partnership. By Yana Zabanova Europe’s energy transition needs deeper integration. The North Sea is where it could start Commentary Cross-continental energy networks are the backbone of Europe’s energy transition. With the accelerated roll-out of solar panels and wind turbines, policymakers and grid operators now feel the back pain from limited energy infrastructure capacities. How can the EU rehab our existing electricity grids and gas pipelines? Two new publications from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union provide guidance. By Jörg Mühlenhoff How Saudi Arabia’s Neom Giga project became a global showroom of false climate solutions Analysis Alongside other European powers, the UK is helping to supercharge Saudi Arabia’s attempt to hijack the global sustainability agenda. By Lyse Mauvais Böll EU Newsletter 8/2024 - US elections special edition Newsletter As we approach the US presidential election, it's clear that its implications will extend far beyond American borders, resonating profoundly within Europe. This election represents a critical juncture for Europe’s political and economic landscape, especially concerning the future of Ukraine and the broader European security order. By Roderick Kefferpütz Net zero and energy bills: more payback, less push back Commentary To win hearts and minds, and to prevent green backlash, net-zero policies must translate into lower bills and better services for ‘ordinary’ households. An inclusive demand flexibility strategy is vital to this. By Sophie Yule-Bennett and Euan Graham Reindustrialisation, battery factories and Hungary's workforce gamble Background Hungary's ambitious plan to reindustrialise hinges on bringing in hundreds of thousands of migrant workers. However, this strategy faces a significant hurdle: a society already grappling with deep-seated distrust, both among its citizens and towards the influx of foreign labour. By Péter Vigh Hidden hazards: Disinformation and waste in Hungary's battery boom Background Explore the untold environmental and health risks of Hungary's rapidly growing battery industry. Our 2024 Climate Disinformation Fellow Péter Vigh uncovers government data that reveals the widespread presence of hazardous waste, raising serious concerns about the sustainability of an industry vital to the green transition. With battery production set to shape Hungary’s future, why are the dangers being kept in the dark? By Péter Vigh Mining lithium, undermining a democratic future: EU deal takes Serbia further from Europe Analysis The lithium deal brings a new quality to Serbia’s foreign policy zigzagging. At one stroke, Serbia became a strategic partner and the guarantor for the future of the European Green Deal. By Dr. Vedran Dzihic Energy leadership quest takes Saudi Arabia from big oil to big hydrogen Analysis Saudi Arabia's climate policy is ever more oriented towards green mega projects and high-profile investments in hydrogen, but is it a mere rebranding of existing energy policies? Read the piece by our 2024 Climate Disinformation Fellow Lyse Mauvais. By Lyse Mauvais The last stretch: reaping the benefits of the sustainable finance framework Analysis The EU has already taken important actions for private finance to support the transition to a greener economy, and it cannot waste this one chance to finish the work. The sustainable finance legislative framework could help boost the European economy going forward – it is the last stretch before reaping the benefits of the efforts made so far. By Vincent Vandeloise The three building blocks for Europe's mobility transition in the next years Analysis Carbon emissions from transport will still account for 44% of Europe’s total in 2030. The sector's decarbonisation comes with broad challenges, including industrial transformation to scale new technologies, secure local green jobs, and ramp up new supply chains. Transport & Environment's Julia Poliscanova looks at the building blocks of a successful mobility transition for the next European Commission. By Julia Poliscanova The future of the EU trade and sustainability agenda in turbulent times Analysis The outgoing European Commission has upscaled the use of unilateral trade instruments to achieve security, competitiveness and sustainability objectives. In times of environmental crises and rising geopolitical tensions, the incoming European Commission should implement the ambition to embed European trade within planetary boundaries and revive international cooperation around environmental trade goals. By Simon Happersberger and Eleanor Mateo Böll EU Newsletter 7/2024 - Competitiveness or Green Deal? I'll have both! Newsletter We are in the midst of a fundamental global political and economic re-ordering. Revisionist states are challenging the geopolitical order and questioning the territorial status quo in Europe and Asia. Economic competition on the world market is fierce, as evidenced by the struggles of traditional European industrial powerhouses such as Volkswagen and ThyssenKrupp. Cracks in the foundations of European prosperity are emerging. The days when Europe could outsource its security to the Americans, benefit from cheap Russian energy, and easily sell its goods to the world are ending. Europe needs to rethink its foundations. This means investing in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and defence. But this cannot be done on the cheap. By Roderick Kefferpütz 3 Questions on the Draghi report on European competitiveness to Sander Tordoir 3 Questions European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tasked Mario Draghi, former President of the European Central Bank and former Italian Prime Minister, to write a comprehensive report on the state of the European economy. In this long-awaited report, the Italian economist provides a substantive analysis on how a changing geopolitical landscape, an energy shock, demographic change, climate change, and international competition put stress on the European economy and the European social model. We asked Sander Tordoir, Chief Economist at the Centre for European Reform, for his first reactions to the report. By Anton Möller and Sander Tordoir Böll EU Newsletter 6/2024 - Greening the von der Leyen II Commission Newsletter Habemus presidentem: With 401 votes in favour, the European Parliament has reconfirmed Ursula von der Leyen as the president of the European Commission. This vote was not a given. Unable to rely on the support of the super grand coalition of conservatives, social democrats, and liberals alone, von der Leyen went out of her way to secure Green votes in particular. By Roderick Kefferpütz How Scotland can get its energy for renewables back Commentary Scotland has been a pioneer in renewables, says Kirsten Jenkins. But the easy wins are over and the task of decarbonising Scotland’s economy is becoming steadily more difficult, as the row over net zero targets showed. Nonetheless, the potential to build on its record is clear and the obstacles are not insurmountable. By Kirsten Jenkins European elections 2024: A wake-up call Analysis After the European elections, the democratic and pro-European forces in the European Parliament (EP) have been weakened. They must make cooperation much more binding in order to ensure reliable majorities for an effective EU. By Jan Philipp Albrecht , Eva van de Rakt , Roderick Kefferpütz and Marc Berthold Greens in the EU election: down in the West, up in the East, South and North Analysis 2019 was an extraordinary election year for the European Green Party, and it was clear from the beginning of the 2024 campaign that it would be tough to match it again this year. While the Greens lost seats overall, most of the losses were concentrated in Germany and Western Europe, while the bloc was able to pick up new seats in the South and East. By Tobias Gerhard Schminke European Parliament elections: climate policies will suffer Analysis With the European Parliament tilting towards the right after the EP 2024 elections, there is a significant risk that the EU may shift towards a stance less favourable to assertive climate action. By Paul Hockenos Böll EU Newsletter 5/2024 - What comes after the election? Newsletter Today, citizens will start heading to the polls to vote for the next European Parliament. The outcome will in part determine the political correlation of forces in Europe over the next five years. If current projections hold true, we will not only witness a rightward shift within the EP but also more fragmentation. Instead of seven political groups, key officials in the parliament administration expect there to be nine. These tendencies will affect political majorities. By Roderick Kefferpütz 3 Questions on fair participation in Europe’s energy transition to Claire Roumet 3 Questions When the EU accelerates its shift to a clean and efficient energy system, how can citizens benefit better from this transition? Local authorities play a key role in facilitating citizens’ access to renewables and energy savings measures. Jörg Mühlenhoff asked three questions to Claire Roumet who is part of the Overall Coordination Team of Energy Cities, the network of several hundred European municipalities gathering frontrunners and energy transition beginners, city officials and technical experts. By Jörg Mühlenhoff and Claire Roumet Strengthening citizens’ participation in the EU’s energy transition – a toolbox Analysis Europe’s switch to renewable energy supply and efficient energy consumption is gaining momentum, not only as a result of the European Green Deal but also in reaction to the fossil fuel price crisis. EU legislation already creates some opportunities for citizens to access affordable renewable energy more directly, as well as to facilitate energy savings through, for example, building renovation. By Taube Van Melkebeke and Jörg Mühlenhoff How to stabilise the cost of living by sharing energy and food Analysis It is high time for an out-of-silos approach to boost the added value from solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop installations. This analysis suggests a new solidarity model allowing citizens, local retailers and farmers to tap into the benefits of solar electricity. By Guillaume Joly Flood of disinformation – Southern Brazil climate emergency aggravated by disinformation Analysis In May 2024, Brazilians stood by in astonishment as they witnessed yet another example of a climate emergency: the damage caused by the rains in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil's southernmost state, bordering Uruguay and Argentina. The tragedy has also fostered another phenomenon of our times that is very devastating: disinformation. By Manoela Vianna Freedom, security and prosperity don‘t come for free President's column Infrastructure deficiencies are paralysing Germany. But as a result of the Schuldenbremse (debt brake), urgently needed investments – including to boost climate protection – are to be postponed. This is both risky and economically short-sighted. By Jan Philipp Albrecht The blind spots of a common EU industrial policy Analysis Europe can die. This was the warning issued by Macron in his second Sorbonne speech. However, it is not only Europe that can die, but also its industry. So far, Europe is falling behind in the race for future markets such as green and digital technologies and biotechnology, and is instead becoming strategically dependent. The European Union must use the next legislature to build an industrial policy worth its name, even if this means a historic turn. By Jonathan Barth Böll EU Newsletter 4/2024 - Show me the money: Europe's financing challenge Newsletter From Russia’s war in Ukraine to the green and digital transformation, we’re not short on challenges nowadays. What we are lacking is the vast sums of money needed to deal with them. The EU requires an estimated 500 billion euros a year for the green transition, while NATO’s European members need to find another 56 billion euros annually to meet the alliance’s 2% defence spending target. By Roderick Kefferpütz Climate change in Italian politics: polarisation, demonisation and repression Analysis If smart politics and scientific evidence went hand-in-hand, decarbonisation would be understood as a political issue that transcends party lines. Yet in the run-up to the EU elections, a political division over this issue seems to be emerging, both at an EU level and within the member states. By ECCO Europe before the elections: Questions and consequences for the economy Interview Five years after the European Green Deal was launched, Europe's economic strength and security are at stake. What lies ahead for the German and European economy? A conversation with Sandra Parthie and Roderick Kefferpütz. By Phillip Käding , Sandra Parthie and Roderick Kefferpütz Trade unions, collective bargaining and the green transition in the next EU legislative period Commentary The climate emergency is the number one policy priority, requiring a fundamental overhaul of our economic system. During the Val Duchesse Social Partner meeting, the European Commission announced the creation of a Social Dialogue envoy. However, the roles of social dialogue and collective bargaining remain underappreciated, and the European Institutions need to focus on strengthening the role of trade unions in shaping the just transition throughout the next legislature. By Béla Galgóczi How the next European Commission could secure clean and affordable energy for all Analysis At the end of the current legislative term, the disagreement within the bloc of 27 EU Member States on many climate and energy issues can hardly be hidden. However, new momentum is urgently needed to cut EU emissions, keep industries competitive and protect prosperity. With our 100% Renewable Energy Action Plan for the next European Commission, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe, DUH) put forth priority actions for the following legislative term. By Jörg Mühlenhoff 100% renewables: the way forward to fix Europe’s energy and climate issues Analysis When confronted with energy price explosions and the climate crisis, the EU cannot waste time and money on castles in the air. Instead of betting on unproven solutions far from market introduction, such as small modular reactors and the broad deployment of all kinds of carbon removal technologies, the EU should build on what works right now. Renewable energy sources have proven to be by far the most relevant and reliable solution. In our new 100% Renewable Action Plan for the next European Commission, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe) describe what needs to happen after the 2024 European elections to harvest the benefits of renewables. By Jörg Mühlenhoff Sustaining tomorrow: the imperative for the EU to uphold its 2030 goals for a sustainable food system Analysis The EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy was designed to ‘accelerate the transition to a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system’. It sets a range of targets to be met by 2030, underpinned by a mixture of new or revised laws, and non-legislative initiatives. As the current European Commission nears the end of its mandate, this article proposes how the next European Commission, from 2024–2029, should carry forward the goals of the Farm to Fork Strategy, and actions to meet its targets, especially as the EU is currently stalling many of its aspects in light of recent farmer protests. By Harriet Bradley From climate action to feminist justice Report This article discusses the potential of a feminist approach to climate justice and feminist foreign and development policy. The authors, Gina Cortés Valderrama and Katy Wiese, argue that feminist perspectives are essential in addressing economic rights, energy transition, and climate-related damages and losses. By Miriam Mona Mukalazi Böll EU Newsletter 2/2024 - New EP elections dossier! Newsletter In fewer than 100 days, Europe’s citizens will go to the polls to elect their representatives to the European Parliament. The outgoing parliament faced historic challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic to Russia’s war in Ukraine. It rose to the occasion, advancing key legislative proposals and promoting the European Green Deal as a flagship project. By Roderick Kefferpütz "We all must fight for our democracy" Interview The Europe that will go to the polls in June 2024 is very different from that of 2019. Pandemic recovery, the climate and energy crisis, war in the continent, and the rise of the far right are all driving the narratives of the electoral campaign, but also mobilising progressive forces. Roderick Kefferpütz interviews MEP Terry Reintke, Co-President of the Greens/EFA Group and Spitzenkandidatin for the European Greens, on Green solutions for Europe in uncertain and volatile times. By Roderick Kefferpütz and Terry Reintke Böll EU Newsletter 1/2024 - Defending Europe in uncertain times Newsletter The fabric of the European security order is fraying. Putin’s imperialist revisionism threatens Europe. Trump is undermining US security guarantees for Europe. And Orbán’s vetoes are impeding European action. This is nothing new; the writing has been on the wall for a long time. What has changed is the urgency. Putin’s revisionism, Trump’s erraticism, and Orbán’s obstructionism are coming to a head. It’s crunch time. By Roderick Kefferpütz A vision for delivering the European Green Deal in the new EU policy cycle Analysis With the European elections just around the corner and the subsequent appointment of a new European Commission, the next phase of the European transition to climate neutrality is about to begin. This article touches upon some key topics and challenges that lie ahead in the near future to ensure an effective implementation of the European Green Deal (EGD). By Mattia Bonfanti and Irene Chiocchetti Southeast Europe: Plundering the Western Balkans Analysis Corrupt politicians have been systematically plundering public budgets and natural resources in the Western Balkans for years. Increasingly, international actors are also discovering an El Dorado for dubious investments in these countries. By Marion Kraske The bebt brake must not become a brake on the future President's column With the floods in northern Germany, the relaxation of the country’s debt brake is back on the agenda. But instead of always returning to the same debates, what is finally needed is sustainable reform. A new study shows what this could look like and sets out the options for financing climate protection over the short term. By Jan Philipp Albrecht Smart, fair and flexible: lessons from the smart meter rollouts in Great Britain Analysis Smart energy technologies can enable citizens to benefit from cheap renewable energy. They potentially optimise the use of our energy infrastructure, promising lower societal costs. However, one-size-fits-all solutions will not work when it comes to their daily use – with potentially significant risks to vulnerable households already struggling with fuel poverty. An inclusive smart energy transition should target the consumers most in need with more nuanced policies. By Nickhil Sharma Our best wishes for 2024 Greetings 2023 was a particularly challenging year. With the highest number of conflicts since 1945, we saw a world at war. It was the hottest year in recorded history, with “climate records tumbling like dominoes”. Challenges don’t disappear with a new year; we know that 2024 will be demanding. This year’s super election cycle is also testimony to the resilience of democracy and offers an opportunity for like-minded states to come together to solve shared challenges. By Roderick Kefferpütz Forests vs palm oil Report Deforestation — the widespread clearing of forests for various purposes — has become a critical global issue with profound environmental, social, and economic consequences. Driven by factors like agriculture, logging, and urban expansion, this destructive practice exacerbates climate change, threatens biodiversity, and jeopardizes communities worldwide. In this report, we explore the multifaceted reasons why deforestation requires immediate attention and action. By Michael Anthony and Marcus Pfeil ‘Fire on fire’: how migrants got blamed for Greece’s devastating blazes Climate Disinformation Media Fellowship 2023 In August, wildfires in Evros killed a group of people, including children, passing along a well-trodden migration route. Locals and politicians made the victims scapegoats for the disaster. First piece of our 2023 Climate Disinformation Fellowship by Giorgos Christides and Katy Fallon. Photos by Alexandros Avramidis. By Giorgos Christides and Katy Fallon Laundering captured carbon: how CCS produces more oil Analysis Though many authors write that captured CO2 can and is being safely buried deep underground in geologic formations or depleted oil and gas reservoirs, most articles fail to mention that the overwhelmingly single biggest use of all captured CO2 is to directly produce more oil. By L. Michael Buchsbaum State of the Union address: Ursula von der Leyen’s bid for a second term in office Analysis In her address, European Commission President von der Leyen missed the opportunity to develop bold proposals for the future. This contribution analyses her informal bid for a second term in office by looking at her thematic focuses. By Roderick Kefferpütz , Lisa Sandtner , Anton Möller , Zora Siebert , Melanie Bernhofer and Hannah Goerlich Peatland protection pays off - Massive conservation and restoration is needed Press release With more than two billion tonnes of CO2, the draining of peatlands is responsible for about 4% of all human-made emissions globally. This is outlined in the Peatland Atlas 2023 - Facts and figures on wet climate guardians, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, the Michael Succow Stiftung (partners in the Greifswald Mire Centre) and BUND (Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland/Friends of the Earth Germany), with support of the Global Peatlands Initiative. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung , Succow Stiftung , BUND für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland and Global Peatlands Initiative Of mires and myths: not just a crime scene Peatland Atlas 2023 For thousands of years, peatlands have served as the backdrop for horror stories. In gruesome legends and lore, they swallow people and even whole towns, are the home of ghosts, the devil, and many other supernatural spectacles. By Elmar Tannert Transformation: a feasible opportunity - without alternative Peatland Atlas 2023 Rewetting drained peatlands will be a major challenge for societies all over the globe. Achieving success will take innovativeness, political initiative and a paradigm shift in the global economy. By Dr. Uta Berghöfer , Sabrina Hüpperling and Jan Peters Africa: guardians of biodiversity and climate stability Peatland Atlas 2023 Some of the world’s most important and most recently recognized peatlands can be found on the African continent. They are home to unique and rare flora and fauna – and threatened by the oil companies’ greed for money. By Irene Wabiwa Betoko , Samer Elshehawi and Inka Dewitz Southeast Asia: progress for peatlands Peatland Atlas 2023 By Faizal Parish , Serena Lew and Linda Archibald Latin America and the Caribbean: you cannot protect what you do not know Peatland Atlas 2023 From lowland swamps dominated by tall palms to the treeless cushion bogs of the high Andes, Latin America and the Caribbean are home to a huge range of peatlands. But relatively little is known about them – making conservation difficult. By Mónica Maldonado-Fonken and Cristina Malpica-Piñeros Europe: small continent, ancient landscapes Peatland Atlas 2023 Few peatlands in Europe are located within protected areas, and even there, they are not always protected adequately. National agricultural policies provide little or no support for the development of sustainable peatland-management practices. By Dr. Franziska Tanneberger and Asbjørn Moen North America: ice age legacy Peatland Atlas 2023 One-third of the world’s peatlands are in North America. Those landscapes close to urban areas have suffered severe degradation, and urgent repair work is needed to restore them. In the north of the continent, peatlands are increasingly threatened by the oil and mining industries. By Maria Strack , Marissa Davies and Curt Richardson Energy: scorched earth Peatland Atlas 2023 People have been using peat for heat since the Bronze Age. They still do so today in countries like Finland, Belarus and Rwanda. This is not sustainable – but there are new, climate-friendly ideas for how peatlands can help generate heat and power. By Monika Hohlbein Paludiculture: more from the marsh Peatland Atlas 2023 Reeds are used to make thatch for roofs, and grass fibres are used to make furniture: paludiculture combines peatland conservation with agriculture. Strong political support is needed to give this sustainable way of using rewetted peatlands a chance of success. By Anke Nordt and Susanne Abel European Union: defending diversity Peatland Atlas 2023 Europe is rich in peat landscapes, which differ widely according to the region and climate. But one thing that the European Union’s programmes to protect peatlands have in common is that they are not very effective. By André Prescher-Spiridon and Christian Rehmer Supply chains: the consequences of consumption Peatland Atlas 2023 The consumption and production of commodities such as timber are major drivers of deforestation and forest degradation. They also cause peatland degradation on a grand scale. By Lea Appulo and Thomas Westhoff Rewetting: fill it up to the top Peatland Atlas 2023 Drainage pipes and ditches are still being used to drain peatlands. Rewetting is urgently needed to protect both the climate and biodiversity. But how does this work – and what do we have to consider? By Jutta Walter and Mathias Büttner Forestry: peat, wind & fire Peatland Atlas 2023 Three percent of the world’s peatlands have been destroyed for forestry purposes, releasing large quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Drained peat soils are the scene of devastating fires that are used to clear land. By Harri Vasander Livestock: the cows that eat peat Peatland Atlas 2023 Our consumption of livestock products has an effect on the climate – through the emission of greenhouse gases and the conversion of natural landscapes into agricultural land. Even more greenhouse gases escape into the atmosphere when peatlands are drained to allow livestock-keeping or to grow fodder crops. By Dr. Sabine Wichmann Peat: peatlands' raw materials Peatland Atlas 2023 Peat consists of dead organic matter accumulated over thousands of years. Since centuries, peat soils have been exploited to obtain fuel or raw material for growing media. Peat extraction and use is harmful to the environment. Sustainable alternatives will only prevail if politicians act. By Greta Gaudig and Olivier Hirschler Environmental history: fallacies of improvement Peatland Atlas 2023 Humans have drained peatlands for centuries to provide land for farming and settlement. History may help us recognize the fallacies of supposed improvement, remember the presence of destroyed and often invisible peatlands in our landscapes, and advocate for the protection and restoration of peatlands. By Dr. Katja Bruisch Biodiversity: safe havens for ecosystem in danger Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands all over the world sustain a rich range of habitats and species, including a wide range of threatened and endemic ones. Policymakers are called upon to protect these unique landscapes. By Tatiana Minayeva Climate crisis: drained peatland results in heated planet Peatland Atlas 2023 Because they take up greenhouse gases, peatlands cool the climate – but only as long as they are intact. But these peat-covered areas have been – and still are being – drained for agriculture, forestry, peat extraction and human settlement, exacerbating global warming. By Hans Joosten Sustainability goals: live-giving moisture Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands and other types of wetlands foster biodiversity and protect humans and nature from drought and flooding. But they are some of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet. Current efforts to conserve them have so far proven inadequate. By Inka Dewitz and Dianna Kopansky Peatlands around the world: under threat almost everywhere Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands exist in the mountains, in lowlands, along rivers and at the coast. Their vegetation and condition vary from one climate zone to another, but all types of peatland have one thing in common: their continued existence is in danger. By Dr. Alexandra Barthelmes Peatland destruction: help needed Peatland Atlas 2023 Huge areas of peatland around the world have already been destroyed. In the tropics, peat swamp forests are being cut down and the land drained. Fires and climate crisis also pose threats. Attempts to protect the peatlands have so far had little success. By Heike Holdinghausen 12 brief lessons about peatlands Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands form in places where the ground is constantly wet. They are rich in species and can store carbon to help protect the climate. What are mires and peatlands? A very special ecosystem Peatland Atlas 2023 Mires are intact peatlands and home to rare plants, rare animals – and enormous amounts of carbon. But draining them for economic reasons puts them and their resident organisms at massive risk. It poses a massive threat to the climate too. By Greta Gaudig and Dr. Franziska Tanneberger Peatland Atlas 2023: Foreword Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands are a mixture of elements: they are both water and land at the same time. They form where the soil is wet all year round. Waterlogging prevents dead plant material from decomposing, creating their characteristic organic soils over thousands of years. And peatlands can be found all over the world, from the Arctic to Europe and the tropics, all the way to Tierra del Fuego at the tip of South America. They are impressive ecosystems, rich in rare animal and plant species. Their peat soils store enormous amounts of carbon, so they play a decisive role in climate protection – as long as they stay wet. By Dr. Imme Scholz , Antje von Broock , Jan Peters and Dianna Kopansky We still can safeguard our freedoms Commentary The catastrophic flooding in Italy shows how the climate crisis is already threatening our lives and quality of living here in Europe. We know what we need to do to slow it down. But the longer we wait, the greater the restrictions on our freedom will be in the future. By Jan Philipp Albrecht Roderick Kefferpütz, new Director of Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union Press release Roderick Kefferpütz is the new Director of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union office in Brussels as of 15 May 2023. He takes over from Eva van de Rakt, who has been Head of the European Union and North America Division at the headquarters of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Berlin since May 2023. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Roderick Kefferpütz “Social justice must be strengthened in European legislation” Interview In her interview with Dr. Christine Pütz, Terry Reintke, Co-President of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament, offers her opinion on the study “Actually European?! Citizen Expectations towards German EU Policy in the Context of Crisis and Transformation” and makes the case for Germany’s commitment to show its dependability and solidarity. By Dr. Christine Pütz and Terry Reintke Why the European response to the IRA must be more Europe Commentary The EU’s half-baked response to the U.S. investment offensive is putting its competitiveness and our future prosperity at risk. Now is the time for deeper European integration and major adjustments to EU treaty law. By Jan Philipp Albrecht Decarbonisation during and after the war: Where Ukraine is headed Interview Ukraine needs decarbonisation — the state's goal in combatting climate change and fulfilling its respective international commitments. Meanwhile, Russia's war against Ukraine continues, with infrastructure and housing being increasingly ruined, territories being mine-studded, and natural habitats being destroyed daily. That infrastructure would need rebuilding, which means increased emissions from construction sites and the operation of new enterprises. Alyona Vyshnytska interviews Oksana Aliieva, former coordinator of the Climate Change and Energy Policy Programme at the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung's Kyiv office, and Anna Ackerman, board member of Ecoaction NGO and policy analyst at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). By Alyona Vyshnytska Why renewable energy is a guarantee of security for Ukraine during and after the war Interview As of the end of December 2022, Russia's massive attacks in Ukraine had damaged or destroyed about 50% of the power system, including substations and high-voltage power lines. Every day, Russia continues to shell Ukrainian infrastructure, causing new damage. At the same time, Ukraine is already formulating a post-war recovery plan, including in the area of secure renewable energy. How to plan for recovery in the acute stage of war and will Ukraine be able to switch to 100% renewable energy sources after the end of hostilities? What can Ukraine and the European Union do to help? Read about this in an interview with Natalia Lytvyn, project coordinator of the NGO Ecoclub and the Energy Transition Coalition, and Kostiantyn Krynytskyi, head of the energy department at EcoAction. By Alyona Vyshnytska Developing a green vision of the Single Market Foreword Throughout the last three decades, the Single Market project has been discussed controversially: for some, it is the idea of a united Europe working together, whereas for others it is an elite-driven process that leaves many behind. However, for the green movement it was part of the promise to ensure the economic and social inclusion of Europeans, and a critical building block to an ever-closer European Union. Discussing the future of the Single Market therefore also means discussing the future of European integration as a whole. By Eva van de Rakt and Anton Möller It is time to update our Green vision on a circular market that delivers for citizens Essay Within the framework of the EU Green Deal, the Single Market is slowly turning into a tool to fight the climate crisis. In recent years, more and more legislation with regard to a circular economy has become law, enabling the green transition. But we have to do more. We have to fundamentally rethink our narrative of the Single Market, its role in the world and its way of delivering for the people. By Anna Cavazzini A Single Market 2.0 for the future: more social, more environmental and with a place for open strategic autonomy Essay The long cycle that began with the creation of the internal market, whose first phase brought opportunities for the social dimension but which ultimately led to global integration, resulting in a long period of anti-social policies, has come to an end. We are now entering into a new period, in which the rules of the internal market are changing in response to the need for environmental sustainability and strategic autonomy. The question now is what place the social dimension will occupy in this new architecture. By Philippe Pochet Let's undo the damage caused by the Single Market Essay There is little reason to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Single Market. We urgently need industrial policies that are truly European. This is essential, particularly in the fields of digital technology and ecological transition, which raises questions of means, in particular. We also need to change the competition policy to encourage consolidation of European companies, instead of fighting it. By William Desmonts A consumer perspective for the Single Market 2.0 Essay The Single Market has been a pillar of the EU since its conception. However, the focus so far has been on how to make it easier for companies to operate across the EU and the European Economic Area. Much more attention needs to be paid to the social and environmental dimensions of the Single Market, and this certainly includes consumers, who are the ultimate beneficiaries of its policies. By Agustín Reyna Thirty years of the Single Market: corporate complaints and deregulation pressure endanger the ecological transition Essay While it makes sense to celebrate 30 years of a border-free EU market for goods and services, there is also an urgent need for a critical assessment. This should start with discussing the limits of the Single Market, namely which areas of our societies should be covered by Single Market rules and which should not. By Olivier Hoedeman Towards a Single Market that works for the environment through ambitious product policy and standards Essay The EU Single Market needs profound reform. We must place reuse, refill and repair at its heart, and enable a digital transition that is green and just for everyone. One concrete step leading the transformation should be ambitious EU ecodesign requirements for products and services, supported by inclusive harmonised European standards, and properly enforced by national authorities. By Rita Tedesco and Ioana Popescu The Single Market as a global beacon: a view from the past – and across the Channel Essay When we look across the world, we see that social and environmental standards are far higher in the EU than in any other national or regional economy. It didn’t have to go that way, but our political power, skill and determination has turned the Single Market into a force for good. We should celebrate that achievement before moving on to consider the next 30 years. By Molly Scott Cato Pandemic, war and climate: transport in times of crises Analysis This analysis seeks to unravel the intricate web of factors influencing mobility in the wake of three transformative events - Covid-19, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, and the climate crisis. These events have had a profound impact on the way we move, and it is essential to understand the evolving patterns of travel, the resilience of transportation systems, the role of technology, and the policy responses that have emerged to address these challenges. By Philipp Cerny Africans ready to take the bull by the horn to COP27 Commentary Africa will host international climate talks on 6-18 November 2022 and the African Union has been busy trying to get the rest of the world’s attention on the continent's expectations in the lead up to COP27. Of course, COP27 expectations are matched only by their disappointments. However, Africans are not leaving the fate of its people to chance. By Michael Davies-Venn Europe must slash pesticide use to protect people’s and planet’s health Press release New ‘Pesticide Atlas’ by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, Friends of the Earth Europe and PAN Europe reveals toxic global impact of hazardous chemicals used in agriculture. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung , Friends of the Earth Europe and Pesticide Action Network Europe Pesticide-free regions: good examples Pesticide Atlas 2022 All over the world, projects are proving that an ecological future is possible: More and more cities, states, and regions are trying to slash pesticide use; or even ban chemical agents completely from their fields and land. By Ulrike Bickel EU policies: objectives are not enough Pesticide Atlas 2022 Even though the EU’s pesticide legislation is the most sophisticated, it has failed to achieve a reduction in use. The EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy seeks to change that. Many questions remain. By Clara Bourgin and André Prescher-Spiridon Digital transformation: who really benefits from digitalization Pesticide Atlas 2022 Agricultural robotics, drones, and algorithm-driven technologies for a new way of farming are becoming big business. They are supposed to help farms cut pesticide use, but there are serious doubts whether this will work. By Heike Holdinghausen Brazil: more cultivation, more pesticides, more exports Pesticide Atlas 2022 As one of the world’s largest importers of agrochemicals and exporters of agriculture goods, Brazil sets record for pesticide consumption. A significant part of the pesticides used there is produced in the European Union – and highly hazardous. By Larissa Mies Bombardi Youth survey: change wanted Pesticide Atlas 2022 Young people in Germany are worried about pesticide use in agriculture and call on politicians to take action. They demand more emphasis on ecological management of fields and plead for stronger support for farmers. By Dr. Anke Zühlsdorf , Dr. Dominic Lemken and Prof. Dr. Achim Spiller Gender: at the forefront of the exposure Pesticide Atlas 2022 Women working in agriculture often have lower levels of income and lack decision-making power. There is urgent need for gender equality to achieve food security and protection from pesticide exposure. By Ilang-Ilang Quijano Glyphosate: a manufactured controversy Pesticide Atlas 2022 Bayer and other companies are fighting for the re-approval of glyphosate in the EU. To do so, they must prove that their pesticide active substance is not carcinogenic. But the studies presented are old – and point to the opposite. By Helmut Butscher-Schaden Imports and exports: banned but sold anyway Pesticide Atlas 2022 Many pesticides are banned in the European Union. It is illegal to use them in EU Member States, yet it is allowed to produce and export them to third countries – where they pose great risks to people and their environment. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans Smallholder farmers: new markets, less regulation Pesticide Atlas 2022 In Africa, fewer pesticides are used than in other regions of the world. Nevertheless the 33 million smallholders are increasingly becoming the focus of pesticide companies. There they also sell what has been banned in the European Union. By Layla Liebetrau Genetic engineering: modified crops, more pesticides Pesticide Atlas 2022 Genetically modified crops were supposed to reduce the use of chemicals in agriculture, reduce workloads, and increase crop yields. These promises could not be kept. By Martha Mertens Hardly hazardous pesticides: a global human rights concern Pesticide Atlas 2022 Substances that are proven to present a particularly high level of acute or chronic risk to health or the environment are commonly referred to as Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). Far too rarely are these substances withdrawn from circulation – especially in the Global South they cause great harm. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans Insect decline: an ecological armaggedon Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insects provide pollination services to flowering plants, control pests and ensure abundant harvests. For a long time their populations have declined dramatically – causing disaster for humans and nature. Pesticides are considered a major reason for the decline. By Dave Goulson Long-range transport: gone with the wind Pesticide Atlas 2022 Pesticides rarely stay in the place where they have been applied. Wind can move dust, particles, and droplets to residential areas close to agricultural land – or carry it to places many kilometres away. Approval processes are largely ignoring this problem. By Johanna Bär , Johannes Heimrath and Anna Satzger Water: go with the flow Pesticide Atlas 2022 Studies regularly reveal how pesticides contaminate rivers, lakes, coastal waters and groundwater. The pollutants often originate in agriculture and enter surface water via infiltration, surface runoff and drift. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr Beneficial insects: nature's little helper Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insects such as ladybugs or predatory wasps act as natural enemies against pests and as effective plant protectors. They are good for the environment and help cutting costs – but their habitats are under threat from pesticide use. By Henrike von der Decken and Moritz Nabel Biodiversity: extinction in full swing Pesticide Atlas 2022 Experts have been warning for years that biodiversity is at stake. Pesticides have been identified as one of the causes for why the abundance of animals and plant species is deteriorating so quickly and disastrously. By Katrin Wenz Residues: toxic side dish Pesticide Atlas 2022 Pesticide use leads to residues in food to which many people are exposed – especially in the Global South. But as an import, contaminated food can also end up on European plates. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans Soils: impact on the invisible ecosystem Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insufficient attention is being paid to pesticides accumulating in the soil, where they exert direct and indirect adverse effects on soil life – sometimes for decades. By Johann Zaller Health: severe consequences Pesticide Atlas 2022 385 million people fall ill every year from pesticide poisoning. The United Nations intend to improve the worldwide handling of pesticides to prevent harm, but there is little effective legal regulation. By Wolfgang Bödeker Approval procedures: underestimated risks Pesticide Atlas 2022 Before they are put on the market, pesticides go through an approval process in which their impacts on human health and the environment are tested. But their indirect effects on food chains and biodiversity receive little attention, neither do the effects of pesticide mixtures that are hard to predict. By Carsten Brühl and Johann Zaller Pesticide use in the EU: noxious status quo for people and planet Pesticide Atlas 2022 The European Union is one of the world’s biggest markets for pesticides. Policies to reduce their use have not been very successful so far. The lack of standardized data makes monitoring and comparing countries difficult. By Lisa Tostado Corporations: big profits with toxic trade Pesticide Atlas 2022 The global pesticide market is growing – and there are only a few corporations that are dividing it up among themselves. They are increasingly investing in countries in the Global South, where pesticides are less strictly regulated. By Carla Hoinkes Pesticides and agriculture: dangerous substances Pesticide Atlas 2022 Parts of global crop production are lost to pests and plant pathogens each year. Pesticides have been designed to prevent these yield losses – but they also give rise to new problems. By Lisa Tostado 12 brief lessons about pesticides in agriculture Pesticide Atlas 2022 More and more highly toxic pesticides are being used in agriculture worldwide, although the consequences for our ecosystem are serious. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union , Friends of the Earth Europe , Pesticide Action Network Europe and BUND für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland Pesticide Atlas 2022: Foreword Pesticide Atlas 2022 The EU is the largest pesticide export market in the world, now investing more and more in countries of the Global South, where EU companies are allowed to export pesticides banned on their own due to their harmful effects on human health and the environment. A longstanding demand of international civil society calls for laws that effectively ban these toxic exports. By Jan Philipp Albrecht , Dr. Imme Scholz , Jagoda Munić , Dr. Martin Dermine and Olaf Bandt Will dirty nationalism become the new normal? Analysis The situation in the energy sector has led to national strategies that often conflict with the policies of neighbours and allies, and at the same time to a significant move away from clean energy sources. In other words, we have a "dirty nationalism", writes Martin Keim. By Martin Keim Challenges for cross-border railways in Europe European Mobility Atlas 2021 The technical problems with international rail in Europe are quite well understood. But are there ways to improve the situation while not challenging the fundamental status quo? Ways where, at the border, some basic changes could improve matters for international railway travellers? By Jon Worth Climate pragmatism or Faustian bargain? What the new US climate law does—and where it fails Analysis The Inflation Reduction Act is seen as an expression of climate pragmatism by some and a Faustian bargain with the fossil fuel industry by others. What exactly is it? By Liane Schalatek Governing the future of aerospace, the maritime industry and tourism European Mobility Atlas 2021 After the German federal elections in September 2021, the Greens joined a government coalition with the Social Democrats and the Liberals. MdBs Dr. Anna Christmann and Claudia Müller are respectively the new Federal Government Coordinators of German Aerospace Policy, and for the Maritime Industry and for Tourism. Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim conducted a joint interview to find out more about their priorities and thoughts. By Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim “The keyword must be greater European capacity for action” Interview Anna Lührmann, Minister of State for Europe and Climate at the German Federal government, talks to Christine Pütz about the results of the "Actually European?! 2022" study and what the citizens expect from Germany’s European policy at this “turning point in history”. By Dr. Anna Lührmann and Dr. Christine Pütz The Czech Presidency of the EU Council: Europe as a task Analysis On 1 July 2022, the Czech Republic took over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for six months. Our office Directors in Brussels and Prague, Eva van de Rakt and Adéla Jurečková, analyse the priorities of and challenges facing the Czech EU Council Presidency. By Eva van de Rakt and Adéla Jurečková Windfall profits in energy markets: acute symptoms of structural problems Analysis Energy prices in Europe have soared to new highs since the autumn of 2021, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine amplifying the trend and bringing energy supply to the forefront of conversations regarding the mitigation of impacts of the war on Europe. This study, based on data from Germany and Spain, shows that whilst electricity prices rose, so did the profits of energy companies. These developments were exacerbated by the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine but are also symptomatic for wider issues within the European electricity market. Windfall profit taxation can help to soften the blow of high energy prices, but we also need longer term restructuring of the market mechanisms, argues Suzana Carp. By Suzana Carp EU risks prolonging dependence on fossil gas rather than decisively moving towards alternatives Press release A new report by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (DUH) finds that current EU energy supply policies run the risk of prolonging dependence on fossil gas rather than decisively moving towards alternatives, particularly in the heating sector. Russian fossil fuels embargo: “Dictatorships fall when there is enough pressure” Interview Climate activists around the world are calling for an embargo on fossil fuels from Russia, because its profits are funding Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Climate policy expert Svitlana Romanko launched an ambitious campaign right after Russia's invasion began on 24 February 2022. By Alyona Vyshnytska Glimmerland: human rights in the mica supply chain Article A satellite image-based investigation by Vertical52 reveals the extent of child labor in illegal mines in India that produce mica, a critical mineral for the tech industry. The research illustrates the need for stricter rules for companies like the ones the EU proposes in its draft directive on corporate sustainability due diligence. The investigation also shows that comprehensive solutions have to go beyond import bans and corporate liability. By Sabine Muscat and Lisa Tostado Making mobility accessible to all European Mobility Atlas 2021 Every passenger aims to get from point A to B as quickly, easily and affordably as possible. For persons with reduced mobility, one cannot talk of fair and equal access. European mobility can only be sustainable if public transport is accessible for everybody. Otherwise, users will always revert to the solution of motorised private transport. Consequently, the freedom of mobility is strongly related to the question of accessibility to the different means of transport for everybody. By Stephanie Aeffner and Philipp Cerny Sanctioning Russian fossil may be costly, but it is feasible Commentary In the midst of a cruel war and an unfolding climate crisis, Europe has to answer a crucial question: how do we cut our energy ties with Russia, while at the same time accelerating our transition towards energy efficiency and a renewable energy system? Commentary by Green MEP Bas Eickhout. By Bas Eickhout How to break Czechia's dependence on Russian gas Analysis What longer-term, environmentally sustainable measures can the Czech Republic introduce to break its dependence on Russian gas while ensuring that no one is left behind? By Jiří Koželouh and Karel Polanecký The case for a Social Guarantee: Universal access to life’s essentials Paper The Social Guarantee refocuses progressive politics on human relations, on how we care for each other, and on the importance of investing in the social infrastructure on which the rest of the economy depends. It draws on current thinking about the foundational economy, the care economy, and sustainable economic prosperity It offers a coherent, ethical, and well-evidenced basis from which to address such issues as investment, regulation, and carbon mitigation. By Anna Coote Why Fostering Socio-economic Convergence in the EU Is Necessary for Successful Climate Change Mitigation Paper This paper has argued that an active industrial policy that is context appropriate, coherent, and adaptable can be utilised to address this challenge. Nevertheless, one must acknowledge that the necessary green transition on the EU level comes with transition costs, challenges, and opportunities that affect distinct people, firms, and countries very differently, and hence bears the threat of rising inequalities, both within and among countries. Central to the success of a green transition is, therefore, the EU’s adequate reaction to this fact. This reaction can then enable and facilitate a green transformation that really leaves no one behind. By Claudius Gräbner-Radkowitsch and Jakob Hafele Just Who Gets Paid-Off in a “Just” Transition? Some difficult lessons from BlackRock and French populists Paper This paper links two things that are often dealt with separately when discussing what we mean by the word “just” in the notion of a “just transition”. On the one hand, activists and reformers see this as an opportunity to empower marginalised populations and redistribute wealth-generating assets using the state in the form of green industrial policy. On the other hand lies private finance, especially in the form of asset managers, who own huge swathes of global companies. These competing notions of “just” are used as a way to discuss how to have a transition that leverages the investments of the private sector without once again simply giving capital everything it wants at the expense of everyone else. By Daniel Driscoll and Mark Blyth The Macroeconomics of a Green Transformation: The Role of Green Investment Paper A green transformation of the economy will require a major commitment to green investment to reduce and respond to environmental degradation. The main objective of this paper is to explore the macroeconomic implications of green investment in the transformation to a green economy. By Peter A. Victor Beyond Carbon Pricing: Six sustainability transition policy principles for net zero Paper Sustainability transition perspectives are receiving increasing attention in policy and practice. This paper discusses how they can be used to address the net-zero energy transition, which is an extraordinary challenge given its complexity and urgency. It highlights six key principles to guide “transitions based” decarbonisation policies: system transformation, effectiveness, sensitivity to context, adapting policies to transition phases, policy evaluation and learning, and politics. By Jochen Markard Climate Policy from a Keynesian Point of View Paper People may arrive in one or the other of these camps for many reasons. Advocates of the investment-centred approach tend to link climate policy to broader concerns over economic justice. Developments like the Gilets Jaunes protests in France, and more recent responses to rising energy prices in the wake of the war in Ukraine, have raised doubts about the viability of aggressive carbon pricing, making an investment-centred approach more attractive. More subtle, but equally important, are the different underlying economic visions behind the two approaches to climate policy. This paper brings these submerged differences to the surface. By J. W. Mason The Role of Financial Markets in a Green Transformation Paper What is the role of financial markets in a green transformation? There are two key aspects to this question. First, what should be the balance between private and public funding of the transformation? Second, what are the dangers that our modern financial market structure poses to a successful green transformation? By Carolyn Sissoko Green Central Banking Paper The green turn in central banking has generated considerable controversy. Some voices have questioned central banks’ growing engagement with climate issues, arguing that unaccountable technocrats do not have the tools or the political legitimacy to intervene in (or possibly highjack) the low-carbon transition. Others question the continued emphasis on voluntary decarbonisation, even among green champions in the central bank community. This paper intervenes in and nuances this “too little vs too much” debate. By Daniela Gabor Changing Europe’s Fiscal Rules: Unleashing public investment for a socially just Green Deal Paper This paper critically examines whether the European fiscal framework will be sufficient to stabilise the macro economy in the aftermath of the multiple crises, let alone achieve the goals of a green transition that leads to full capacity utilisation of the economy. The reader will come to understand that private finance alone is neither sufficient nor desirable to achieve the goals of a socially just green transition. By Frank van Lerven Winning the Marathon and the Sprint: Achieving long-term economic policy objectives in an era of short-term responses Paper This article wants to provide food for thought on what a long-term economic policy could look like. In the context of the climate crisis, increasing inequality, the loss of biodiversity and financial instability, the challenge is to craft a strategic approach that can set the course for long-term success. By Jonathan Barth , Jakob Hafele and Adam Tooze Making the great turnaround work: Preface Preface This publication series aims at contributing to the emergence of a transformative economic thinking, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions, after the wreckage of neoliberal economic thought that clearly has reached its date of expiry. It is the product of a collaboration of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, the ZOE Institute for future-fit economies, and Finanzwende Recherche. By Jörg Haas Sustainable Prosperity in an Uncertain Future: A shared agenda between green growth and degrowth Paper This paper attempts to overcome the polarisation between inclusive green growth and degrowth. The authors suggest that the idea of “post-growth” can serve as a unifying concept and define the pillars of a progressive economic policy agenda that can help Germany, the European Union, and the United States achieve their net-zero ambitions while ensuring prosperity and reducing inequality. By Jonathan Barth and Michael Jacobs The climate crisis and the war in Ukraine's common denominator: fossil fuels dependence Commentary The consequences of the war in Ukraine are palpable even in Bratislava, over a thousand kilometres from the border. Ukrainian is heard more often on the streets, cars with Ukrainian number plates are appearing on the roads, the windows of shops and apartments are festooned with Ukrainian flags, and the city is alive with marches and initiatives in support of Ukraine. The only thing that has remained unaffected is the flow of oil and gas from Russia to Slovakia, and our payments for it. By Dorota Osvaldová Away from Russian gas: Germany and Europe must swap their dependencies on fossil fuels for green energy partnerships Analysis As Germany moves away from Russian energy imports, new dependencies on fossil energies must be avoided. The potential alternative from energy-saving, renewables and European cooperation offers excellent opportunities in the short, medium and long terms. But this will require new, green energy partnerships built on a new foundation of values. By Sascha Müller-Kraenner and Constantin Zerger CAP Strategic Plans: Observation Letters under scrutiny Analysis On 31 March 2022, the 19 EU Member States that submitted their CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs) by the 1 January 2022 deadline received their awaited Observation Letters. In this article we discuss the implications of the European Commission backtracking on a transparent process and explore the content of Observation Letters that have been partially released. By Mathieu Willard Statement on the ban of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Russia Press release By banning the work of German political foundations, the Russian leadership is purposefully trying to block an essential, independent channel of communication between our societies. We deeply regret this further escalation by the Russian authorities. We will maintain contact with all those who are working courageously, creatively, steadfastly and with conviction for a different, peaceful and democratic Russia. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung The EU must do more to stop funding the Russian war in Ukraine! Interview With the EU’s ongoing purchase of Russian energy resources, the regime that is responsible for the current barbaric war in Ukraine is guaranteed a constant cash flow. Proponents of an embargo want to maximise the economic and financial pressure on Putin and withdraw financing from the Russian war machine. By Robert Sperfeld Ending Russia's war of aggression with economic and energy policy options Commentary The primary goal must be to stop the war of aggression on Ukraine launched by Russia on 24 February 2022. The sanctions of EU and NATO countries are currently in contrast to the dependence on Russian raw material and energy supplies. Hundreds of millions of euros flow from Germany to Russia every day, counteracting the effect of the sanctions. This should now be an incentive to reassess the costs of more radical fossil fuel exit scenarios in the shortest possible time under crisis conditions. By Walter Kaufmann Rethinking EU energy policy and energy efficiency: a Greek perspective Analysis The Russian invasion of Ukraine in late February 2022 brought home what most of us knew already but had assigned secondary importance to: renewable energy properly deployed is not only good for the environment and human health, it is also good for people’s pockets and their freedom. By Elias Gianniris and Georgios Kostakos Energy efficiency is the best choice for Europe’s energy sovereignty! Commentary The inability to adequately sanction the criminal invasion of Ukraine by Russian President Putin painfully demonstrates Europe’s massive dependencies from fossil fuel imports. Phasing out fossil fuels is no longer “just” about fighting the climate crisis, but also a precondition for Europe’s energy sovereignty and price stability. By Jutta Paulus The end of energy resource imports from Russia? Commentary On February 24, Russia started the war in Ukraine. Nothing will be the same again. Russia's brutal attack made the ongoing conflict around energy resources all the more obvious. This article analyses what options Poland has to break its energy dependence on Russia. By Dr. Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera and Dr. Aleksandra Gawlikowska-Fyk A Russian oil embargo: objectives and possible impacts Analysis The introduction of an oil embargo could significantly increase economic pressure on Russia. While the effect of an embargo on Russian military capabilities over the coming months would be minimal, it is unclear at present how long the war will last and whether it will spread beyond Ukraine. In the worst case, the West is currently financing a future war against itself. By Dr. Janis Kluge Green transition in the global framework Analysis The concept of “just transition” has so far arrived in Eastern and Southeastern Europe only as a fragment of nice environmental jargon. There is a lack of protagonists strong enough to create conditions for a more powerful social and political impact. In order to act within ecological limits and remain below a warming of 1.5° Celsius, we must also consume less. Until now, consumption, like growth, has been equated with well-being and prosperity. By Vedran Horvat Bosnia and Herzegovina: dismantling monopolies in the green transition Analysis Bosnia-Herzegovina wants to phase out fossil fuels by 2050. For the country, which is largely dependent on coal, this is a serious turning point. However, the word "transition", which is often used for this process, is rather hated by the population, because it is not associated with equality and justice, but rather with an enriching political elite. By Majda Ibraković Wallonia’s CAP Strategic Plan: better late than never? Analysis This article intends to shed some light on the bumpy road that led to Wallonia’s not yet finalised CAP Strategic Plan. Focussing first on understanding the delays, we’ll then expose how an originally inclusive debate has lowered itself to the level of their neighbour’s. Finally, we’ll take a look at the decision taken on coupled payments for livestock, what it implies in terms of economic sustainability and try to understand if this decision can be balanced by eco-schemes intervention. By Mathieu Willard and Matteo Metta The mobility of families: a key factor in the transition towards emissions-free cities and transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Small steps are necessary to implement big changes. More specifically, the steps of society’s youngest members. If the way families move shifts towards a more sustainable (and less car-centred) mode, a considerable reduction of emissions of the traffic sector can be achieved. By Hendrikje Lučić It’s time for climate competition with China Comment Brussels and Beijing are entering a new phase in their climate relations. Gone are the days when the EU and China were only climate partners. Now Brussels would be well-served to compete and spur China on when it comes to climate protection. By Roderick Kefferpütz How European security is changing Commentary Migration policy, economic and trade policy, health policy, technology policy, and climate policy are increasingly being thought of in terms of “security”. By Alice Billon-Galland , Rita Floyd and Hans Kundnani False solutions prevail over real ambition at COP26 Analysis COP26 in Glasgow started with a plethora of declarations. But in the end it failed to deliver on the real and immediate action needed to avoid climate catastrophe, and to address the demand for justice and equity for those most impacted by climate harms. By Erika Lennon , Sébastien Duyck and Nikki Reisch CAP beyond the EU | Precision agriculture: for whom precisely? Analysis The development and diffusion of precision agriculture might speed up since fresh money could become available through eco-schemes under the new CAP Strategic Plans. How does the EU support precision agriculture and what does it mean from a global south perspective? This article looks at the case of Rwanda and suggests technological developers and policy makers to proceed with caution to avoid widening inequality between smallholders and commercial farms, privacy breaches or undesired data dependency on tech giants like Google. By Hans Wetzels COP26 diary #4: A Global North greenwash festival? - Thoughts on communication around COP26 from a first-time attendee COP26 diary COPs are a time of a plethora of announcements, pledges and initiatives by countries, businesses and financial institutes. It is hard to keep up and even harder to distinguish between newsworthy reason for hope and old wine in new bottles. Lisa Tostado reports on the climate “communication nightmare” of welcoming progress while emphasizing the persistent astronomical gap to what would be Paris Agreement-compatible. By Lisa Tostado Jutta Paulus on COP26: “For leading by example, we must achieve our European Green Deal goals” Interview Lisa Tostado interviewed Green MEP Jutta Paulus her about her expectations and initial assessment concerning this year’s COP26, as well as the on role of the EU and particularly Germany in international climate negotiations. By Lisa Tostado COP26 diary #3: The most inclusive COP ever? - Thoughts on representation at COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary COP26 was supposed to be the “most inclusive COP ever”. Lisa Tostado reports on why the promised cannot be considered fulfilled and where inclusion and representation remain an issue to be addressed urgently. By Lisa Tostado The tragic consequences of EU funding on the environment in Hungary Commentary To avoid further environmental damages due to the use of EU money, the European Commission should suspend funding to the Hungarian government. By András Lukács COP26 diary #2: The heartbreak is hard to bear - Thoughts on climate justice at COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary Inequalities are striking in the climate crisis. Lisa Tostado unpacks them and reports on the action on payment of climate debt at the COP26 in Glasgow. By Lisa Tostado Geopolitical stakes of COP26 in Glasgow Commentary Global climate policy is the subject of multiple announcements put to the test over the course of these two weeks of COP26. Between the countries that have established carbon neutrality targets for 2050 (the United States and the European Union) and those looking to 2060 or further instead (Russia, China, India), the major challenge lies not in the deadlines, but in the translation of these dramatic promises into concrete actions. By Nidhal Attia COP26 diary #1: Carefully orchestrated procrastination? Thoughts on the beginning of COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary Lisa Tostado unpacks some basics in the first report during her attendance at this year’s COP26 in Glasgow. By Lisa Tostado Discourse matters: the net-zero agenda and Africa’s priorities Commentary Where in the global dialogue is the aspiration for adaptation, equitable climate finance and inclusivity? What practical actions will the global community take to address these cardinal objectives? For African countries - which have contributed least to climate change but remain most vulnerable to its impacts - these objectives are as important as net-zero ambitions. By Lily Odarno Learning from the UK’s exposure to the global gas crisis Commentary The causes of the current global gas crisis are now well understood. Europe finds itself the convergence zone of two supply challenges, related to a shortfall of pipeline supplies and simultaneously an inability to attract deliveries of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Consequently, going into winter storage levels are low, and prices are extremely high. But the UK has been singled out as being more vulnerable than most, why is this so and what lessons can be learnt from the current situation? By Michael Bradshaw EU non-compliance with the Paris Agreement Analysis The European Union has long sought to play a leadership role in the international climate change negotiations. For the time being, however, it is non-compliant with a procedural obligation under the Paris Agreement: to notify the UNFCCC secretariat of the individual emission levels allocated to each Member State. By Christoph Schwarte 10 things you need to know about hydrogen Listicle The EU and Germany aim to be climate neutral by 2050 and 2045, respectively. The commitment to climate neutrality means that zero-emission alternatives will replace emissions-intensive processes and products. One energy alternative is climate-friendly hydrogen. However, hydrogen is not an all-purpose miracle that solves everything at once. By Stefanie Groll From the roads to the rails: European freight transport and green logistics European Mobility Atlas 2021 For about two decades, the logistics industry has become more serious about sustainability. Although a validated definition of “green logistics” does not yet exist, the reduction of CO2 emissions can be regarded as an important part of the concept. In freight transport, heavy goods vehicles on roads are by far the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, while rail is the smallest. Nevertheless, the shift from road to rail – a central target of EU transport policies – struggles to get off the ground. By Werner Balsen Saving biodiversity Background With the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the global community wants to make a new attempt to halt the rapid and dramatic loss of ecosystems, species and genetic diversity, or biodiversity. By Lili Fuhr , Kristin Funke , Dr. Christine Chemnitz , Linda Schneider and Lisa Tostado Italian CAP plan in progress: too little, too late? Analysis On 11-12 October 2021, EU agriculture ministers are invited to share their views on design and approval of the CAP Strategic Plan, with emphasis on transparency and inclusion. With no sense of irony, this meeting will be held behind closed doors. Meanwhile Italy still limps along with its ‘tavolo del partenariato” (consultation forum). While a wide range of stakeholders are putting proposals on the table, the agri-industrial lobby is “cooking” in the kitchen. By Matteo Metta Not a moving target: the responsibility to respect human rights in the transport and logistics sector European Mobility Atlas 2021 Transport makes a significant contribution to global employment and provides economic opportunities for millions across the world, acting as a key enabler for trade, manufacturing and mobility. In Europe alone, the transport industry directly employs around 10 million people. However, the human costs of transport – both present and future – cannot be ignored. By Francesca Manta and Alice Pease Quality schemes – Who benefits? Central America, coffee and the EU Analysis This analysis explores whether and how mutually recognised quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs are creating enhanced trade benefits for third countries’ producer groups in the frame of the Common Market Organisation and Association Agreements of the European Union. A case-study on coffee protected by designations of origin in Central America. By Melina A. Campos Building blocks for a sustainable and resilient food system: the post-Covid opportunity for the European Union Commentary The build-up to the UN Food systems Summit 2021 has underlined why systems thinking is essential and action is required now, both concerning the ending of hunger and tackling the web of issues that contribute to sustainability. By Nora Hiller , Faustine Bas-Defossez and David Baldock CO2 performance standards and alternative fuels infrastructure proposals: the right direction, but lacking short-term ambition Analysis The European Commission's Fit-for-55 package proposal to go to 100% zero emission car sales from 2035 shows a serious commitment for reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, and will put European industry in the driving seat to dominate the new global electric vehicle (EV) market. While this move could democratise the purchase of EVs, policy-makers need to take a small extra step to ensure early build up of EVs to drive cost reductions and fully guarantee that chargers are available in the right locations. By Alex Keynes About soul and sovereignty: our reaction to Ursula von der Leyen’s 2021 State of the Union address Commentary In her 2021 State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen appealed to Europe’s soul, which, she said, has been tested to the core in times of multiple crises. The team of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union did its own soul-searching, pointing at the good, the not-so-good and the missing in von der Leyen’s speech. By Eva van de Rakt , Lisa Tostado , Martin Keim , Anna Schwarz , Zora Siebert and Joan Lanfranco Politicians underestimate methane as a climate killer Analysis While the EU's Fit-for-55 Package includes many important files, the European Commission postponed legislation on methane a particularly potent greenhouse gas to December 2021. This article summarises the issues at stake and argues that without stringent regulation on this gas, the Fit-for-55 Package will fail to reach climate goals. By Lisa Tostado The proposal for a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism fails the ambition and equity tests Analysis The proposal for a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is likely the most contentious element of the Fit for 55 package, with significant ramifications not only internally in the EU but beyond its borders. It is a long-discussed idea whose time has finally come as part of European Commission President von der Leyen’s European Green Deal grand bargain. By Tim Gore The revision of the Energy Taxation Directive could underpin a fair and green tax reform in Europe Analysis Tax systems across the EU are currently neither fair nor green. The burden of taxation has been steadily shifting in recent decades from corporate profits and personal wealth to labour income, especially of lower-income earners, helping to drive growing inequality across the EU. And with men disproportionately represented among the EU’s wealthiest citizens, the system helps underpin gender inequality too. By Tim Gore Meat Atlas 2021: Introduction Meat Atlas 2021 One of the key demands of Fridays for Future, the youth climate movement, is “Listen to science!” In the age of Covid-19, governments frequently consult scientists and adapt policies to their advice. Scientists have also been stressing for over a decade that a climate- and biodiversity-friendly diet contains less than half the amount of meat consumed in industrialized countries today. By Barbara Unmüßig , Olaf Bandt and Jagoda Munić 12 brief lessons about meat and the world Meat Atlas 2021 Main takeaways from the Meat Atlas 2021. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and Friends of the Earth Europe Meat consumption: everyday food and luxury good Meat Atlas 2021 The global demand for meat continues to rise due to economic and population growth, but at a slower pace than 10 years ago. Poultry accounts for an increasingly large share of consumption. Large differences remain in consumption per capita between countries and among population groups. By Lisa Tostado World trade: in lorries and ships Meat Atlas 2021 Trade in meat and live animals is relatively new and growing fast. Disease outbreaks, sanitary restrictions and trade policies can lead to big swings in trade flow. The big four players are China – which dominates import markets – as well as the USA, Brazil and the EU, which provide most exports. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz Mercosur: trading away the environment Meat Atlas 2021 The Association Agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries raises concerns with regards to meat and feed, as well as the rainforest and the climate. But the EU is worried about cheap imports, and resistance is growing. Whether the deal will actually come into force is questionable. By Bettina Müller and Lia Polotzek Production: problem foods and their producers Meat Atlas 2021 The world’s meat production has grown rapidly, fed by rising demand and made possible by technological advances in livestock farming. But this has had serious consequences for animal welfare and small-scale producers. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz Abattoirs: chopping but not changing Meat Atlas 2021 Covid outbreaks in abattoirs and processing plants are just the latest in a long list of problems in the meat industry. Low wages, hard work, and precarious employment are the price that workers pay to supply us with cheap meat. The industry is attempting to dodge its responsibility to provide decent conditions for its staff. By Dr. Peter Birke Meat waste: a lot less than the whole fog Meat Atlas 2021 The meat industry used to be famous for using “everything about the hog except the squeal”. But a large proportion of the livestock raised for food do not end up as food. Many die, or are killed, before they reach the slaughterhouse, and even more meat is wasted between the factory and the plate. By Dr. Jonas Luckmann Land conflicts: cutting down forests, carving up pastures Meat Atlas 2021 In South America, natural vegetation is being turned into pastureland and monocultures to support an unsustainable form of livestock production. In Africa and Asia, on the other hand, a sustainable form of livestock raising is losing ground to industrialized agriculture. Traditional local communities are the losers. By Thomas Fatheuer Companies: dominating the market from farm to display case Meat Atlas 2021 Global meat companies play a major role in determining how meat and feed are produced, transported and traded. Food is big business: the 100 largest food and beverage firms around the world include 10 main meat producers and processors. By Shefali Sharma Finance: big bucks for big firms Meat Atlas 2021 Big Meat attracts big money. Both private and public investors pour money into meat and dairy corporations, further boosting their market power and fuelling yet more consolidation in an already concentrated industry. The environmental and social damage caused by the industry is largely overlooked. By Mia Watanabe Feed: soy, forest, and savanna Meat Atlas 2021 More than a third of all crops worldwide end up in the stomachs of livestock. That includes one billion tonnes a year of soybeans and maize alone. The feed and livestock industries want to increase that even further. By Silvie Lang Climate: a lighter hoofprint Meat Atlas 2021 Livestock’s share of global greenhouse gas emissions is understated. The climate footprint of the animals and the feed they need is significant. There are ways to change that. By Shefali Sharma Water: thirsty animals, thirsty crops Meat Atlas 2021 All animal products have a water footprint: the amount of water needed to produce them. It is not just the total amount that is important, but the types of water that are needed. There is enough “green” water. But the volumes of “blue” and “grey” water should be kept low. By Heike Holdinghausen Pesticides: banned by Brussels, allowed in the Amazon Meat Atlas 2021 Pesticide applications are on the rise across the globe. Some of the most dangerous substances have been banned in the European Union, but are still being used on a large scale in other parts of the world. Many are intended for the cultivation of soybean and maize, which are destined mainly for use as livestock feed. By Carla Hoinkes Fertilizers: too much of a good thing Meat Atlas 2021 Nitrogen pollution from livestock manure is an increasing problem in many parts of the world. Countries in the European Union have lots of ideas on how to reduce such contamination of their environments. One approach is through closer monitoring of industrial livestock producers and restricting the amount of manure slurry that crop farmers are allowed to apply. By Dr. Thorsten Reinsch Rewetting: give peat a chance Meat Atlas 2021 Across the globe, peatlands are being drained for farming and raising livestock. But dried-out peat emits huge amounts of greenhouse gases. Agricultural policy should initiate the transformation to the climate-friendly use of these areas. By Dr. Sabine Wichmann Antibiotics: useless medicines Meat Atlas 2021 Antibiotics help to treat many diseases. The big problem: in both humans and animals, pathogens can develop antibiotic resistance – a fatal danger. And in industrial livestock production, these drugs are still not being used carefully enough. By Reinhild Benning Pandemics: dangerous contacts Meat Atlas 2021 Livestock production and meat consumption stimulate outbreaks of diseases that can be transmitted from wild animals to humans. Such zoonoses can have catastrophic consequences – as Covid-19 has shown. By Inka Dewitz and Dr. Christine Chemnitz Pastoralism: bounty from a barren land Meat Atlas 2021 Mobile herders move with their herds or flocks in the remotest of pastures. This form of animal production, known as pastoralism, is economically important and climate-friendly, but it is under severe threat. By Ilse Köhler-Rollefson Pastoralism in India: rangeland, not wasteland Meat Atlas 2021 India is the world’s largest exporter of buffalo, sheep and goat meat. Remarkably, the majority of this output is produced in traditional agropastoral systems. By Ilse Köhler-Rollefson and Kamal Kishore Active state: the political economy of transforming the meat system Meat Atlas 2021 Representative surveys in various countries have found a surprising amount of public support for reduced consumption of meat. Policymakers must find the right package and sequence of measures to stimulate the transition to a more sustainable future. By Dr. Lukas Paul Fesenfeld The European Union: common livestock policy Meat Atlas 2021 Intensive livestock production creates environmental and animal welfare problems. Reforms currently being considered to the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy do not go nearly far enough to resolve these. But improvements can be made even within the current system. By Prof. Dr. Harald Grethe Label: three stars for a better life Meat Atlas 2021 Buy meat from a supermarket, and you can probably choose between organic and non-organic. But with the non-organic products, you have no way of telling whether the animal was treated well, or was stuck in a pen with little room to move. Calls are growing for meat labels that show the conditions under which the animals are raised. By Katrin Wenz EU strategies: a good start, but could try harder Meat Atlas 2021 As part of its Green Deal, the European Commission has proposed a “Farm to Fork Strategy”. This is the EU’s most coherent attempt yet to respond to the fundamental challenges plaguing the food system. But much will depend on converting highgrand-sounding words into actual policies. By Stanka Becheva and Lisa Tostado Lab meat: cellstock vs livestock Meat Atlas 2021 Lab-grown meat is a disruptive innovation that could help resolve sustainability and health issues related to livestock, as well as reducing the numbers of animals farmed. But the sustainability gains do not yet match expectations. By Francesco Ajena and Philip Howard Insects as food: snacking on silkworms, lunching on locusts Meat Atlas 2021 Adding insects to our menus could help overcome the world’s food-supply problems. But the industrial production of insects is controversial: would it be useful or dangerous? By Hanni Rützler Meat substitutes: a new sector emerges Meat Atlas 2021 Vegan and vegetarian alternatives to meat are gaining popularity fast – making them tastier for big firms, too. Competition is likely to flare up around in-vitro meat: start-ups developing lab-grown products are sprouting everywhere. By Stephanie Wunder Activism: pressure from below Meat Atlas 2021 Civil society is a sometimes underestimated stakeholder in the food system. Supporting sustainable production and criticizing industrialized agriculture, it influences public opinion and habits and demands better policies and international solidarity. And it can hold governments and companies accountable for their actions, while offering solutions. By Stanka Becheva Survey on youth: changing habits Meat Atlas 2021 Young people in Germany – the “Fridays for Future generation” – eat less meat than their elders. Their attitudes and habits are likely to steer food consumption and policy in the coming decades. Results of a representative survey. By Prof. Dr. Achim Spiller , Dr. Anke Zühlsdorf , Dr. Kristin Jürkenbeck and Dr. Maureen Schulze Meat Atlas 2021 - Dissemination package Meat Atlas 2021 Dissemination package and social media visuals for the Meat Atlas 2021. European Green Deal: Integrate gender and intersectional approach into green budgeting and taxation Report chapter Green budgets refer to tools that aim to achieve environmental and climate objectives by analysing the environmental impacts of budgetary and fiscal policy choices. Budgeting can therefore be a tool to mainstream gender equality and environmental objectives at the same time. While taxation can also enhance gender equality and incentivise a green transition, this chapter focuses on the budget side due to the revenue structure of the European Union (EU), in the context of the European Green Deal, the EU Budget 2021-2027 and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. By Lisa Tostado and Katy Wiese “All aboard!” E-Ferry Ellen and the future of electric shipping Interview Electrifying European transport is a clear-cut way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Denmark, the pioneering electric car ferry “Ellen” connects the port of Fynshav and the island of Ærø. European Mobility Atlas 2021 Chief Executive Editor Philipp Cerny interviewed Halfdan Abrahamsen from the Municipality of Ærø’s Energy and Environment Office. By Philipp Cerny The European Green Deal's fitness test – Will the EU’s Fit-for-55 package ensure reaching the climate goal? Analysis On 14 July 2021, the European Commission will present its proposals for implementing the EU Climate Law - the so-called “Fit-for-55” package. This will be the starting signal for one of the most important EU debates of the next years: how can the EU reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and how can it become climate neutral by 2050? By Lisa Tostado and Martin Keim 10 questions about night trains that you always wanted, but never dared, to ask Q&A Night trains are on the rise again. This year, 2021, marks the European Year of Rail and the resurrection of important new night train connections, combined with fresh railway market entrants. Read on to learn more about this promising means of transportation. By Philipp Cerny CAP Strategic Plans: Germany Taking Steps in the Right Direction? Analysis In March 2021, the German Agriculture Ministers’ Conference and the Federal Ministry for Food and Agriculture agreed on important cornerstones for the country’s CAP Strategic Plan. While the resolutions have opened the door for a more ambitious CAP in Germany, it remains to be seen whether the federal and state governments will seize this opportunity when they decide on details still to be negotiated. By Prof. Sebastian Lakner 35 years after Chernobyl: “The experience of uncontrollability must be part of our debate” Interview 35 years on from the disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, our director Eva van de Rakt was in conversation with the Austrian Federal Minister for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology, Leonore Gewessler, and former Member of the European Parliament Rebecca Harms on the role, risks and dangers of nuclear power in Europe. By Eva van de Rakt The 7 reasons why nuclear energy is not the answer to solve climate change Analysis New nuclear power costs about 5 times more than onshore wind power per kWh. Nuclear takes 5 to 17 years longer between planning and operation and produces on average 23 times the emissions per unit electricity generated. In addition, it creates risk and cost associated with weapons proliferation, meltdown, mining lung cancer, and waste risks. Clean, renewables avoid all such risks. By Mark Z. Jacobson Russian nuclear power for the whole world – except Russia? Background In Russia, atomic energy is completely state-owned and paid for out of taxpayers’ money. The state corporation “Rosatom” comprises civilian and military nuclear technology companies. It is the world’s largest producer of nuclear power plants (NPPs) and its activities extend more to projects in other countries than in Russia itself. Thanks to large capacities for uranium enrichment, which remained in Russian hands after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Rosatom currently controls 17% of world production of nuclear fuels. By Vladimir Slivyak Mycle Schneider: "Every euro invested in nuclear power makes the climate crisis worse" Interview Can nuclear energy help us meet climate goals? Mycle Schneider, editor of the annual World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR), which assesses the status and trends of the global nuclear power industry, says no. Interview courtesy of DW. By Gero Rueter Nuclear Power in the European Union Analysis The issue of nuclear power has been with the European Union since the very beginning of the nuclear age. Where are operating nuclear power plants in the world? Who is building new reactors? What happened in the European region after Chernobyl and the fall of the Berlin Wall? By Mycle Schneider The Czech Nuclear Republic Commentary While many European countries are phasing out nuclear energy, either for political or economic reasons, Czechia is hoping to go in the opposite direction. Nuclear reactors are proclaimed – and also perceived by much of society – to be a clean and safe source of energy. How did this come about? By Edvard Sequens and Žaneta Gregorová Ukraine’s nuclear impasse Analysis What is the problem within the construction of units 3 and 4 of Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine? To understand the situation around this it is necessary to have clear picture of Ukrainian nuclear sector in general. By Oleksandra Zaika Nuclear weather in France: no clouds in sight Commentary Thirty-five years ago, a few days after the Chernobyl disaster, authorities throughout Europe alerted the population to the radioactive cloud. All of them? No. In France, where more than thirty nuclear reactors were already in operation, the authorities waited several weeks before acknowledging that the cloud had passed over the country. By Jules Hebert Hungary’s Paks 2 nuclear plant project: Russia’s controversial test laboratory Commentary The Chernobyl disaster is the origin and the starting point for many green and anti-nuclear activists of my generation in Hungary. What are the dilemmas and how does the public see nuclear energy in Hungary on the 35th anniversary of Chernobyl and the 10th of the Fukushima disaster? By Benedek Jávor The new nuclear power plant in Belarus and reminders of Chernobyl Analysis For the first 29 years of the country’s independence, nuclear power was not used in Belarus. It was not until 7 November 2020, the anniversary of the October Revolution, that the first nuclear power plant was inaugurated in Ostrovets, close to the border with Lithuania. By Hanna Valynets Fukushima: The Nuclear Crisis Is Ongoing, Yet It’s Not Hopeless Commentary In former evacuation zones of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, although the government of Japan pronounced it safe to resume normal life, some returnees found such a life elusive. To make life possible on their once-abandoned land, they decided to tackle radiation in their own ways. By Dr. Tam Man-kei The role of nuclear energy in the EU’s Sustainable Taxonomy Regulation Analysis The EU’s Sustainable Taxonomy Regulation - the list of green activities contributing to the green transition - is currently being discussed. The political debate is now focusing on two types of energy that were at first excluded: nuclear energy and fossil gas. How might these discussions undermine the taxonomy that is potentially a central tool to enhance investments in the green transition and why should they be banished from this instrument? By Zélie Victor Nuclear Power Trend in Southeast Asia and Its Contested Discourses on Climate Change Analysis Currently, there is no nuclear power station that operating commercial electricity in Southeast Asian countries. However, pro-nuclear comes up with many reasons aiming to materialize the nuclear power which ranging from growing of domestic power demand to boost economic activities, reducing the electricity cost – in the case of the Philippines, to producing no Green House Gases emission, in particularly CO2. By Tipakson Manpati Chernobyl Commentary I visited Chernobyl for the first time two and a half years after nuclear disaster. Over the decades, during which time I returned to the Exclusion Zone at least every ten years, I have come to understand that a nuclear disaster has no ‘afterwards’. The consequences of the biggest nuclear incident to date are still affecting many people of the former Soviet Union, having destroyed their future. By Rebecca Harms Chernobyl 35 years on –the “Polish puzzle” Commentary It was 28th April 1986, early morning in Poland. The radiation monitoring station in Mikołajki, Mazury area (north-eastern region of Poland) showed that the radioactivity in the air was 550,000 times higher than the day before. The radioactive cloud from Chernobyl had travelled to Poland. The story of the catastrophe began here. By Beata Cymerman Walking in London: people, space and governance European Mobility Atlas 2021 Walking is vital for liveable cities and a basic right for any city dweller. However, it has long been under-represented in practice and research, something London is planning to overcome. England’s capital intends to build on its prior success in improving walkability, through the elements of shaping individual behaviour, space inequalities and governance. By Alexandra Gomes What to expect from carbon pricing – and what not Commentary Putting a price on CO2 emissions is necessary for climate protection, and applying the polluter-pays principle is an important step toward climate justice. As long as follow-up costs are not taken into account, climate protection will not have sufficient weight in investment decisions. By Stefanie Groll Women on the Move: Sustainable Mobility and Gender European Mobility Atlas 2021 Mobility is not gender neutral. This not only pertains to individual mobility, but also to the transport and planning sectors themselves, which are heavily dominated by men. Social stereotypes and role distribution within a predominantly male workforce, as well as care work mostly carried out by females, do the rest to create an environment that is aligned with male needs. By Katja Diehl and Philipp Cerny The Myth of Good Plastic Essay Plastic is a material that used to be a symbol of progress and modernity. Now it represents an industry that subordinates everything to profit, even if the world is ruined in the process. By Barbara Unmüßig Green hydrogen from Morocco – no magic bullet for Europe’s climate neutrality Analysis There are great hopes pinned to the Moroccan energy transition – not just in the North African kingdom itself, but also in Europe and Germany. By Bauke Baumann European Mobility Atlas 2021 - Preface European Mobility Atlas 2021 Europe is the continent where multiple forms of transportation have been invented or brought to technological maturity. The free movement of persons has made Europe grow together and led to an ever-stronger sense of cohesion. Cross-border mobility is a prerequisite for a united EU and the experience of inter-connectedness on all levels. By Dr. Ellen Ueberschär and Eva van de Rakt 12 Brief Lessons on Mobility in Europe European Mobility Atlas 2021 The European Mobility Atlas 2021 analyses the key facts and figures about transport and mobility in Europe, contributing to the efforts towards sustainable and just mobility in the European Union. The main takeaways from the Atlas are summarised in these 12 brief lessons. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union History: A Struggle for Directions European Mobility Atlas 2021 It took until the late 1980s to make transport part of EU policy. Since then, steps have been taken towards a more ambitious transport policy. Reluctance in EU Member States to enforce the rules keeps being the biggest obstacle. By Paul Beeckmans Employment: Fear of Falling by the Wayside European Mobility Atlas 2021 Liberalisation and social harmonisation have barely gone hand in hand in the transport sector. Some EU rules exist, but without proper enforcement, the current employment situation is often unsatisfactory. By Natalia Walczak Aviation: Flying Green - A Nice Dream European Mobility Atlas 2021 Suddenly, the skies were blue. The Covid-19 lockdown grounded the majority of flights, and analysts say that it could take years for aviation to get back to normal. By Magdalena Heuwieser The Automotive Sector: The Key Transformation of an Industry European Mobility Atlas 2021 For more than 100 years, the automotive industry has relied on cars with internal combustion engines. Today, transformation is irrevocable. The Covid-19 pandemic makes it a truly Herculean task. By Roderick Kefferpütz Rail: The Challenges of a Single European Railway Area European Mobility Atlas 2021 European transport infrastructure reflects the complexity of Europe’s cross-border management tasks and its historic path dependency. Railway infrastructure is a prominent example of this. By Philipp Cerny Cross-Border Mobility: Closing the Gaps European Mobility Atlas 2021 A well-connected cross-border railway system is the backbone of European transnational mobility. Yet many cross-border points still look like a patchwork reflecting myriad different national systems. By Constantin Lehnert Shipping: Setting Sail - Challenges for Sea Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Maritime transport is the most important, most efficient, but also dirtiest way of shipping goods. Not covered by the Paris Agreement, the industry is trying to set guidelines for a more environment-friendly maritime transport. By Nikolaos Sifakis and Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos Tourism: Travelling Sustainably or With the Crowd European Mobility Atlas 2021 Tourism is a major economic sector in Europe. But its negative impacts on the environment and local communities raise concerns. Sustainable travel is growing, yet Covid-19 could change everything. By Ed Lancaster Bicycle Industry: Growing at Speed European Mobility Atlas 2021 Unlike many industries, the manufacture of bicycles keeps on growing. This is mainly driven by the sale of e-bikes. The ever-increasing demand for them seems to be helping the industry to recover rapidly from the impact of Covid-19. By Anna-Lena Scherer Cargo Bikes: Sustainable and Resilient Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Cargo bikes play a big role in avoiding motorised transport of goods. Many European cities operate successful cargo bike subsidy schemes. Commercial use, private ownership, sharing— all forms of cargo bike use are on the rise. By Prof. Dr. Sophia Becker and Arne Behrensen Cycling Copenhagen: The Making of a Bike-Friendly City European Mobility Atlas 2021 Providing people with the options to safely walk, bike or use public transportation is paramount not only in creating a green and sustainable city, but also a liveable, people-friendly city. By Marianne Weinreich Road Safety: Wanted - Strategies to Protect the Weakest European Mobility Atlas 2021 Cyclists and pedestrians run a high risk of being killed in road traffic. At national and EU levels, a variety of initiatives aims to protect them better. However, more is needed to ensure effective pedestrian and cyclist safety. By Ellen Townsend and Dudley Curtis Public and Intermodal Transport: Unite Rural and Urban Areas European Mobility Atlas 2021 The ‘last mile’ is often a key problem in public transport. Smartly planned intermodal intersections and digitalisation offer a range of possibilities to close that gap in the transportation chain—even with solutions for an individual mobility. By Alexandra Medwedeff The Costs of Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Inefficiencies in the transport system are caused by false prices. A high amount of costs is passed from the polluter to the general public. This ‘externalisation’ prevents fair competition in transport and must be changed. By Dr. Thilo Becker Drive Technology: Charging Ahead European Mobility Atlas 2021 The path going forward is clear: for road vehicles, electricity and alternative fuels will soon replace petrol and diesel. The climate protection potential of this move is high, but some problems still need to be solved along the way. By Stefanie Groll and Dr. Christine Wörlen Dieselgate: The Scandal has Not Been Solved European Mobility Atlas 2021 Detected five years ago, ‘Dieselgate’ remains partly unsolved, although national governments and the European Commission have offered a wide range of responses. Consumers criticise the scandal-handling by car manufacturers. By Jens Müller The Impact of Covid-19: Shaken and Shifted European Mobility Atlas 2021 Europe and the world have been hit by transnational crises before the Covid-19 pandemic. And mostly all of them had a severe impact on mobility and transport. By Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim End-Of-Life Vehicles: Final Destination European Mobility Atlas 2021 Increasing mobility and trade as well as the shortening of a vehicle's average life have led to a growing number of vehicles that have reached the end of their useful life in Europe. By Lisa Tostado The Future of Mobility: On the Road to Integrated Services European Mobility Atlas 2021 Digitalisation has already changed urban micro-mobility. The next step is the development of a single app for all mobility services. By Grégory Merly European Mobility Atlas 2021 - Text and graphics license terms European Mobility Atlas 2021 All text and graphics of the European Mobility Atlas 2021 are published under a Creative Commons License. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union The EU's Common Agricultural Policy after 2020: high ambition, low reform! Commentary The European Commission believed that the CAP reform was potentially compatible with the EU Green Deal. As things turn out, in practice, it is not. By Matteo Metta CAP Beyond the EU: The Case of Honduran Banana Supply Chains Article The EU Common Market Organisation (CMO) and its import/export licences are intertwined with trade power concentration in multinational exporters, EU supermarket price pressure on banana producers, and the impact on labour rights in Central America. Deeper impact assessments should be made in Central America countries before signing Association Agreements with the EU. By Melina A. Campos Will the CAP Post 2020 be Fairer – and What Does That Mean? Article The post 2020 reform promised to deliver a fairer CAP: better targeting and distribution of resources. One month before the final plenary vote in the European Parliament and trilogue negotiations with the Council, the proposal does not seem to go towards its expected direction. By Matteo Metta After Ursula von der Leyen’s ambitious first State of the Union address: It’s time for EU action! Commentary European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s first State of the Union speech showed an ambitious and a strategic approach to the many crises hitting Europe and the world. However, words are not enough. They must be backed up by actions and coherent policy measures. By Eva van de Rakt , Lisa Tostado , Martin Keim , Zora Siebert , Anna Schwarz and Joan Lanfranco “All is not yet lost!” – A contemporary look at Amazonia Commentary The rain forest is going up in smoke – this is the impression given by the images that have been circling the globe for years. But the digital age means that they now travel faster than ever. There are fires in the Arctic, forests burning in Canada, Siberia, South East Asia and now in Amazonia. It is a cause for concern and incomprehension, as most people are now aware of the importance of the largest tropical forest on earth in climate change and protecting biodiversity. By Barbara Unmüßig How do we define Amazonia? Commentary Amazonia means many things to different people. Below is an overview of what Amazonia is, who lives here and why such large areas of it are being slashed and burned. By Thomas Fatheuer Key Green Ideas for the Future of Europe Policy recommendations In the context of the Covid-19 crisis, the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union faces major challenges. Considering that the conditions and circumstances will constantly change, and that the EU will face increasing uncertainty and unpredictability, we need to reflect on how it should respond to vital challenges in the long term. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union Southeast Asia: Going Greener, Post-COVID-19? Article Green recovery. Social protection. Smart containment. Decarbonisation. Putting progress in climate action at par with measuring GDP. Creative capacity. These phrases have been running through conversations these days around changing Southeast Asia's template for development in the post-COVID era. By Johanna Son The Impact of COVID-19 on Small-Scale Farmers in Nigeria Interview Mary Afan, president of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON), talked to hbs about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale farmers, government’s response and what could be done to help them weather the crisis. CAP & the Global South: National Strategic Plans – a Step Backwards? Article Slowly the CAP has become less focused on only promoting exports and more on sustainable development. But that progress might be undone once member states start formulating their own agricultural policy objectives. By Hans Wetzels CAP Strategic Plans on Climate, Environment – Ever Decreasing Circles Article The latest effort at CAP reform from the Commission was supposed to focus on a new delivery model, more environmental ambition, and a performance and monitoring evaluation framework. As the Croatian presidency ends, little progress has been made. By Matteo Metta Climate and environmentally ambitious CAP Strategic Plans: Based on what exactly? Article The concept of climate and environmental ambition of the future CAP Strategic Plans is multidimensional, yet clear criteria for guiding a transparent appraisal and approval process are still missing. By Matteo Metta Flawed but vital, “Planet of the Humans” poses several inconvenient questions Review Michael Moore and Jeff Gibbs new movie, Planet of the Humans (POTH) serves to uncomfortably remind viewers that in many ways, despite our increased awareness of the growing biodiversity and climate crises, often our “environmental” and “sustainable” solutions, such as “natural” fossil gas, biomass and biofuels, have proven as bad or worse than the coal and petroleum they were intended to replace. By L. Michael Buchsbaum Red Alarm: Europe’s Next Drought is Already Upon Us Analysis In much of Europe, this April is proving one of the driest in history. According to climate scientists, this could be the new normal as global warming enhances the frequency of severe droughts. Farmers though could do more to secure stable harvests: by growing more diverse crops. By Paul Hockenos How Transparent and Inclusive is the Design Process of the National CAP Strategic Plans? Article After the first steps made towards designing the National CAP Strategic Plans, this article analyses transparency and stakeholder inclusivity in six selected Member States: France, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Poland. By Matteo Metta A turning point for Ukraine: full-scale energy transition or re-established gas dependency? Background For the Ukrainian energy sector, the beginning of the year was marked by the “Ukrainian Green Deal” proposal developed by the Ministry of energy and environmental protection. But when it comes to near-term plans, further investments of public funds in nuclear and gas projects are still being considered by the government. By Oleh Rybachuk and Kostiantyn Krynytskyi Not So Green, Not So Clean: Are Green Technologies Silencing Local Communities? Background Norway is considered one of the ‘greenest’ countries on the planet but recently the country has come under fire for approving a copper mine in the Arctic described as the “most environmentally damaging project in the country's history”. This article aims to explore how green technology is still being recapitulated by capitalism and ‘business as usual' and uses a gender lens to explore the relationship of nature, green technologies and capitalism. By Mavra Bari Manipulating Mother Nature: The gendered antagonism of geoengineering Background Mother Nature is once again the subject of the male gaze but this time the impact may be even more oppressive. This article expands the feminist concept of ‘male gaze’ towards nature and critiques geoengineering as being an inherently male/masculine technology that is a product of and a means to further capitalistic agenda. By Mavra Bari [COP25] A Process on the Brink of Collapse Confronts a World on the Move Analysis The governments gathered in Madrid failed to embrace the urgent need for progress towards climate justice and higher ambitions. A broad analysis of the global climate negotiations addressing various angles: from fossil fuels, ecosystems and biodiversity, climate finance and justice, gender and indigenous people's rights, to emissions trading and Latin America. By Sébastien Duyck and Erika Lennon [COP25] Why the failure of the climate negotiations in Madrid could be a good thing Commentary The climate conference in Madrid had to be extended longer than any climate conference to date. Negotiations lasted until Sunday morning. And yet only a weak final document was agreed which postponed almost all essential questions until next year. A failure, even a catastrophe for the efforts to save the planet? Was this failure nonetheless even a good thing in the end? Focus on emissions trading. By Jörg Haas Social unrest in Chile and its effects on the climate agenda and COP25 Analysis Hosting COP 25 in Chile would have been an excellent chance to visualize the continent’s environmental problems and improve the space for negotiations. Now, Latin American civil society is making an effort to make their voices heard in Madrid. By Ingrid Wehr , Sebastián Aynzúa and Javiera Valencia Amid Climate Crisis, Will Governments Deliver Ambitious Climate Action in Madrid? Background Against the backdrop of increasing climate destruction and mass mobilizations calling for climate leadership, COP-25 must deliver urgent, rights-based climate action. By Erika Lennon and Sébastien Duyck High Expectations from ‘Nature Based Solutions’ during the Climate Action Summit Background Peter Riggs, from the international network Climate, Land, Ambition, and Rights Alliance (CLARA) tells how to evaluate new commitments from countries, and greater overall ambition in achieving under-two-degree warming pathways. By Peter Riggs Land Degradation Neutrality Fund Article The fund is supposed to contribute to sustainable land use but is run by a financial asset company and poses substantial risks for peasant farmers. By Jutta Kill The IPCC Special Report on Land: We have to act now Analysis On August 8th 2019, the International Panel on Climate Change released its special report on climate change and land. Environmental expert Peg Putt provides an analysis of the report's findings. By Peg Putt Agriculture Atlas: Graphics and license terms Atlas All graphs of the Agriculture Atlas are published under a Creative Commons License CC BY 4.0. and can be used and published under these conditions. You can find all downloads available in formats jpg, png and pdf. Agriculture Atlas 2019 - Facts and Figures on EU Farming Policy Press release Europe needs a new political majority for a fundamental reform of the EU’s damaging and inequitable farming subsidies to stand a chance of saving nature, preventing the worst effects of climate change and reviving small farms and our rural regions. Climate change and human rights – Can the courts fix it? Overview Climate litigation is on the rise - in Germany, in Europe and worldwide. What role can courts play in the fight against climate change? This article shows the link between human rights and climate change, its implications, and introduces some of the cases. By Anne Kling Frequently Asked Questions on 1.5°C and Geoengineering What's the difference between 1.5°C and 2°C? What are "negative emissions"? What's the problem with geoengineering? Why and how is the Heinrich Böll Foundation working on the topic of geoengineering and the 1.5°C limit? Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the 1,5°C target and the topic of geoengineering. Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik [COP24] Great expectations, low execution: The Katowice climate change conference COP 24 Assessement The Katowice climate package brings minor progress, but COP 24 failed to deliver on the most fundamental issues such as raising ambition of national contributions, implementing human rights, and ensuring support for developing countries. By Don Lehr and Liane Schalatek Unpacking COP24 and its implications for Southeast Asia Article This year’s United Nations climate conference wrapped up this month in Katowice, Poland with just enough progress to make the Paris Agreement operational. Yet too few countries stepped up in response to a year of extremes and a slew of reports, all highlighting the widening gap between what science demands and what is actually being acted upon. By Denise Fontanilla EU’s Role in speeding up energy transition in the Western Balkans and Ukraine Documentation Obviously, the destiny of sustainable transition of Western Balkan and Eastern European economies is above all in control of the respective countries themselves. Still, the EU is in a decisive position to create conditions for a dynamic of change and a successful modernisation. By Robert Sperfeld [COP24] What's at stake for COP 24? Briefing The Katowice UN Climate Change Conference will take place in Katowice from the 3rd till the 14th of December 2018. By Don Lehr IPCC Special Report on 1.5: Limiting Global Warming without Temperature "Overshoot" Analysis The IPCC Special Report on 1.5 opts for a rigorous interpretation of the 1.5 limit on global warming. It has good reasons to do so: "Overshooting" that target risks irreversible impacts and damage for societies and ecosystems, and increases reliance on unproven, high-risk geoengineering technologies. By Linda Schneider On Land Grabbing and Cross-border Investment: Case of Cambodian Migrant Workers in Thailand from a Gender-lens Analysis Land grabbing in Southeast Asia continues to be an issue of concern. The population in the region largely live in rural areas and make their living by depending on natural resources such as land and water. This article is based on a research in Cambodia and discusses key findings by using gender lens to highlight changes occurred on various levels in the community. By Premrudee Daoroung [COP23] The Fiji UN Climate Summit 2017, COP23: what is at stake in Bonn? Analysis The UN climate summit COP 23 will convene from 6 to 17 November 2017 in Bonn, Germany, under the presidency of the government of Fiji. This article provides an overview of key issues at stake and a summary of our expectations for the COP 23. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek and Don Lehr Agricultural traders' second harvest Four Western corporations dominate the global trade of agricultural products. Now a Chinese firm has joined them. By Roman Herre Protests, boycotts and resistance In many countries, people are resisting agrarian and trade policies that boost the power of the multinationals. Individual companies also come in for criticism. By Reinhild Benning Alternatives: Agroecology and community supported agriculture Article Agroecology is a successful concept which promotes farming methods that are attuned to local ecosystems. It is already used for growing rice worldwide. By Jan Urhahn and Christine Pohl Monsanto and Co: From seven to four – growing by shrinking Mergers galore: Bayer wants to buy Monsanto and become the world’s largest producer of seeds and agrochemicals. All top rivaling companies are pairing up. By Heike Moldenhauer and Saskia Hirtz Crop genetics: Juggling genes In the coming years, seed companies plan to use genome editing to produce crops with new characteristics – and market them without having to state that they are "genetically modified". By Jim Thomas Sowing the seeds of an equitable world The reclamation of seed as a common good has begun. Following the concept of open source, new approaches evolve that result in the cultivation of a large number of species and varieties. By Barbara Unmüßig Bringing Europe Closer to its Citizens - a Regional Approach to Achieving a European Renewable Energy Union The idea of regional cooperation can fill the ambition gap between national energy strategies and a standardized EU-wide approach. By Dr. Radostina Primova , Anna Leidreiter and Maren Preuss Trash in the Surf, Poison in the Sea The mounds of garbage on some coasts pose clearly visible problems. Other types of pollution are less visible – but every bit as serious. Ocean Governance: Who Owns the Ocean? For thousands of years people have taken to the sea to fish and trade. Wars have been fought as rival rulers claimed the rights to the sea and its exploitation. Those conflicts have continued to this day. Global Hunger For Natural Resources Unseen treasures with mysterious names beckon from the depths of the ocean: manganese nodules, cobalt crusts, black smokers. Hidden within them are rich concentrations of valuable metals. Coasts: Life in the Danger Zone Flooding, erosion, sinking: our coasts are under ever-increasing pressure. People who live in coastal regions are especially endangered – and there are an ever-increasing number of them. Fish – almost out of stock? Fish is a cornerstone of global food security. This global dependence on fish is actually the greatest threat to our fish populations. Many are overfished, and the number is rising. World Trade and Price Wars Coffee, bananas, smartphones, automobiles: cargo ships transport goods around the world. 90 percent of global trade is seaborne. Who does what – and who pays for it all? Biodiversity: The Danger of Declining Diversity Ocean Atlas 2017 Gourmets visiting Sylt, Germany’s idyllic North Sea vacation destination, can choose between fresh Pacific oysters and native blue mussels. But what seems like fine dining is actually a cautionary tale as the foreign oysters threaten to overrun the native mussels. Destination: Ocean Cruise ships carrying 4,000 travelers, all-inclusive beachfront resorts – increasing global tourism places an ever-greater strain on the ocean and coastal populations. Downloads of the Ocean Atlas All graphs of the Ocean Atlas are published under a Creative Commons License CC BY SA 4.0. and can be continued to be used, processed and published under these conditions. You can find all downloads available in various formats (png, pdf) here. Aquaculture: Are Fish Farms the Future? Aquaculture is booming – in 2014 nearly every second fish consumed by people came from a fish farm. The ecological and social problems caused by this aquatic stockbreeding are immense. Energy From the Ocean: Where Does the Future Lie? Countries are turning their attention to the ocean in order to ensure that future demands for energy and raw materials can be met. Which direction will they take? What are the opportunities and risks? An overview. The World Must Act Together: Towards A New Governance of the Ocean Nearly half the Earth is covered by areas of the ocean that lie beyond national jurisdictions. Considering the importance of the oceans for our food supplies, preventing climate change, and preserving biodiversity, this is irresponsible. Change is needed, urgently. The Experts Behind the Ocean Atlas Many experts contributed their expertise to the Ocean Atlas, particularly scientists working together at the University of Kiel’s Future Ocean Cluster of Excellence to research the development of our oceans. Here's the who is who. Warming Waters and Rising Risks The ocean is far, far away from Springdale, Arkansas. And yet the city is feeling the effects of the rising sea level. Seeking safety, 10,000 inhabitants of the Marshall Islands have made the city their new home. How the Ocean Slows Climate Change Without the ocean, climate change would proceed far more quickly. The massive volumes of water in the seas greatly influence the changes occurring in our atmosphere. The Microplastic Problem Beaches littered with plastic garbage, seabirds strangled by bits of plastic – these images are ubiquitous today. Yet we also see photos of people cleaning beaches and hear about plans for purifying the ocean. Are things actually improving? A Look Into the Past: Exploitation and Protected Areas The plants and animals that currently live in the “wilderness” of the ocean or in marine protected areas are just a fraction of what once thrived in the seas. To understand what we’ve lost and what we might be able to recover, we need to know what used to be. Fertilizer for the Dead Zones Each summer, a 20,000-square-kilometer dead zone forms in the Gulf of Mexico. The cause of the lifeless water lies not in the gulf itself but on dry land, 2,000 kilometers upriver. Enhancing Regional Renewables Cooperation in the EU Key insights and policy recommendations for decisionmakers on local, national and European level from a study tour to the North Sea region. By Kathrin Glastra and Anna Leidreiter The Irreversible Momentum of Clean Energy President Barack Obama discusses the long-term potential of renewable energies and sees the global energy transition as irreversible. Now more than ever, the world needs to embrace the opportunity of clean energy and cooperate on its climate goals. By Barack Obama In Good Company. The German Energy Transition and Its Echo in France The chosen method - retention of two thirds of nuclear energy - is only at first sight incompatible with the idea of the German energy transition. The objective is strikingly similar. By Kathrin Glastra and Andreas Rüdinger [COP22] The Marrakesh Climate Negotiations – a Mirror of a Divided World and Silent Europe Compared to COP21 where the EU had a decisive bridge-building role between developed and developing countries in leading a strong climate coalition, in Marrakesh Europe appeared silent and divided. By Dr. Radostina Primova , Damjan Bogunovic and Oksana Aliieva A Tsunami in Winter: Europe Shakes up Its Energy Policy The European Commission’s winter package aims to reform the EU's energy system. Despite positive developments, EU Member States are still far from finding common ground By Kathrin Glastra and Rebecca Bertram North Sea Study Tour: Regional Renewables Cooperation in Practice Regional cooperation can play a key role in meeting the EU'S climate and energy targets for the year 2020. By organising a North Sea study tour with various regional stakeholders we put theory into practice. By Kathrin Glastra and Anna Leidreiter New units of measure of market-compliant nature within the Green Economy Trade with compensation credits is a prime example of how abstractions influence environmental policy. The astonishing reduction of unique habitats to a few measurable indicators is a prerequisite for trading biodiversity offsets. [COP21] The makers and profiteers of the new economy of nature The call for an economic valuation of nature, and in particular for limits on pollution and the destruction of nature, is linked to the demand for a more flexible implementation of environmental laws and regulations. The idea of “compensation instead of reduction” is intended to guarantee this flexibility. A new nature in the wake of the Green Economy An ecological crisis that is becoming increasingly hard to ignore is confronting policymakers with a dilemma: they are being called upon to protect the conditions for life on Earth without overly hampering industrial production and economic growth. [COP21] What are compensation credits and why are they so controversial? Corporations whose business models require the exploitation and destruction of nature are increasingly marketing products as carbon-neutral and deforestation-free. This is made possible by the concept of “compensation instead of reduction”. How does it work? Old and new markets for compensation credits Trading in compensation credits is used to legalize emissions that exceed binding regulatory limits. It also occurs in areas without legal limits. Market-compliant forest conservation (REDD+) REDD is a mechanism for “Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation” in so-called developing countries that has been discussed in the context of the UN climate talks since 2005. Further information on the New Economy of Nature Here you will find recommendations and links to the most important articles, publications, databases and videos related to our dossier "New Economy of Nature". Nord Stream II: Shaking hands with the devil The gas pipeline Nord Stream II should double the existing natural gas transport capacity from Russia to Germany via the Baltic Sea. Juraj Mesík explains why the Kremlin will be the biggest winner of this project. By Juraj Mesík The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2016 In addition to the usual, global overview of status and trends in reactor building and operating, as well as the traditional comparison between deployment trend in the nuclear power and renewable energy sectors, the 2016 edition of the World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR) provides an assessment of the trends of the economic health of some of the major players in the industry. By Mycle Schneider For a better view click on the picture: This external content requires your consent. Please note our privacy policy. Open external content on original site This external content requires your consent. Please note our privacy policy. Aloft: Graphics and license terms All graphics of the publication Aloft - An Inflight Review are under the Creative Commons license CC-BY-NC-ND. This means: You can copy and redistribute the work in compliance with these conditions. Negotiation matters The EU wanted to exert international pressure to speed up the reduction of carbon emissions in air traffic. However, it failed because its climate policy met with existing conflicts of interest. By Dietmar Bartz Air travel versus … Experts in Germany and the EU are ascertaining the environmental ranking of different transport modes. By Dietmar Bartz Technology of the future In the coming decades, new aircraft engines and production methods could make flying more sustainable. “Hybrid flying” using electrical energy has already begun and 3D printing promises higher efficiency and a cleaner production process. By Dietmar Bartz Editorial for "Aloft - An Inflight Review" Flying is a central component of the globally networked world. At the same time, the environmental impact can no longer be ignored. Air traffic needs to become more environmentally friendly. This is where the cooperation of Airbus Group and the Heinrich Böll Foundation begins, because a climate-friendly flying is a common interest of all. By Ralf Fücks and Tom Enders Going green at Airbus Kerosene made from algae oil to make jet fuel sustainable. By Dietmar Bartz Magic numbers: How to meet emissions targets without cutting emissions Aviation is a good example of how emissions reduction targets can be met without cutting emissions. By Barbara Unmüßig , Lili Fuhr and Thomas Fatheuer The Future of Air Travel The book “Aloft – An Inflight Review” is a joint publication of the Heinrich Böll Foundation and the Airbus Group. In the following interview Ralf Fücks explains how such a co-operation project came about and what steps need to be taken to make air travel more environmentally friendly. Nuclear Energy in Europe: yes please?! On the European Commission's Hidden Agenda Contrary to the objective to quit nuclear energy, a recent paper of the European Commission’s DG Research maps out possible nuclear research priorities. An analysis to put the latest developments into perspective. By Kathrin Glastra Nord Stream 2 – not a Private Matter An essay from Annalena Baerbock, Oliver Krischer, Dr. Anton Hofreiter, Marieluise Beck, Bärbel Höhn, Dieter Janecek, Omid Nouripour, Manuel Sarrazin und Dr. Julia Verlinden By Annalena Baerbock , Oliver Krischer , Dr. Anton Hofreiter , Marieluise Beck , Bärbel Höhn , Dieter Janecek , Manuel Sarrazin , Dr. Julia Verlinden and Omid Nouripour Why Are Gender Considerations Key for Climate Finance Actions? On Thursday March 17th at the U.N.’s 60th Commission on the Status of Women, hbs North America led a parallel event entitled “Why Are Gender Considerations Key for Climate Finance Actions?” Here is a quick peek into the outcomes of the discussion. By Liane Schalatek and Beverly Harp New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski Kick-off Workshop on "Driving up Regional Cooperation for Renewables in the European Union" The stakeholder workshop will gather regional experts from across Europe to discuss practical, legal and political challenges and chancesfor regional renewable energy cooperation. By Kathrin Glastra The Role of Cities and Regions as Drivers of Global Climate Leadership in the post-Paris Climate and Energy Governance. Best Practices in Europe, China and the US In cooperation with the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU and Stiftung Asienhaus, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung EU Office has the pleasure to invite you to a conference on regional and local best practices in tackling climate mitigation and adaptation challenges. By Dr. Radostina Primova Civil Society’s Role in Climate Politics Finding an answer to the question of how to deal with global climate change is no easy feat and the issue has been setting challenges for international politics for decades. In Germany a scientific advisory body was established with the aim to support the German government in the field of climate politics, the so-called WBGU. By Barbara Unmüßig Introduction: Regions for Green Economy The European Commission, the European Council and the European Parliament have all repeatedly called for regional cooperation in the context of the 2030 framework on climate and energy and the Energy Union. By Klaus Linsenmeier , Dr. Radostina Primova and Kathrin Glastra The Paris Agreement: What does it mean for the EU’s Domestic Energy Policy and External Climate Strategies? Paris has been declared by many as a historic moment and breakthrough in international climate negotiations. By putting an end to the Kyoto governance and signalling the decline of the fossil fuel area, this new agreement is a huge step forward in the history of international climate diplomacy. By Dr. Radostina Primova and Kathrin Glastra What the Paris Agreement means for Climate Policy in the US Commentary In his support of, in and for Paris, President Obama has emerged as the first real “Climate President” of the United States. Nevertheless, whether or not his country and predecessor will remain faithful to this legacy remains uncertain. By Rebecca Bertram [COP21] COP 21 and the Paris Agreement: A Force Awakened Globally, political leaders are lauding the acceptance of the global and legally binding Paris Agreement on Climate Change at COP 21 as a historical moment. It achieves a goal long believed unattainable. However, judged against the enormity of the challenge and the needs and pressure from people on the ground demanding a global deal anchored in climate justice (“system change, not climate change!”), the Paris Agreement can only be called a collective failure and disappointment. Read a critical assessment by hbs colleagues from around the world. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek , Maureen Santos , Hans JH Verolme , Dr. Radostina Primova and Damjan Bogunović Key Messages from Warsaw to Paris and Beyond The Brussels climate dialogue series that was held from the Climate Summit in Warsaw (COP19 ) until the Climate Summit in Paris (COP21) resulted in the following six key messages to build EU climate ambition in the international climate negotiations By Silvia Brugger , Dr. Radostina Primova and Rosalind Cook "We will always have Taiga, we will always have coal" Commentary For his documentary a finnish filmmaker followed the coaltravel from Kuzbass to Helsinki. His plan: talking to people in the train about climate change. But they didn't want to talk with him. By Anastasia Laukkanen Poland’s approach to the Paris COP Poland is a major coal producer. Miners there are well organised and have strong political leverage. There is a big question mark over how the new government want to approach EU climate policy. An analysis. By Tobiasz Adamczewski Protests: A broad alliance with staying power Around the world, people are fighting back against the coal industry. Theyface repression, harassment and violence – but sometimes they are successful. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Benjamin von Brackel Emissions trading: Strong players, feeble instruments Trading in pollution permits has blossomed into a big business. The system has produced little benefit for the climate. Even so, the alternatives are barely discussed. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke India: Rich in coal but poor in energy Coal is an important part of India’s energy mix. Local production is not enough: strong demand is attracting imports from Australia and elsewhere. However, India has huge potential for renewable energy. By Axel Harneit-Sievers The energy transition: Turning from burning - powering up renewables The share of renewable energy in the global power mix is growing fast. Nations and corporations are switching over. However, a complete shift away from fossil energy is still not in sight. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Arne Jungjohann Lobbying: Paid to prevent progress Wherever climate and energy negotiations take place, the coal industry wants to have their say. They often succeed. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Cindy Baxter Subsidies: Hidden payments, unpaid bills The coal industry uses taxpayers’ money to keep its prices low – and it does not compensate for the costs of climate change or disease. A brief look at the scale of the problem. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Lili Fuhr , Arne Jungjohann and Stefanie Groll EU energy policy: On track, but aiming too low The European Union’s climate policy aims for lower emissions, lower consumption and an increase in renewable energy. The targets are achievable – but they ought to be more ambitious. By Arne Jungjohann Finance: Big players behind the scenes Digging mines, building power plants and providing infrastructure cost billions. Many countries cannot afford the investments; credit agencies and multilateral and private banks are glad to step in. By Arne Jungjohann Profitability: Deflating the carbon bubble Successful climate policies mean that coal is becoming a less valuable resource. This affects the companies that dig it up. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Cindy Baxter China: Black fuel, in the red Change is under way for the world’s biggest coal consumer; consumption in 2014 was down. Renewables are up. Coal-fired power plants are working at less than full capacity. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Arne Jungjohann Labour: Dirty jobs in a dirty industry Although coal production is still on the rise, the sector is employing fewer people. Structural change has spread to all continents. Nevertheless, mining underground remains one of the most dangerous occupations worldwide. By Benjamin von Brackel Health: Fine dust, fat price Smoke and fumes from coal-fired power plants make us ill. They are responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide each year. Atmospheric and environmental pollution from coal costs billions in health expenses. By Heike Holdinghausen Coal Atlas 2015: Introduction Coal was, and still is, the fuel of industrialization and global economic growth. Though its negative consequences for humans and nature outweigh its economic benefits. We hope that our Coal Atlas will spur the international campaign to phase out the use of coal. By Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks Human rights: Pushed down and driven out When the coal firms arrive, local people can expect forced removal and repression. Voluntary standards are of little help. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Heidi Feldt and Marcus Franken Russia: The land without doubt or debate Coal is one of the dirtiest industries in Russia. Apart from hydropower, renewable energy is practically non-existent. Civil society groups that might push for more sustainable sources of power are few and far between. By Vladimir Slivyak Germany: A turnaround yet to turn Germany is phasing out nuclear power and has come to rely more on coal for its electricity. Despite a steep rise in renewable energy, the use of coal is endangering Germany’s ambitious target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. By Eva Mahnke Geology and geography: Subterranean forests Coal is formed from vegetation at high temperatures and pressures, cut off from the air. The older the coal, the more carbon and energy it contains. Deposits are located in all continents. By Heike Holdinghausen Nature: A contaminated future Open-cast mining destroys the landscape of both the pit and the surrounding area. Efforts to restore these areas often fail and the surface above the underground mines sinks. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke Greenhouse gases: Spoiling the climate Digging up coal and using it to generate electricity churns out emissions that intensify the greenhouse effect. Coal is one of the biggest sources of climate change. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke United States: Past its prime The US coal industry is losing market share to gas and renewables. The nation’s dirtiest fuel is giving way to cleaner alternatives. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Tim McDonnell Carbon capture and storage: Problems at depth With the promise of “clean coal”, the industry intends to store carbon dioxide underground. However, this method of dealing with the climate crisis fails for both technical and economic reasons. By Eva Mahnke History: The bedrock of industry Coal is the fuel that powered the Industrial Revolution and the transformation of economies and societies over the last two centuries. Its benefits have been huge – while the damage it has wrought was ignored for too long. By Eva Mahnke History: The bedrock of industry Coal is the fuel that powered the Industrial Revolution and the transformation of economies and societies over the last two centuries. Its benefits have been huge – while the damage it has wrought was ignored for too long. By Eva Mahnke The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski Transparency standards should include climate risks Rigorous disclosure requirements and increased transparency are vital to reclaim the space for citizens to be able to demand climate justice. By Lili Fuhr and Simon Taylor From Warsaw to Paris: Introduction The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union in cooperation with E3G organise the Dialogue Series “From Warsaw to Paris” on EU ambition in the international climate regime in the run-up to the Climate Summit (COP21) in Paris in 2015. By Silvia Brugger Big Polluters, Pay up As the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations suffer huge losses from climate change, the entities most responsible for the problem - the so-called "Big Polluters" - continue to reap billions in profits. This has to change. By Stephen Leonard Europe Must be Strong on Climate Risk at COP21 If the EU is serious about an ambitious agreement at the UN talks in Paris, it must prioritise adaptation and resilience to climate risk in the negotiations, write Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung's Presidents Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks and E3G's Chief Executive Nick Mabey. By Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks Bold policies needed on Regional Renewables Cooperation The report Driving regional cooperation forward in the 2030 renewable energy framework, explores the role of regional cooperation to reach or even exceed the target of at least 27% renewables by 2030. The Czech Nuclear Illusion In the first week of June, the Czech government adopted an action plan that is supposed to lead to the construction of four new reactors in the country. The government’s decision, however, is not the product of a rational political debate; it is the result of the long-term erosion of responsible governing. By Martin Sedlák How the EU can lead on climate change and migration – Time to translate research findings into policies The interrelation between climate change and migration is complex and at times hard to grasp. Environmentally-induced migration intersects with development, adaptation, humanitarian and migration policies, which leads to difficulties in adequately responding to the phenomenon. By Silvia Brugger and Diane Le Naour What Germany can learn from California's start-up culture Entrepreneurial spirit will play an important role in driving energy transitions around the world. Cem Özdemir travelled to San Francisco to witness how innovative solutions are driving low-carbon development in the Bay Area. IN MEMORIAM We mourn the passing of Dorothee Landgrebe. European Perspectives on the German Energy Transition The German energy transition - or Energiewende - cannot be regarded as a solely German phenomenon and is increasingly impacting energy systems far beyond its borders. If the Energiewende is to turn into a true success story it must become more European. Interview on Smart Growth with Ralf Fücks, Co-President of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung North America spoke with our Co-President, Ralf Fücks, about the need for a global, smart green growth strategy, outlined in his new book 'Green Growth, Smart Growth - A New Approach to Economics, Innovation and the Environment'. By Ralf Fücks “Ambitious Alliance Needed On Climate” From EU-CELAC Lawmakers Find our press release to the conclusion of the 2015 Summit of the European Union and the Community of latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). Ma Propre Énergie L’énergie, ça vous parle ? Cette bande-dessinée va vous permettre d’y voir plus clair! We have recently launched with partners the web comic 'Ma propre énergie' in which we depeict in a playful manner the history of energy in France from ancient times to today. Get involved for more local, renewable and controllable energy! Nuclear optimism will cost CZK 32 billion In the spring of 2014, power company ČEZ cancelled its tender for the construction of two new blocks at the Temelín Nuclear Power Station. The decision came immediately after the government adopted a resolution in which it rejected “involvement in any type of state guarantee” for new nuclear projects. By Karel Polanecký Save our Soils! Healthy soils are crucial to human nutrition and the fight against hunger. But worldwide 24 billion tons of fertile soil is lost annually. Barbara Unmüßig calls attention to the growing threat to one of Earth’s most important resources. By Barbara Unmüßig Climate Action from Lima to Paris – Allying Europe and Latin America for a fair and ambitious global climate deal The European Union has to revive its alleged climate leadership, build up trust and confidence, and form coalitions in order to make the 2015 Climate Summit (COP21) in Paris a success. Together, the EU and Latin American and Caribbean countries make up almost one third of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. An alliance between Europe and Latin America could revive and lead the negotiations towards a fair and ambitious global climate deal in Paris. By Silvia Brugger and Gustavo Hernández First in the class, but not best in the Class – The EU’s Proposal for the 2015 Climate Conference in Paris The European Commission recently released its vision for the global climate change agreement, which is due to be adopted in Paris in December. It is worth noting that the EU is the first negotiating party to present its offer for the Paris agreement. Nevertheless, the extent to which the offer paves the way to an ambitious climate deal in Paris is questionable indeed. By Silvia Brugger La production et la surconsommation de viande industrielle saccagent la planète Montreuil, Bruxelles, le 24 février 2015 – En plein salon de l’Agriculture, les Amis de la Terre Europe et la Fondation Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung publient la version française de « L’Atlas de la viande ». Son constat est sans appel : la production industrielle de viande et de produits laitiers a des effets de plus en plus destructeurs sur les sociétés humaines et l’environnement. Trade in Raw Materials Between the EU and Latin America In March 2014, parliamentarians from the Euro-Latin America Parliamentary Assembly (EuroLat) voted in favour of a resolution on “Trade in raw materials between the European Union and Latin America”. The resolution stresses that a transition towards a different model is needed and suggests several practical steps to improve the current situation. By Johanna Sydow Radical Goals for Sustainable Development Barbara Unmüßig, Co-President of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, contributed to Project Syndicate by demanding radical goals for sustainable development to succeed the United Nations' Millenium Development Goals. By Barbara Unmüßig The Lima Languishing The COP 20’s “Lima call for climate action” is no wake-up call but a worrisome sign of a feeble multilateral climate process plagued by political deafness and leaving poor and vulnerable communities alone with the impacts of climate change. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek and Maureen Santos The UN Climate Summit – Between the Rock of Ambition and the Hard Place of Reality The Ban Ki-moon Climate Summit, with the expected participation of more than 120 heads of states and high-ranking government officials from over 160 countries, is not part of the official UN climate negotiations process. Nevertheless, when the UN Secretary General announced the special summit more than a year ago, he did so certainly in hopes that government heads would strive to display decisive actions and announce ambitious emissions reduction goals to grease the path to a new global climate deal post-2020. By Liane Schalatek Cloudy skies over Czech photovoltaics In many countries, solar energy is enjoying great success – photovoltaic modules are increasingly affordable and available to those interested in producing their own electricity. In the Czech Republic, however, those investing in and building solar power stations must constantly resist efforts by the government to destabilise the business environment, writes Martin Sedlák, Director of the Alliance for Energy Independence. By Martin Sedlák Renewables most Cost-Effective Option for 2030 EU Energy Mix The French version of the study ‘Renewables: The Only Path to a Secure, Affordable and Climate-friendly Energy System by 2030’, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union, demonstrates that a renewable strategy would prove to be much cheaper for the EU than a conventional strategy. Description and political analysis of the current state of the Polish Energy Policy The problem in Poland is the coal-based structure of the energy sector. This results in the highest external costs for the production of energy in the EU, contributing to the loss of 1.2 million days’ pay annually as an effect of health problems. By Andrzej Kassenberg The French Energy Transition at crossroads Will the French government really take a major energy, societal and economic change forward and seize the opportunities the Energy Transition offers? Or will it listen to vested interests in nuclear power and fossil fuels? By Celia Gautier Energy policy delivery is getting lost among UK’s parochial political football games Energy policy has certainly become a popular sport in the UK these days. With the country preparing for a general election in a year’s time, the topic is now becoming a big political football. By Mark Johnston The EU 2030 Climate and Energy Framework: What is at Stake for the Global Climate Commentary How will the EU’s 2030 decisions influence the global fight against climate change. By Silvia Brugger A European Union for Renewable Energy The EU needs a common vision for its energy future. A shift towards renewable energy sources will increase security of supply and foster the competitiveness and sustainability of the economy. Round Table Discussion - The Future of EU Energy Policy With its 2050 Roadmaps the European Union is setting out a plan to meet the long-term target of reducing emissions by 80 to 95% by 2050 and is exploring routes towards a decarbonised energy system. All the scenarios of the European Commission indicate a growing share of renewables. A strong growth of renewable energy is described as a 'no regrets' option. A main challenge today is to ensure that strong growth in renewable energy continues after 2020 when the current renewables framework with binding targets expires. How Germany Became Europe’s Green Leader This article examines how German environmental policymaking over the last 40 years transformed Europe’s economic engine into the international driver of green growth. Is the Raw Material Initiative in line with the EU Policy Coherence for Development? All around the world, mining has led to resettlements of the local population, drinking water contamination by cyanide spillages, large reduction of farmland, inadequate compensation paid by mining companies, and waste dumps near resettled villages result in health problems and the loss of traditional jobs such as agriculture and pastoral activities at the place of extraction. Analysis of the EU Raw Materials Initiative On 2 February 2011, the European Commission presented an update to its Raw Materials Strategy from 2008. What are the practical implications of this European strategy, especially for resource rich developing countries around the world? Resource Curse in Latin America Natural resources form a huge part of the wealth of developing countries. However, that is only a potential wealth for the people. The World Nuclear Status Report 2013 Two years after Fukushima, global nuclear power generation continues to decline. If it were not for the World Nuclear Industry Status Report we probably would not know. By Mycle Schneider Buen Vivir and Green New Deal: Equivalent Concepts for the EU and Latin America? Buen Vivir is a Latin American concept which can be understood in three differing ways, but mainly as a critique to the Western way of development. The equivalent school of thoughts in Europe is based on the, the Green New Deal, which proposes a strategy to confront the challenges of global warming, finite resources and etc. Despite this connection, the Green New Deal it is not a goal in itself, it is just a tool, differing from a political philosophy like Buen Vivir. A Summary of the Differences, Similarities and Possible Articulations between ‘Buen Vivir’ and ‘Green New Deal’ Buen Vivir is a criticism of what could be described as an ideology or cultural aspect of development. This paper will briefly touch upon the three different interpretations of the complex Latin American concept of Buen Vivir and then compare it to the European New Green Deal. Raw Material Initiative 2011- Sustainable and Resource Efficient? The Raw Materials Initiative may represent a first step for Europe to less resource dependency, but the question arises as to whether it also appropriately addresses climate challenges and provides a basis for a resource efficient and responsible environmental policy. Impacts of EU Agrofuel Policy on Latin America There is a broad consensus that apart of investing our energy in a certain fuel quality a fundamental change in transport politics is necessary in order to save more fuel and consequently Green House Gas emissions. In this regard the EU can also be a role model encouraging efficient transport policies. GERMANY/FARM STRUCTURES - Whosoever Hath, to Him Shall Be Given Article One by one, Germany’s farms are dying off. One in every two farms was run as a sideline: the majority of the household’s income came from activities other than agriculture. For many, that is a worrying trend. But to fight it, society must agree on what the future of agriculture should look like. By Astrid Häger and Julia Christiane Schmid EU /WORLD TRADE - A Global Price Tag for Europe's Agrifood sector Article Europe’s agriculture is part of many international value chains. It influences global commodity markets and thus the prices, products, income and diets in developing countries. Disagreement exists as to whether the area payments have a negative effect on developing countries. By Tobias Reichert and Berit Thomsen FRANCE/AGROECOLOGY - The Key to Sustainability Article French agricultural policy has been guided by an agroecological project since 2014. But these good intentions are not refl ected in the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy. It is high time to put the focus on agroecology. By Xavier Poux EU/ORGANIC FARMING - Working with Nature Article Rising demand for organic products in Europe is a market opportunity for producers and the food industry. But farmers need help to switch from conventional to organic, and to stay organic in face of market pressures inducing them to switch back. The Common Agricultural Policy offers some support – but not enough. By Rebekka Frick , Matthias Stolze and Helga Willer EU/FARMS - Growing Up Article Like all industries, agriculture is subject to economies of scale. But larger farms have a smaller workforce and can be a bigger burden on the environment if they employ industrial methods, compared to the low-input systems that have traditionally dominated rural landscapes. It is time to shift policies towards preserving jobs and communities, being kinder on the environment, and encouraging young people to take up the farming profession. By Stanka Becheva and Véronique Rioufol POLAND/AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES - Misguided Transformation Article The transition from communism to a free market has resulted in both pluses and minuses for Polish farms. Incomes have risen, especially for large farms. But young people are leaving, industrial farms have appeared, small farms are going under, and the income gap among farmers has widened. By Zbigniew Karaczun ITALY/NATURA 2000 - Farming and Environment: a Delicate Balance Article Natura 2000 is the EU’s most important nature-conservation initiative. In Italy, this programme protects 2,944 sites, covering over 214,000 farms and 1.5 million hectares of agricultural land. The protected area is mainly made up of woodland, rough grazing and arable land. By Franco Ferroni EU/RURAL DEVELOPMENT - For Some, the Secondary Pillar Has the Second Priority Article The Common Agricultural Policy has two “pillars”, or pots of money to draw from. Pillar I, which consists largely of direct payments to farmers according to the area they manage, has come in for a lot of criticism. Pillar II, which supports rural development policy, is seen as more useful. But as the agriculture budget shrinks, it is Pillar II that faces the bigger cuts. By Helene Schulze , Oliver Moore and Hans Martin Lorenzen EU/DIRECT PAYMENTS - Tied to the Land Article Three-quarters of the Common Agricultural Policy budget goes into direct payments for farmers – almost regardless of what they do. Most of the money benefits just a few large producers and fails to deliver on the social and environmental challenges rural areas face. By Alan Matthews EU/BIODIVERSITY - Intensification vs Conservation Article People often say that there are fewer birds and insects now than there used to be. That is true, and intensive agriculture is largely to blame. Despite some lip service paid to the necessity of nature conservation, the overwhelming weight of European agricultural policy is to promote yet more intensification. By Harriet Bradley EU/INTRODUCTION - Hitting Targets, Missing Goals Introduction The Common Agricultural Policy is one of the EU’s oldest policies. Despite its extensive funds and regular reforms every seven years, it is poorly attuned to the needs of Europe’s hugely diverse farm sector. Goals to minimize and adapt to climate change, protect the environment and promote rural development are poorly served. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz and Christian Rehmer SPAIN/WATER - Mainly in the Plain Article Farming around the Mediterranean has become more and more dependent on irrigation, without any realistic consideration of the limited water available. Spain is no exception. The disappearance of many traditional irrigation systems has led to the loss of their valuable agroecosystems. By Por Otra PAC
Böll EU Newsletter 10/2024 - After the 'super election year': A whole new world? 2024 was the year of the vote; more than 100 countries, representing nearly half of the global population, held elections this year. 2025 will be the year of political work, with governments implementing the policies and promises made. In this context, one central question is emerging: What is the role of the state and government in an era defined by profound political, economic and environmental challenges? And what capacity do governments have to deal with them? By Roderick Kefferpütz
Twin transition: the reasons for scepticism Commentary Something sounds awry about the term ‘twin transition’. The concept, often used in EU or UN contexts, ties two crucial transitions: the move to renewable energy and the digitalisation of economies. While it sounds forward thinking, evidence suggests this pairing may be less beneficial than promised. As developing countries bear the socio-environmental costs while reaping limited benefits, a handful of tech giants continue to dominate global markets. Paz Peña raises a crucial question: is this ‘transition’ truly a path to equity, or does it deepen old divides under the guise of green progress? By Paz Peña
Poland’s EU Council Presidency - What to expect? Analysis Poland takes on the EU Council Presidency in January 2025. What does this role mean, and what challenges lie ahead? Our latest article explores the key context and what to expect during this pivotal six-month period. By Beata Cymerman , Agata Gontarczyk , Anna Jakubowska , Maciej Makulski , Paul Naumann and Julia Borówko
Biochar: buddying up soils Soil Atlas 2024 In recent years, research interest in biochar has gained significant attention in mainstream discourse. The sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilisers offers triple benefits: enhanced soil health, improved livelihoods, and climate protection. By Audrey S-Darko
Flooded with lies: climate infodemic in Valencia Analysis Following the worst natural disaster in Spain’s recent history, the country has witnessed an outpour of politically charged conspiracy theories that cast doubt on the government and democratic institutions. While such lies are often created and circulated by a small network, they can quickly spread beyond traditional circles and gain widespread attention. What can be done to stop the spread of disinformation in the wake of catastrophic weather events? By Florent Marcellesi
Delivering a fair household energy transition: learning and priorities Analysis The green technologies needed to rapidly cut our greenhouse gas emissions are already on the market. What’s more, they are, or very soon will be, cost effective. In other words, from the perspective of the household, it is, overall, cheaper to go green. However, there’s a catch: access to capital is king in the household energy transition. By Alex Chapman
3 Questions on the outcome of the COP Negotiations in Baku to Lena Schilling MEP 3 Questions The COP negotiations in Baku brought together global leaders, activists, and stakeholders amidst a tense geopolitical climate. With the influence of authoritarian leaders, ongoing debates over climate finance, and the presence of civil society under challenging conditions, the outcomes of this year’s talks were far from predictable. MEP Lena Schilling reflects on the key dynamics that shaped the negotiations and offers insights into the path forward for international climate action. By Lena Schilling and Louise Mollenhauer (on extended leave)
COP29 exacerbates climate injustice Analysis COP29 was expected to deliver a global goal for climate finance that meets the challenges of the future. It failed to do so. Instead, it launched international carbon markets that create new loopholes for fossil fuel emitters. By Linda Schneider
Böll EU Newsletter 9/2024 - Growing challenges, declining majorities Newsletter What a show these last couple of weeks have been. The return of Donald Trump, the rupture of the German federal government, and then the ridicule of the Commissioner-designate hearings in the European Parliament. Challenges are rising, but stable majorities in Europe are eroding. It is increasingly difficult to build consensus and have a stable centre of political gravity. By Roderick Kefferpütz
What to expect in the first 100 days of the von der Leyen II European Commission? Infographic On 18 July 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was elected for a second mandate and presented to the European Parliament her Political Guidelines for the next European Commission. A new European Commission will kick-off its work on 1 December 2024, after its approval by the European Parliament. We take a look at von der Leyen's promises for the first 100 days (and beyond) of the new European Commission. By Joan Lanfranco
Carbon farming won’t save the planet Commentary Funding climate protection through carbon certificates for soil may seem beneficial at first. However, a greater focus on soil health and supporting farmers in adopting sustainable practices would be far more effective in practice. By Sophie Scherger
What is the status of energy poverty in the European Union? Explainer 35 to 72 million people across the EU are facing energy poverty. These issues already have powerful implications today from a public health or productivity point of view. Over the years, the EU has constructed a series of policy instruments to assess better and comprehensively address the phenomenon. By Marine Cornelis
Enforcing energy rights to promote energy justice Commentary A just energy transition must, in essence, address the three foundations of energy justice (distributive, recognitional, and procedural) as well as the systematic problems that are present in energy access issues, in consumer rights enforcement, or the fact that some people cannot reap the full benefits of services available to them. By Marine Cornelis
Soil Atlas 2024: Healthy soils hand in hand with food security, climate and nature conservation Press release Healthy soils are a basic requirement for producing nutritious food, preserving biodiversity and adapting to climate change. But the condition of the soils is poor, with more than a third of the world's agricultural land being considered degraded. In the European Union, more than 60 percent of soils are now damaged - caused, among other factors, by industrial agriculture and the effects of the climate crisis such as droughts. This is outlined in the Soil Atlas 2024, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and TMG – Think Tank for Sustainability. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and TMG – Think Tank for Sustainability
12 brief lessons about soils Soil Atlas 2024 Soils are vital to our survival. They store greenhouse gases and water and are home to at least a quarter of all living creatures on earth. However, over 60 percent of soils in the EU are damaged and their sealing threatens biodiversity.
Soil Atlas 2024: Foreword Soil Atlas 2024 Soil is the foundation of life on Earth. Its beauty and complexity as a living ecosystem are vast, and its functions are integral to our lives. For example, 95 percent of global food production depends on healthy soils, making access to fertile soil essential in the fight against hunger. Soils are also a crucial ally in adapting to climate change, as they help buffer the effects of droughts and floods. By Dr. Imme Scholz and Dr. Jes Weigelt
Ecosystem soil: the foundation of life Soil Atlas 2024 Soil – sometimes referred to as the planet's skin – takes hundreds or thousands of years to form, making it a non-renewable resource on a human timescale. It provides the basis for human life, and its health affects the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. By Ronald Vargas
Soil degradation: the silent global crisis Soil Atlas 2024 Soil degradation is a major but largely neglected global problem that threatens agricultural productivity, food security, and ecosystem health. Around one-third of soils worldwide are degraded, with over 40 percent located in Africa. By Harun Warui
Desertification: Europe is drying out Soil Atlas 2024 While desertification is a problem most commonly associated with Africa or Asia, it is not limited to these regions. Intensive agriculture and the climate crisis have also led to severe soil degradation and desertification in Europe. And not just in southern Europe: even countries with temperate and humid climates, such as Hungary and Bulgaria, are affected. By Victor Castillo and María José Sanz Sánchez
Climate adaptation: soil and water, a crucial symbiosis Soil Atlas 2024 As the climate crisis intensifies around the world, severe storms and flooding are becoming more frequent. Healthy soils can help buffer the effects of extreme weather. For that reason, soil protection is more important than ever. Yet, it is still neglected. By Larissa Stiem-Bhatia and Inka Dewitz
Corporate power: when culprits benefit Soil Atlas 2024 Overuse of artificial fertiliser is bad for soils and, in the case of nitrogen fertilisers, for the climate as well. Moreover, pesticides deplete the soil of beneficial organisms. Yet these products earn big money for big companies, which influence governments, often blocking policy changes needed to protect people and the environment. By Lena Luig
Nitrogen fertiliser: global dependencies Soil Atlas 2024 Synthetic fertilisers harm the climate, but industrial farming relies heavily on them. Additionally, higher fertiliser prices have pushed up prices for food commodities. African countries, where food crises intersect with debt crises, are hit especially hard. By Lena Bassermann and Gideon Tups
Phosphorus: extractivist agriculture Soil Atlas 2024 Phosphorus is bioessential, meaning that all living organisms require it. Yet, despite its presence in soils, it is a relatively rare element on Earth and is not always found in a form that plants can absorb. The fertiliser industry produces easily soluble phosphorus but depends on a finite, non-substitutable resource: phosphate rock. By Axel Anlauf
Green fertilisers: not a quick fix Soil Atlas 2024 The production of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions upstream. But it does not solve the problems associated with excessive use of synthetic fertilisers, such as diminished soil health, biodiversity loss, on-field greenhouse gas emissions, nitrate pollution, and overdependency on external inputs. By Lisa Tostado
Land grabbing: the race for hectares Soil Atlas 2024 Land has been heralded as a crisis-proof investment around the world. However, these deals often make money for the wealthy few, while pushing local people off their land and into poverty. Countries like Germany, Singapore, and the United States are complicit in such land grabs. By Roman Herre
Land sales: just another commodity? Soil Atlas 2024 The phenomenon of large companies and investors buying up vast tracts of arable land in the Global South has long been seen as a problem. In Germany, too, this kind of land grabbing is on the rise, with small and medium-sized farms pushed out. A reorientation that prioritises the common good is needed. By Jan Brunner , Gesine Langlotz and Anne Neuber
Climate policy: conflicts between demand for land and people's rights Soil Atlas 2024 Soil plays a major role in protecting the environment. It serves as carbon reservoirs, the plots into which trees are planted, and a steward for producing climate-neutral fuels. But land-intensive climate action can give rise to conflicts and erode people’s rights. Even so, there is yet to be a resolution for this mounting global challenge in sight. By David Betge , Frederike Klümper and Dr. Jes Weigelt
Soil carbon credits: blessing or curse? Soil Atlas 2024 The world’s soils store more carbon than its forests, and this storage capacity is increasingly discussed as a contributor to climate protection. Tradable carbon credits were designed to incentivise the build-up or retention of carbon in the soil. However, they may in fact undermine efforts to reduce emissions. By Sophie Scherger and Larissa Stiem-Bhatia
Human rights: rights versus reality Soil Atlas 2024 Equitable access to land and fertile soil is fundamental to realising human rights, such as the right to food. Although numerous United Nations declarations on land rights have been ratified by national governments, deadly land conflicts persist throughout the world. By Dr. Jes Weigelt and Frederike Klümper
Women and land: protecting rights, protecting soils Soil Atlas 2024 Secure land access is essential for long-term soil protection because it enables land users to implement practices that enhance soil health and maintain its productivity over time. However, in many African countries, women’s land rights remain precarious, creating significant barriers to investing in sustainable soil management. By Larissa Stiem-Bhatia , Kader Baba , Serah Kiragu-Wissler and William Onura
European Union: Soil protection? Wanted! Soil Atlas 2024 Protection measures for climate, water, and biodiversity have been enshrined in EU law – in some cases, for decades. But a comprehensive legal framework for soil protection is still lacking. Previous attempts to create one have been torpedoed, while most existing policies are toothless. By André Prescher-Spiridon
Agroecology: policies that keep soil alive Soil Atlas 2024 Agroecology is a response to an industrial model of agriculture that exploits people and damages soils. In Brazil, agroecology is making significant breakthroughs in social and environmental terms. But one thing is already clear: government policy is needed to promote agroecology and confront the agroindustrial model. By Júlia Dolce and Lucas Gattai
True costs: hidden effects Soil Atlas 2024 Land degradation has numerous invisible costs – environmental, health, social, and economic. True Cost Accounting renders these costs visible, offering a clearer picture of the impact of land degradation. By Olivia Riemer , Marlene Ohlau , Jenny Lay-Kumar and Mark Schauer
Sustainable soil restoration: reviving India's soils for a better future Soil Atlas 2024 Modern farming techniques were introduced to India during the Green Revolution of the 1960s to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. However, the overuse of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, alongside the cultivation in monocultures, severely damaged soil health. In response, many farmers are moving back to alternative soil management practices. Political support for this transition is growing, but requires more flame to ignite change. By Pratik Ramteke and Ashok Patra
Regreening the desert: land and soil restoration in the Sahara and Sahel Soil Atlas 2024 The Sahara Desert is expanding, thereby threatening millions of people’s lives and livelihoods. While many large-scale initiatives have been launched to combat desertification, most lack secure funding. Bottom-up techniques, implemented by local farmers, show how Indigenous knowledge can drive restoration. By Mawa Karambiri
Soilless agriculture: revolution or illusion? Soil Atlas 2024 Vertical indoor farming enables crops to grow all year round. It requires less space and promises to reduce water, fertiliser, and pesticide use, thus protecting both climate and soil. But this must be part of a larger transformation of food systems. By Lena Luig and Christian Sonntag
3 Questions on the US election results to Sergey Lagodinsky MEP 3 Questions The victory of Donald Trump in the 2024 US elections will undoubtedly have consequences in transatlantic relations, from foreign and security policy to green transition and competitiveness. We asked 3 questions on the consequences of Trump 2.0 for Europe to German Green MEP Sergey Lagodinsky, who is a member of the EP Delegation for relations with the United States. By Joan Lanfranco and Sergey Lagodinsky
The EU and Azerbaijan as energy partners: short-term benefits, uncertain future Analysis Azerbaijan has strengthened its energy ties with the EU since 2022, ramping up gas deliveries and articulating ambitions to export renewable energy and green hydrogen to Europe in the future. However, the EU’s shrinking gas demand and Azerbaijan’s lack of a genuine decarbonization strategy cast uncertainty on the long-term prospects of this partnership. By Yana Zabanova
Europe’s energy transition needs deeper integration. The North Sea is where it could start Commentary Cross-continental energy networks are the backbone of Europe’s energy transition. With the accelerated roll-out of solar panels and wind turbines, policymakers and grid operators now feel the back pain from limited energy infrastructure capacities. How can the EU rehab our existing electricity grids and gas pipelines? Two new publications from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union provide guidance. By Jörg Mühlenhoff
How Saudi Arabia’s Neom Giga project became a global showroom of false climate solutions Analysis Alongside other European powers, the UK is helping to supercharge Saudi Arabia’s attempt to hijack the global sustainability agenda. By Lyse Mauvais
Böll EU Newsletter 8/2024 - US elections special edition Newsletter As we approach the US presidential election, it's clear that its implications will extend far beyond American borders, resonating profoundly within Europe. This election represents a critical juncture for Europe’s political and economic landscape, especially concerning the future of Ukraine and the broader European security order. By Roderick Kefferpütz
Net zero and energy bills: more payback, less push back Commentary To win hearts and minds, and to prevent green backlash, net-zero policies must translate into lower bills and better services for ‘ordinary’ households. An inclusive demand flexibility strategy is vital to this. By Sophie Yule-Bennett and Euan Graham
Reindustrialisation, battery factories and Hungary's workforce gamble Background Hungary's ambitious plan to reindustrialise hinges on bringing in hundreds of thousands of migrant workers. However, this strategy faces a significant hurdle: a society already grappling with deep-seated distrust, both among its citizens and towards the influx of foreign labour. By Péter Vigh
Hidden hazards: Disinformation and waste in Hungary's battery boom Background Explore the untold environmental and health risks of Hungary's rapidly growing battery industry. Our 2024 Climate Disinformation Fellow Péter Vigh uncovers government data that reveals the widespread presence of hazardous waste, raising serious concerns about the sustainability of an industry vital to the green transition. With battery production set to shape Hungary’s future, why are the dangers being kept in the dark? By Péter Vigh
Mining lithium, undermining a democratic future: EU deal takes Serbia further from Europe Analysis The lithium deal brings a new quality to Serbia’s foreign policy zigzagging. At one stroke, Serbia became a strategic partner and the guarantor for the future of the European Green Deal. By Dr. Vedran Dzihic
Energy leadership quest takes Saudi Arabia from big oil to big hydrogen Analysis Saudi Arabia's climate policy is ever more oriented towards green mega projects and high-profile investments in hydrogen, but is it a mere rebranding of existing energy policies? Read the piece by our 2024 Climate Disinformation Fellow Lyse Mauvais. By Lyse Mauvais
The last stretch: reaping the benefits of the sustainable finance framework Analysis The EU has already taken important actions for private finance to support the transition to a greener economy, and it cannot waste this one chance to finish the work. The sustainable finance legislative framework could help boost the European economy going forward – it is the last stretch before reaping the benefits of the efforts made so far. By Vincent Vandeloise
The three building blocks for Europe's mobility transition in the next years Analysis Carbon emissions from transport will still account for 44% of Europe’s total in 2030. The sector's decarbonisation comes with broad challenges, including industrial transformation to scale new technologies, secure local green jobs, and ramp up new supply chains. Transport & Environment's Julia Poliscanova looks at the building blocks of a successful mobility transition for the next European Commission. By Julia Poliscanova
The future of the EU trade and sustainability agenda in turbulent times Analysis The outgoing European Commission has upscaled the use of unilateral trade instruments to achieve security, competitiveness and sustainability objectives. In times of environmental crises and rising geopolitical tensions, the incoming European Commission should implement the ambition to embed European trade within planetary boundaries and revive international cooperation around environmental trade goals. By Simon Happersberger and Eleanor Mateo
Böll EU Newsletter 7/2024 - Competitiveness or Green Deal? I'll have both! Newsletter We are in the midst of a fundamental global political and economic re-ordering. Revisionist states are challenging the geopolitical order and questioning the territorial status quo in Europe and Asia. Economic competition on the world market is fierce, as evidenced by the struggles of traditional European industrial powerhouses such as Volkswagen and ThyssenKrupp. Cracks in the foundations of European prosperity are emerging. The days when Europe could outsource its security to the Americans, benefit from cheap Russian energy, and easily sell its goods to the world are ending. Europe needs to rethink its foundations. This means investing in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and defence. But this cannot be done on the cheap. By Roderick Kefferpütz
3 Questions on the Draghi report on European competitiveness to Sander Tordoir 3 Questions European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tasked Mario Draghi, former President of the European Central Bank and former Italian Prime Minister, to write a comprehensive report on the state of the European economy. In this long-awaited report, the Italian economist provides a substantive analysis on how a changing geopolitical landscape, an energy shock, demographic change, climate change, and international competition put stress on the European economy and the European social model. We asked Sander Tordoir, Chief Economist at the Centre for European Reform, for his first reactions to the report. By Anton Möller and Sander Tordoir
Böll EU Newsletter 6/2024 - Greening the von der Leyen II Commission Newsletter Habemus presidentem: With 401 votes in favour, the European Parliament has reconfirmed Ursula von der Leyen as the president of the European Commission. This vote was not a given. Unable to rely on the support of the super grand coalition of conservatives, social democrats, and liberals alone, von der Leyen went out of her way to secure Green votes in particular. By Roderick Kefferpütz
How Scotland can get its energy for renewables back Commentary Scotland has been a pioneer in renewables, says Kirsten Jenkins. But the easy wins are over and the task of decarbonising Scotland’s economy is becoming steadily more difficult, as the row over net zero targets showed. Nonetheless, the potential to build on its record is clear and the obstacles are not insurmountable. By Kirsten Jenkins
European elections 2024: A wake-up call Analysis After the European elections, the democratic and pro-European forces in the European Parliament (EP) have been weakened. They must make cooperation much more binding in order to ensure reliable majorities for an effective EU. By Jan Philipp Albrecht , Eva van de Rakt , Roderick Kefferpütz and Marc Berthold
Greens in the EU election: down in the West, up in the East, South and North Analysis 2019 was an extraordinary election year for the European Green Party, and it was clear from the beginning of the 2024 campaign that it would be tough to match it again this year. While the Greens lost seats overall, most of the losses were concentrated in Germany and Western Europe, while the bloc was able to pick up new seats in the South and East. By Tobias Gerhard Schminke
European Parliament elections: climate policies will suffer Analysis With the European Parliament tilting towards the right after the EP 2024 elections, there is a significant risk that the EU may shift towards a stance less favourable to assertive climate action. By Paul Hockenos
Böll EU Newsletter 5/2024 - What comes after the election? Newsletter Today, citizens will start heading to the polls to vote for the next European Parliament. The outcome will in part determine the political correlation of forces in Europe over the next five years. If current projections hold true, we will not only witness a rightward shift within the EP but also more fragmentation. Instead of seven political groups, key officials in the parliament administration expect there to be nine. These tendencies will affect political majorities. By Roderick Kefferpütz
3 Questions on fair participation in Europe’s energy transition to Claire Roumet 3 Questions When the EU accelerates its shift to a clean and efficient energy system, how can citizens benefit better from this transition? Local authorities play a key role in facilitating citizens’ access to renewables and energy savings measures. Jörg Mühlenhoff asked three questions to Claire Roumet who is part of the Overall Coordination Team of Energy Cities, the network of several hundred European municipalities gathering frontrunners and energy transition beginners, city officials and technical experts. By Jörg Mühlenhoff and Claire Roumet
Strengthening citizens’ participation in the EU’s energy transition – a toolbox Analysis Europe’s switch to renewable energy supply and efficient energy consumption is gaining momentum, not only as a result of the European Green Deal but also in reaction to the fossil fuel price crisis. EU legislation already creates some opportunities for citizens to access affordable renewable energy more directly, as well as to facilitate energy savings through, for example, building renovation. By Taube Van Melkebeke and Jörg Mühlenhoff
How to stabilise the cost of living by sharing energy and food Analysis It is high time for an out-of-silos approach to boost the added value from solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop installations. This analysis suggests a new solidarity model allowing citizens, local retailers and farmers to tap into the benefits of solar electricity. By Guillaume Joly
Flood of disinformation – Southern Brazil climate emergency aggravated by disinformation Analysis In May 2024, Brazilians stood by in astonishment as they witnessed yet another example of a climate emergency: the damage caused by the rains in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil's southernmost state, bordering Uruguay and Argentina. The tragedy has also fostered another phenomenon of our times that is very devastating: disinformation. By Manoela Vianna
Freedom, security and prosperity don‘t come for free President's column Infrastructure deficiencies are paralysing Germany. But as a result of the Schuldenbremse (debt brake), urgently needed investments – including to boost climate protection – are to be postponed. This is both risky and economically short-sighted. By Jan Philipp Albrecht
The blind spots of a common EU industrial policy Analysis Europe can die. This was the warning issued by Macron in his second Sorbonne speech. However, it is not only Europe that can die, but also its industry. So far, Europe is falling behind in the race for future markets such as green and digital technologies and biotechnology, and is instead becoming strategically dependent. The European Union must use the next legislature to build an industrial policy worth its name, even if this means a historic turn. By Jonathan Barth
Böll EU Newsletter 4/2024 - Show me the money: Europe's financing challenge Newsletter From Russia’s war in Ukraine to the green and digital transformation, we’re not short on challenges nowadays. What we are lacking is the vast sums of money needed to deal with them. The EU requires an estimated 500 billion euros a year for the green transition, while NATO’s European members need to find another 56 billion euros annually to meet the alliance’s 2% defence spending target. By Roderick Kefferpütz
Climate change in Italian politics: polarisation, demonisation and repression Analysis If smart politics and scientific evidence went hand-in-hand, decarbonisation would be understood as a political issue that transcends party lines. Yet in the run-up to the EU elections, a political division over this issue seems to be emerging, both at an EU level and within the member states. By ECCO
Europe before the elections: Questions and consequences for the economy Interview Five years after the European Green Deal was launched, Europe's economic strength and security are at stake. What lies ahead for the German and European economy? A conversation with Sandra Parthie and Roderick Kefferpütz. By Phillip Käding , Sandra Parthie and Roderick Kefferpütz
Trade unions, collective bargaining and the green transition in the next EU legislative period Commentary The climate emergency is the number one policy priority, requiring a fundamental overhaul of our economic system. During the Val Duchesse Social Partner meeting, the European Commission announced the creation of a Social Dialogue envoy. However, the roles of social dialogue and collective bargaining remain underappreciated, and the European Institutions need to focus on strengthening the role of trade unions in shaping the just transition throughout the next legislature. By Béla Galgóczi
How the next European Commission could secure clean and affordable energy for all Analysis At the end of the current legislative term, the disagreement within the bloc of 27 EU Member States on many climate and energy issues can hardly be hidden. However, new momentum is urgently needed to cut EU emissions, keep industries competitive and protect prosperity. With our 100% Renewable Energy Action Plan for the next European Commission, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe, DUH) put forth priority actions for the following legislative term. By Jörg Mühlenhoff
100% renewables: the way forward to fix Europe’s energy and climate issues Analysis When confronted with energy price explosions and the climate crisis, the EU cannot waste time and money on castles in the air. Instead of betting on unproven solutions far from market introduction, such as small modular reactors and the broad deployment of all kinds of carbon removal technologies, the EU should build on what works right now. Renewable energy sources have proven to be by far the most relevant and reliable solution. In our new 100% Renewable Action Plan for the next European Commission, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe) describe what needs to happen after the 2024 European elections to harvest the benefits of renewables. By Jörg Mühlenhoff
Sustaining tomorrow: the imperative for the EU to uphold its 2030 goals for a sustainable food system Analysis The EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy was designed to ‘accelerate the transition to a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system’. It sets a range of targets to be met by 2030, underpinned by a mixture of new or revised laws, and non-legislative initiatives. As the current European Commission nears the end of its mandate, this article proposes how the next European Commission, from 2024–2029, should carry forward the goals of the Farm to Fork Strategy, and actions to meet its targets, especially as the EU is currently stalling many of its aspects in light of recent farmer protests. By Harriet Bradley
From climate action to feminist justice Report This article discusses the potential of a feminist approach to climate justice and feminist foreign and development policy. The authors, Gina Cortés Valderrama and Katy Wiese, argue that feminist perspectives are essential in addressing economic rights, energy transition, and climate-related damages and losses. By Miriam Mona Mukalazi
Böll EU Newsletter 2/2024 - New EP elections dossier! Newsletter In fewer than 100 days, Europe’s citizens will go to the polls to elect their representatives to the European Parliament. The outgoing parliament faced historic challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic to Russia’s war in Ukraine. It rose to the occasion, advancing key legislative proposals and promoting the European Green Deal as a flagship project. By Roderick Kefferpütz
"We all must fight for our democracy" Interview The Europe that will go to the polls in June 2024 is very different from that of 2019. Pandemic recovery, the climate and energy crisis, war in the continent, and the rise of the far right are all driving the narratives of the electoral campaign, but also mobilising progressive forces. Roderick Kefferpütz interviews MEP Terry Reintke, Co-President of the Greens/EFA Group and Spitzenkandidatin for the European Greens, on Green solutions for Europe in uncertain and volatile times. By Roderick Kefferpütz and Terry Reintke
Böll EU Newsletter 1/2024 - Defending Europe in uncertain times Newsletter The fabric of the European security order is fraying. Putin’s imperialist revisionism threatens Europe. Trump is undermining US security guarantees for Europe. And Orbán’s vetoes are impeding European action. This is nothing new; the writing has been on the wall for a long time. What has changed is the urgency. Putin’s revisionism, Trump’s erraticism, and Orbán’s obstructionism are coming to a head. It’s crunch time. By Roderick Kefferpütz
A vision for delivering the European Green Deal in the new EU policy cycle Analysis With the European elections just around the corner and the subsequent appointment of a new European Commission, the next phase of the European transition to climate neutrality is about to begin. This article touches upon some key topics and challenges that lie ahead in the near future to ensure an effective implementation of the European Green Deal (EGD). By Mattia Bonfanti and Irene Chiocchetti
Southeast Europe: Plundering the Western Balkans Analysis Corrupt politicians have been systematically plundering public budgets and natural resources in the Western Balkans for years. Increasingly, international actors are also discovering an El Dorado for dubious investments in these countries. By Marion Kraske
The bebt brake must not become a brake on the future President's column With the floods in northern Germany, the relaxation of the country’s debt brake is back on the agenda. But instead of always returning to the same debates, what is finally needed is sustainable reform. A new study shows what this could look like and sets out the options for financing climate protection over the short term. By Jan Philipp Albrecht
Smart, fair and flexible: lessons from the smart meter rollouts in Great Britain Analysis Smart energy technologies can enable citizens to benefit from cheap renewable energy. They potentially optimise the use of our energy infrastructure, promising lower societal costs. However, one-size-fits-all solutions will not work when it comes to their daily use – with potentially significant risks to vulnerable households already struggling with fuel poverty. An inclusive smart energy transition should target the consumers most in need with more nuanced policies. By Nickhil Sharma
Our best wishes for 2024 Greetings 2023 was a particularly challenging year. With the highest number of conflicts since 1945, we saw a world at war. It was the hottest year in recorded history, with “climate records tumbling like dominoes”. Challenges don’t disappear with a new year; we know that 2024 will be demanding. This year’s super election cycle is also testimony to the resilience of democracy and offers an opportunity for like-minded states to come together to solve shared challenges. By Roderick Kefferpütz
Forests vs palm oil Report Deforestation — the widespread clearing of forests for various purposes — has become a critical global issue with profound environmental, social, and economic consequences. Driven by factors like agriculture, logging, and urban expansion, this destructive practice exacerbates climate change, threatens biodiversity, and jeopardizes communities worldwide. In this report, we explore the multifaceted reasons why deforestation requires immediate attention and action. By Michael Anthony and Marcus Pfeil
‘Fire on fire’: how migrants got blamed for Greece’s devastating blazes Climate Disinformation Media Fellowship 2023 In August, wildfires in Evros killed a group of people, including children, passing along a well-trodden migration route. Locals and politicians made the victims scapegoats for the disaster. First piece of our 2023 Climate Disinformation Fellowship by Giorgos Christides and Katy Fallon. Photos by Alexandros Avramidis. By Giorgos Christides and Katy Fallon
Laundering captured carbon: how CCS produces more oil Analysis Though many authors write that captured CO2 can and is being safely buried deep underground in geologic formations or depleted oil and gas reservoirs, most articles fail to mention that the overwhelmingly single biggest use of all captured CO2 is to directly produce more oil. By L. Michael Buchsbaum
State of the Union address: Ursula von der Leyen’s bid for a second term in office Analysis In her address, European Commission President von der Leyen missed the opportunity to develop bold proposals for the future. This contribution analyses her informal bid for a second term in office by looking at her thematic focuses. By Roderick Kefferpütz , Lisa Sandtner , Anton Möller , Zora Siebert , Melanie Bernhofer and Hannah Goerlich
Peatland protection pays off - Massive conservation and restoration is needed Press release With more than two billion tonnes of CO2, the draining of peatlands is responsible for about 4% of all human-made emissions globally. This is outlined in the Peatland Atlas 2023 - Facts and figures on wet climate guardians, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, the Michael Succow Stiftung (partners in the Greifswald Mire Centre) and BUND (Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland/Friends of the Earth Germany), with support of the Global Peatlands Initiative. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung , Succow Stiftung , BUND für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland and Global Peatlands Initiative
Of mires and myths: not just a crime scene Peatland Atlas 2023 For thousands of years, peatlands have served as the backdrop for horror stories. In gruesome legends and lore, they swallow people and even whole towns, are the home of ghosts, the devil, and many other supernatural spectacles. By Elmar Tannert
Transformation: a feasible opportunity - without alternative Peatland Atlas 2023 Rewetting drained peatlands will be a major challenge for societies all over the globe. Achieving success will take innovativeness, political initiative and a paradigm shift in the global economy. By Dr. Uta Berghöfer , Sabrina Hüpperling and Jan Peters
Africa: guardians of biodiversity and climate stability Peatland Atlas 2023 Some of the world’s most important and most recently recognized peatlands can be found on the African continent. They are home to unique and rare flora and fauna – and threatened by the oil companies’ greed for money. By Irene Wabiwa Betoko , Samer Elshehawi and Inka Dewitz
Southeast Asia: progress for peatlands Peatland Atlas 2023 By Faizal Parish , Serena Lew and Linda Archibald
Latin America and the Caribbean: you cannot protect what you do not know Peatland Atlas 2023 From lowland swamps dominated by tall palms to the treeless cushion bogs of the high Andes, Latin America and the Caribbean are home to a huge range of peatlands. But relatively little is known about them – making conservation difficult. By Mónica Maldonado-Fonken and Cristina Malpica-Piñeros
Europe: small continent, ancient landscapes Peatland Atlas 2023 Few peatlands in Europe are located within protected areas, and even there, they are not always protected adequately. National agricultural policies provide little or no support for the development of sustainable peatland-management practices. By Dr. Franziska Tanneberger and Asbjørn Moen
North America: ice age legacy Peatland Atlas 2023 One-third of the world’s peatlands are in North America. Those landscapes close to urban areas have suffered severe degradation, and urgent repair work is needed to restore them. In the north of the continent, peatlands are increasingly threatened by the oil and mining industries. By Maria Strack , Marissa Davies and Curt Richardson
Energy: scorched earth Peatland Atlas 2023 People have been using peat for heat since the Bronze Age. They still do so today in countries like Finland, Belarus and Rwanda. This is not sustainable – but there are new, climate-friendly ideas for how peatlands can help generate heat and power. By Monika Hohlbein
Paludiculture: more from the marsh Peatland Atlas 2023 Reeds are used to make thatch for roofs, and grass fibres are used to make furniture: paludiculture combines peatland conservation with agriculture. Strong political support is needed to give this sustainable way of using rewetted peatlands a chance of success. By Anke Nordt and Susanne Abel
European Union: defending diversity Peatland Atlas 2023 Europe is rich in peat landscapes, which differ widely according to the region and climate. But one thing that the European Union’s programmes to protect peatlands have in common is that they are not very effective. By André Prescher-Spiridon and Christian Rehmer
Supply chains: the consequences of consumption Peatland Atlas 2023 The consumption and production of commodities such as timber are major drivers of deforestation and forest degradation. They also cause peatland degradation on a grand scale. By Lea Appulo and Thomas Westhoff
Rewetting: fill it up to the top Peatland Atlas 2023 Drainage pipes and ditches are still being used to drain peatlands. Rewetting is urgently needed to protect both the climate and biodiversity. But how does this work – and what do we have to consider? By Jutta Walter and Mathias Büttner
Forestry: peat, wind & fire Peatland Atlas 2023 Three percent of the world’s peatlands have been destroyed for forestry purposes, releasing large quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Drained peat soils are the scene of devastating fires that are used to clear land. By Harri Vasander
Livestock: the cows that eat peat Peatland Atlas 2023 Our consumption of livestock products has an effect on the climate – through the emission of greenhouse gases and the conversion of natural landscapes into agricultural land. Even more greenhouse gases escape into the atmosphere when peatlands are drained to allow livestock-keeping or to grow fodder crops. By Dr. Sabine Wichmann
Peat: peatlands' raw materials Peatland Atlas 2023 Peat consists of dead organic matter accumulated over thousands of years. Since centuries, peat soils have been exploited to obtain fuel or raw material for growing media. Peat extraction and use is harmful to the environment. Sustainable alternatives will only prevail if politicians act. By Greta Gaudig and Olivier Hirschler
Environmental history: fallacies of improvement Peatland Atlas 2023 Humans have drained peatlands for centuries to provide land for farming and settlement. History may help us recognize the fallacies of supposed improvement, remember the presence of destroyed and often invisible peatlands in our landscapes, and advocate for the protection and restoration of peatlands. By Dr. Katja Bruisch
Biodiversity: safe havens for ecosystem in danger Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands all over the world sustain a rich range of habitats and species, including a wide range of threatened and endemic ones. Policymakers are called upon to protect these unique landscapes. By Tatiana Minayeva
Climate crisis: drained peatland results in heated planet Peatland Atlas 2023 Because they take up greenhouse gases, peatlands cool the climate – but only as long as they are intact. But these peat-covered areas have been – and still are being – drained for agriculture, forestry, peat extraction and human settlement, exacerbating global warming. By Hans Joosten
Sustainability goals: live-giving moisture Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands and other types of wetlands foster biodiversity and protect humans and nature from drought and flooding. But they are some of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet. Current efforts to conserve them have so far proven inadequate. By Inka Dewitz and Dianna Kopansky
Peatlands around the world: under threat almost everywhere Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands exist in the mountains, in lowlands, along rivers and at the coast. Their vegetation and condition vary from one climate zone to another, but all types of peatland have one thing in common: their continued existence is in danger. By Dr. Alexandra Barthelmes
Peatland destruction: help needed Peatland Atlas 2023 Huge areas of peatland around the world have already been destroyed. In the tropics, peat swamp forests are being cut down and the land drained. Fires and climate crisis also pose threats. Attempts to protect the peatlands have so far had little success. By Heike Holdinghausen
12 brief lessons about peatlands Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands form in places where the ground is constantly wet. They are rich in species and can store carbon to help protect the climate.
What are mires and peatlands? A very special ecosystem Peatland Atlas 2023 Mires are intact peatlands and home to rare plants, rare animals – and enormous amounts of carbon. But draining them for economic reasons puts them and their resident organisms at massive risk. It poses a massive threat to the climate too. By Greta Gaudig and Dr. Franziska Tanneberger
Peatland Atlas 2023: Foreword Peatland Atlas 2023 Peatlands are a mixture of elements: they are both water and land at the same time. They form where the soil is wet all year round. Waterlogging prevents dead plant material from decomposing, creating their characteristic organic soils over thousands of years. And peatlands can be found all over the world, from the Arctic to Europe and the tropics, all the way to Tierra del Fuego at the tip of South America. They are impressive ecosystems, rich in rare animal and plant species. Their peat soils store enormous amounts of carbon, so they play a decisive role in climate protection – as long as they stay wet. By Dr. Imme Scholz , Antje von Broock , Jan Peters and Dianna Kopansky
We still can safeguard our freedoms Commentary The catastrophic flooding in Italy shows how the climate crisis is already threatening our lives and quality of living here in Europe. We know what we need to do to slow it down. But the longer we wait, the greater the restrictions on our freedom will be in the future. By Jan Philipp Albrecht
Roderick Kefferpütz, new Director of Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union Press release Roderick Kefferpütz is the new Director of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union office in Brussels as of 15 May 2023. He takes over from Eva van de Rakt, who has been Head of the European Union and North America Division at the headquarters of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Berlin since May 2023. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Roderick Kefferpütz
“Social justice must be strengthened in European legislation” Interview In her interview with Dr. Christine Pütz, Terry Reintke, Co-President of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament, offers her opinion on the study “Actually European?! Citizen Expectations towards German EU Policy in the Context of Crisis and Transformation” and makes the case for Germany’s commitment to show its dependability and solidarity. By Dr. Christine Pütz and Terry Reintke
Why the European response to the IRA must be more Europe Commentary The EU’s half-baked response to the U.S. investment offensive is putting its competitiveness and our future prosperity at risk. Now is the time for deeper European integration and major adjustments to EU treaty law. By Jan Philipp Albrecht
Decarbonisation during and after the war: Where Ukraine is headed Interview Ukraine needs decarbonisation — the state's goal in combatting climate change and fulfilling its respective international commitments. Meanwhile, Russia's war against Ukraine continues, with infrastructure and housing being increasingly ruined, territories being mine-studded, and natural habitats being destroyed daily. That infrastructure would need rebuilding, which means increased emissions from construction sites and the operation of new enterprises. Alyona Vyshnytska interviews Oksana Aliieva, former coordinator of the Climate Change and Energy Policy Programme at the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung's Kyiv office, and Anna Ackerman, board member of Ecoaction NGO and policy analyst at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). By Alyona Vyshnytska
Why renewable energy is a guarantee of security for Ukraine during and after the war Interview As of the end of December 2022, Russia's massive attacks in Ukraine had damaged or destroyed about 50% of the power system, including substations and high-voltage power lines. Every day, Russia continues to shell Ukrainian infrastructure, causing new damage. At the same time, Ukraine is already formulating a post-war recovery plan, including in the area of secure renewable energy. How to plan for recovery in the acute stage of war and will Ukraine be able to switch to 100% renewable energy sources after the end of hostilities? What can Ukraine and the European Union do to help? Read about this in an interview with Natalia Lytvyn, project coordinator of the NGO Ecoclub and the Energy Transition Coalition, and Kostiantyn Krynytskyi, head of the energy department at EcoAction. By Alyona Vyshnytska
Developing a green vision of the Single Market Foreword Throughout the last three decades, the Single Market project has been discussed controversially: for some, it is the idea of a united Europe working together, whereas for others it is an elite-driven process that leaves many behind. However, for the green movement it was part of the promise to ensure the economic and social inclusion of Europeans, and a critical building block to an ever-closer European Union. Discussing the future of the Single Market therefore also means discussing the future of European integration as a whole. By Eva van de Rakt and Anton Möller
It is time to update our Green vision on a circular market that delivers for citizens Essay Within the framework of the EU Green Deal, the Single Market is slowly turning into a tool to fight the climate crisis. In recent years, more and more legislation with regard to a circular economy has become law, enabling the green transition. But we have to do more. We have to fundamentally rethink our narrative of the Single Market, its role in the world and its way of delivering for the people. By Anna Cavazzini
A Single Market 2.0 for the future: more social, more environmental and with a place for open strategic autonomy Essay The long cycle that began with the creation of the internal market, whose first phase brought opportunities for the social dimension but which ultimately led to global integration, resulting in a long period of anti-social policies, has come to an end. We are now entering into a new period, in which the rules of the internal market are changing in response to the need for environmental sustainability and strategic autonomy. The question now is what place the social dimension will occupy in this new architecture. By Philippe Pochet
Let's undo the damage caused by the Single Market Essay There is little reason to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Single Market. We urgently need industrial policies that are truly European. This is essential, particularly in the fields of digital technology and ecological transition, which raises questions of means, in particular. We also need to change the competition policy to encourage consolidation of European companies, instead of fighting it. By William Desmonts
A consumer perspective for the Single Market 2.0 Essay The Single Market has been a pillar of the EU since its conception. However, the focus so far has been on how to make it easier for companies to operate across the EU and the European Economic Area. Much more attention needs to be paid to the social and environmental dimensions of the Single Market, and this certainly includes consumers, who are the ultimate beneficiaries of its policies. By Agustín Reyna
Thirty years of the Single Market: corporate complaints and deregulation pressure endanger the ecological transition Essay While it makes sense to celebrate 30 years of a border-free EU market for goods and services, there is also an urgent need for a critical assessment. This should start with discussing the limits of the Single Market, namely which areas of our societies should be covered by Single Market rules and which should not. By Olivier Hoedeman
Towards a Single Market that works for the environment through ambitious product policy and standards Essay The EU Single Market needs profound reform. We must place reuse, refill and repair at its heart, and enable a digital transition that is green and just for everyone. One concrete step leading the transformation should be ambitious EU ecodesign requirements for products and services, supported by inclusive harmonised European standards, and properly enforced by national authorities. By Rita Tedesco and Ioana Popescu
The Single Market as a global beacon: a view from the past – and across the Channel Essay When we look across the world, we see that social and environmental standards are far higher in the EU than in any other national or regional economy. It didn’t have to go that way, but our political power, skill and determination has turned the Single Market into a force for good. We should celebrate that achievement before moving on to consider the next 30 years. By Molly Scott Cato
Pandemic, war and climate: transport in times of crises Analysis This analysis seeks to unravel the intricate web of factors influencing mobility in the wake of three transformative events - Covid-19, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, and the climate crisis. These events have had a profound impact on the way we move, and it is essential to understand the evolving patterns of travel, the resilience of transportation systems, the role of technology, and the policy responses that have emerged to address these challenges. By Philipp Cerny
Africans ready to take the bull by the horn to COP27 Commentary Africa will host international climate talks on 6-18 November 2022 and the African Union has been busy trying to get the rest of the world’s attention on the continent's expectations in the lead up to COP27. Of course, COP27 expectations are matched only by their disappointments. However, Africans are not leaving the fate of its people to chance. By Michael Davies-Venn
Europe must slash pesticide use to protect people’s and planet’s health Press release New ‘Pesticide Atlas’ by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, Friends of the Earth Europe and PAN Europe reveals toxic global impact of hazardous chemicals used in agriculture. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung , Friends of the Earth Europe and Pesticide Action Network Europe
Pesticide-free regions: good examples Pesticide Atlas 2022 All over the world, projects are proving that an ecological future is possible: More and more cities, states, and regions are trying to slash pesticide use; or even ban chemical agents completely from their fields and land. By Ulrike Bickel
EU policies: objectives are not enough Pesticide Atlas 2022 Even though the EU’s pesticide legislation is the most sophisticated, it has failed to achieve a reduction in use. The EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy seeks to change that. Many questions remain. By Clara Bourgin and André Prescher-Spiridon
Digital transformation: who really benefits from digitalization Pesticide Atlas 2022 Agricultural robotics, drones, and algorithm-driven technologies for a new way of farming are becoming big business. They are supposed to help farms cut pesticide use, but there are serious doubts whether this will work. By Heike Holdinghausen
Brazil: more cultivation, more pesticides, more exports Pesticide Atlas 2022 As one of the world’s largest importers of agrochemicals and exporters of agriculture goods, Brazil sets record for pesticide consumption. A significant part of the pesticides used there is produced in the European Union – and highly hazardous. By Larissa Mies Bombardi
Youth survey: change wanted Pesticide Atlas 2022 Young people in Germany are worried about pesticide use in agriculture and call on politicians to take action. They demand more emphasis on ecological management of fields and plead for stronger support for farmers. By Dr. Anke Zühlsdorf , Dr. Dominic Lemken and Prof. Dr. Achim Spiller
Gender: at the forefront of the exposure Pesticide Atlas 2022 Women working in agriculture often have lower levels of income and lack decision-making power. There is urgent need for gender equality to achieve food security and protection from pesticide exposure. By Ilang-Ilang Quijano
Glyphosate: a manufactured controversy Pesticide Atlas 2022 Bayer and other companies are fighting for the re-approval of glyphosate in the EU. To do so, they must prove that their pesticide active substance is not carcinogenic. But the studies presented are old – and point to the opposite. By Helmut Butscher-Schaden
Imports and exports: banned but sold anyway Pesticide Atlas 2022 Many pesticides are banned in the European Union. It is illegal to use them in EU Member States, yet it is allowed to produce and export them to third countries – where they pose great risks to people and their environment. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans
Smallholder farmers: new markets, less regulation Pesticide Atlas 2022 In Africa, fewer pesticides are used than in other regions of the world. Nevertheless the 33 million smallholders are increasingly becoming the focus of pesticide companies. There they also sell what has been banned in the European Union. By Layla Liebetrau
Genetic engineering: modified crops, more pesticides Pesticide Atlas 2022 Genetically modified crops were supposed to reduce the use of chemicals in agriculture, reduce workloads, and increase crop yields. These promises could not be kept. By Martha Mertens
Hardly hazardous pesticides: a global human rights concern Pesticide Atlas 2022 Substances that are proven to present a particularly high level of acute or chronic risk to health or the environment are commonly referred to as Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). Far too rarely are these substances withdrawn from circulation – especially in the Global South they cause great harm. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans
Insect decline: an ecological armaggedon Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insects provide pollination services to flowering plants, control pests and ensure abundant harvests. For a long time their populations have declined dramatically – causing disaster for humans and nature. Pesticides are considered a major reason for the decline. By Dave Goulson
Long-range transport: gone with the wind Pesticide Atlas 2022 Pesticides rarely stay in the place where they have been applied. Wind can move dust, particles, and droplets to residential areas close to agricultural land – or carry it to places many kilometres away. Approval processes are largely ignoring this problem. By Johanna Bär , Johannes Heimrath and Anna Satzger
Water: go with the flow Pesticide Atlas 2022 Studies regularly reveal how pesticides contaminate rivers, lakes, coastal waters and groundwater. The pollutants often originate in agriculture and enter surface water via infiltration, surface runoff and drift. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr
Beneficial insects: nature's little helper Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insects such as ladybugs or predatory wasps act as natural enemies against pests and as effective plant protectors. They are good for the environment and help cutting costs – but their habitats are under threat from pesticide use. By Henrike von der Decken and Moritz Nabel
Biodiversity: extinction in full swing Pesticide Atlas 2022 Experts have been warning for years that biodiversity is at stake. Pesticides have been identified as one of the causes for why the abundance of animals and plant species is deteriorating so quickly and disastrously. By Katrin Wenz
Residues: toxic side dish Pesticide Atlas 2022 Pesticide use leads to residues in food to which many people are exposed – especially in the Global South. But as an import, contaminated food can also end up on European plates. By Dr. Silke Bollmohr and Susan Haffmans
Soils: impact on the invisible ecosystem Pesticide Atlas 2022 Insufficient attention is being paid to pesticides accumulating in the soil, where they exert direct and indirect adverse effects on soil life – sometimes for decades. By Johann Zaller
Health: severe consequences Pesticide Atlas 2022 385 million people fall ill every year from pesticide poisoning. The United Nations intend to improve the worldwide handling of pesticides to prevent harm, but there is little effective legal regulation. By Wolfgang Bödeker
Approval procedures: underestimated risks Pesticide Atlas 2022 Before they are put on the market, pesticides go through an approval process in which their impacts on human health and the environment are tested. But their indirect effects on food chains and biodiversity receive little attention, neither do the effects of pesticide mixtures that are hard to predict. By Carsten Brühl and Johann Zaller
Pesticide use in the EU: noxious status quo for people and planet Pesticide Atlas 2022 The European Union is one of the world’s biggest markets for pesticides. Policies to reduce their use have not been very successful so far. The lack of standardized data makes monitoring and comparing countries difficult. By Lisa Tostado
Corporations: big profits with toxic trade Pesticide Atlas 2022 The global pesticide market is growing – and there are only a few corporations that are dividing it up among themselves. They are increasingly investing in countries in the Global South, where pesticides are less strictly regulated. By Carla Hoinkes
Pesticides and agriculture: dangerous substances Pesticide Atlas 2022 Parts of global crop production are lost to pests and plant pathogens each year. Pesticides have been designed to prevent these yield losses – but they also give rise to new problems. By Lisa Tostado
12 brief lessons about pesticides in agriculture Pesticide Atlas 2022 More and more highly toxic pesticides are being used in agriculture worldwide, although the consequences for our ecosystem are serious. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union , Friends of the Earth Europe , Pesticide Action Network Europe and BUND für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland
Pesticide Atlas 2022: Foreword Pesticide Atlas 2022 The EU is the largest pesticide export market in the world, now investing more and more in countries of the Global South, where EU companies are allowed to export pesticides banned on their own due to their harmful effects on human health and the environment. A longstanding demand of international civil society calls for laws that effectively ban these toxic exports. By Jan Philipp Albrecht , Dr. Imme Scholz , Jagoda Munić , Dr. Martin Dermine and Olaf Bandt
Will dirty nationalism become the new normal? Analysis The situation in the energy sector has led to national strategies that often conflict with the policies of neighbours and allies, and at the same time to a significant move away from clean energy sources. In other words, we have a "dirty nationalism", writes Martin Keim. By Martin Keim
Challenges for cross-border railways in Europe European Mobility Atlas 2021 The technical problems with international rail in Europe are quite well understood. But are there ways to improve the situation while not challenging the fundamental status quo? Ways where, at the border, some basic changes could improve matters for international railway travellers? By Jon Worth
Climate pragmatism or Faustian bargain? What the new US climate law does—and where it fails Analysis The Inflation Reduction Act is seen as an expression of climate pragmatism by some and a Faustian bargain with the fossil fuel industry by others. What exactly is it? By Liane Schalatek
Governing the future of aerospace, the maritime industry and tourism European Mobility Atlas 2021 After the German federal elections in September 2021, the Greens joined a government coalition with the Social Democrats and the Liberals. MdBs Dr. Anna Christmann and Claudia Müller are respectively the new Federal Government Coordinators of German Aerospace Policy, and for the Maritime Industry and for Tourism. Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim conducted a joint interview to find out more about their priorities and thoughts. By Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim
“The keyword must be greater European capacity for action” Interview Anna Lührmann, Minister of State for Europe and Climate at the German Federal government, talks to Christine Pütz about the results of the "Actually European?! 2022" study and what the citizens expect from Germany’s European policy at this “turning point in history”. By Dr. Anna Lührmann and Dr. Christine Pütz
The Czech Presidency of the EU Council: Europe as a task Analysis On 1 July 2022, the Czech Republic took over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for six months. Our office Directors in Brussels and Prague, Eva van de Rakt and Adéla Jurečková, analyse the priorities of and challenges facing the Czech EU Council Presidency. By Eva van de Rakt and Adéla Jurečková
Windfall profits in energy markets: acute symptoms of structural problems Analysis Energy prices in Europe have soared to new highs since the autumn of 2021, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine amplifying the trend and bringing energy supply to the forefront of conversations regarding the mitigation of impacts of the war on Europe. This study, based on data from Germany and Spain, shows that whilst electricity prices rose, so did the profits of energy companies. These developments were exacerbated by the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine but are also symptomatic for wider issues within the European electricity market. Windfall profit taxation can help to soften the blow of high energy prices, but we also need longer term restructuring of the market mechanisms, argues Suzana Carp. By Suzana Carp
EU risks prolonging dependence on fossil gas rather than decisively moving towards alternatives Press release A new report by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (DUH) finds that current EU energy supply policies run the risk of prolonging dependence on fossil gas rather than decisively moving towards alternatives, particularly in the heating sector.
Russian fossil fuels embargo: “Dictatorships fall when there is enough pressure” Interview Climate activists around the world are calling for an embargo on fossil fuels from Russia, because its profits are funding Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Climate policy expert Svitlana Romanko launched an ambitious campaign right after Russia's invasion began on 24 February 2022. By Alyona Vyshnytska
Glimmerland: human rights in the mica supply chain Article A satellite image-based investigation by Vertical52 reveals the extent of child labor in illegal mines in India that produce mica, a critical mineral for the tech industry. The research illustrates the need for stricter rules for companies like the ones the EU proposes in its draft directive on corporate sustainability due diligence. The investigation also shows that comprehensive solutions have to go beyond import bans and corporate liability. By Sabine Muscat and Lisa Tostado
Making mobility accessible to all European Mobility Atlas 2021 Every passenger aims to get from point A to B as quickly, easily and affordably as possible. For persons with reduced mobility, one cannot talk of fair and equal access. European mobility can only be sustainable if public transport is accessible for everybody. Otherwise, users will always revert to the solution of motorised private transport. Consequently, the freedom of mobility is strongly related to the question of accessibility to the different means of transport for everybody. By Stephanie Aeffner and Philipp Cerny
Sanctioning Russian fossil may be costly, but it is feasible Commentary In the midst of a cruel war and an unfolding climate crisis, Europe has to answer a crucial question: how do we cut our energy ties with Russia, while at the same time accelerating our transition towards energy efficiency and a renewable energy system? Commentary by Green MEP Bas Eickhout. By Bas Eickhout
How to break Czechia's dependence on Russian gas Analysis What longer-term, environmentally sustainable measures can the Czech Republic introduce to break its dependence on Russian gas while ensuring that no one is left behind? By Jiří Koželouh and Karel Polanecký
The case for a Social Guarantee: Universal access to life’s essentials Paper The Social Guarantee refocuses progressive politics on human relations, on how we care for each other, and on the importance of investing in the social infrastructure on which the rest of the economy depends. It draws on current thinking about the foundational economy, the care economy, and sustainable economic prosperity It offers a coherent, ethical, and well-evidenced basis from which to address such issues as investment, regulation, and carbon mitigation. By Anna Coote
Why Fostering Socio-economic Convergence in the EU Is Necessary for Successful Climate Change Mitigation Paper This paper has argued that an active industrial policy that is context appropriate, coherent, and adaptable can be utilised to address this challenge. Nevertheless, one must acknowledge that the necessary green transition on the EU level comes with transition costs, challenges, and opportunities that affect distinct people, firms, and countries very differently, and hence bears the threat of rising inequalities, both within and among countries. Central to the success of a green transition is, therefore, the EU’s adequate reaction to this fact. This reaction can then enable and facilitate a green transformation that really leaves no one behind. By Claudius Gräbner-Radkowitsch and Jakob Hafele
Just Who Gets Paid-Off in a “Just” Transition? Some difficult lessons from BlackRock and French populists Paper This paper links two things that are often dealt with separately when discussing what we mean by the word “just” in the notion of a “just transition”. On the one hand, activists and reformers see this as an opportunity to empower marginalised populations and redistribute wealth-generating assets using the state in the form of green industrial policy. On the other hand lies private finance, especially in the form of asset managers, who own huge swathes of global companies. These competing notions of “just” are used as a way to discuss how to have a transition that leverages the investments of the private sector without once again simply giving capital everything it wants at the expense of everyone else. By Daniel Driscoll and Mark Blyth
The Macroeconomics of a Green Transformation: The Role of Green Investment Paper A green transformation of the economy will require a major commitment to green investment to reduce and respond to environmental degradation. The main objective of this paper is to explore the macroeconomic implications of green investment in the transformation to a green economy. By Peter A. Victor
Beyond Carbon Pricing: Six sustainability transition policy principles for net zero Paper Sustainability transition perspectives are receiving increasing attention in policy and practice. This paper discusses how they can be used to address the net-zero energy transition, which is an extraordinary challenge given its complexity and urgency. It highlights six key principles to guide “transitions based” decarbonisation policies: system transformation, effectiveness, sensitivity to context, adapting policies to transition phases, policy evaluation and learning, and politics. By Jochen Markard
Climate Policy from a Keynesian Point of View Paper People may arrive in one or the other of these camps for many reasons. Advocates of the investment-centred approach tend to link climate policy to broader concerns over economic justice. Developments like the Gilets Jaunes protests in France, and more recent responses to rising energy prices in the wake of the war in Ukraine, have raised doubts about the viability of aggressive carbon pricing, making an investment-centred approach more attractive. More subtle, but equally important, are the different underlying economic visions behind the two approaches to climate policy. This paper brings these submerged differences to the surface. By J. W. Mason
The Role of Financial Markets in a Green Transformation Paper What is the role of financial markets in a green transformation? There are two key aspects to this question. First, what should be the balance between private and public funding of the transformation? Second, what are the dangers that our modern financial market structure poses to a successful green transformation? By Carolyn Sissoko
Green Central Banking Paper The green turn in central banking has generated considerable controversy. Some voices have questioned central banks’ growing engagement with climate issues, arguing that unaccountable technocrats do not have the tools or the political legitimacy to intervene in (or possibly highjack) the low-carbon transition. Others question the continued emphasis on voluntary decarbonisation, even among green champions in the central bank community. This paper intervenes in and nuances this “too little vs too much” debate. By Daniela Gabor
Changing Europe’s Fiscal Rules: Unleashing public investment for a socially just Green Deal Paper This paper critically examines whether the European fiscal framework will be sufficient to stabilise the macro economy in the aftermath of the multiple crises, let alone achieve the goals of a green transition that leads to full capacity utilisation of the economy. The reader will come to understand that private finance alone is neither sufficient nor desirable to achieve the goals of a socially just green transition. By Frank van Lerven
Winning the Marathon and the Sprint: Achieving long-term economic policy objectives in an era of short-term responses Paper This article wants to provide food for thought on what a long-term economic policy could look like. In the context of the climate crisis, increasing inequality, the loss of biodiversity and financial instability, the challenge is to craft a strategic approach that can set the course for long-term success. By Jonathan Barth , Jakob Hafele and Adam Tooze
Making the great turnaround work: Preface Preface This publication series aims at contributing to the emergence of a transformative economic thinking, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions, after the wreckage of neoliberal economic thought that clearly has reached its date of expiry. It is the product of a collaboration of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, the ZOE Institute for future-fit economies, and Finanzwende Recherche. By Jörg Haas
Sustainable Prosperity in an Uncertain Future: A shared agenda between green growth and degrowth Paper This paper attempts to overcome the polarisation between inclusive green growth and degrowth. The authors suggest that the idea of “post-growth” can serve as a unifying concept and define the pillars of a progressive economic policy agenda that can help Germany, the European Union, and the United States achieve their net-zero ambitions while ensuring prosperity and reducing inequality. By Jonathan Barth and Michael Jacobs
The climate crisis and the war in Ukraine's common denominator: fossil fuels dependence Commentary The consequences of the war in Ukraine are palpable even in Bratislava, over a thousand kilometres from the border. Ukrainian is heard more often on the streets, cars with Ukrainian number plates are appearing on the roads, the windows of shops and apartments are festooned with Ukrainian flags, and the city is alive with marches and initiatives in support of Ukraine. The only thing that has remained unaffected is the flow of oil and gas from Russia to Slovakia, and our payments for it. By Dorota Osvaldová
Away from Russian gas: Germany and Europe must swap their dependencies on fossil fuels for green energy partnerships Analysis As Germany moves away from Russian energy imports, new dependencies on fossil energies must be avoided. The potential alternative from energy-saving, renewables and European cooperation offers excellent opportunities in the short, medium and long terms. But this will require new, green energy partnerships built on a new foundation of values. By Sascha Müller-Kraenner and Constantin Zerger
CAP Strategic Plans: Observation Letters under scrutiny Analysis On 31 March 2022, the 19 EU Member States that submitted their CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs) by the 1 January 2022 deadline received their awaited Observation Letters. In this article we discuss the implications of the European Commission backtracking on a transparent process and explore the content of Observation Letters that have been partially released. By Mathieu Willard
Statement on the ban of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Russia Press release By banning the work of German political foundations, the Russian leadership is purposefully trying to block an essential, independent channel of communication between our societies. We deeply regret this further escalation by the Russian authorities. We will maintain contact with all those who are working courageously, creatively, steadfastly and with conviction for a different, peaceful and democratic Russia. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
The EU must do more to stop funding the Russian war in Ukraine! Interview With the EU’s ongoing purchase of Russian energy resources, the regime that is responsible for the current barbaric war in Ukraine is guaranteed a constant cash flow. Proponents of an embargo want to maximise the economic and financial pressure on Putin and withdraw financing from the Russian war machine. By Robert Sperfeld
Ending Russia's war of aggression with economic and energy policy options Commentary The primary goal must be to stop the war of aggression on Ukraine launched by Russia on 24 February 2022. The sanctions of EU and NATO countries are currently in contrast to the dependence on Russian raw material and energy supplies. Hundreds of millions of euros flow from Germany to Russia every day, counteracting the effect of the sanctions. This should now be an incentive to reassess the costs of more radical fossil fuel exit scenarios in the shortest possible time under crisis conditions. By Walter Kaufmann
Rethinking EU energy policy and energy efficiency: a Greek perspective Analysis The Russian invasion of Ukraine in late February 2022 brought home what most of us knew already but had assigned secondary importance to: renewable energy properly deployed is not only good for the environment and human health, it is also good for people’s pockets and their freedom. By Elias Gianniris and Georgios Kostakos
Energy efficiency is the best choice for Europe’s energy sovereignty! Commentary The inability to adequately sanction the criminal invasion of Ukraine by Russian President Putin painfully demonstrates Europe’s massive dependencies from fossil fuel imports. Phasing out fossil fuels is no longer “just” about fighting the climate crisis, but also a precondition for Europe’s energy sovereignty and price stability. By Jutta Paulus
The end of energy resource imports from Russia? Commentary On February 24, Russia started the war in Ukraine. Nothing will be the same again. Russia's brutal attack made the ongoing conflict around energy resources all the more obvious. This article analyses what options Poland has to break its energy dependence on Russia. By Dr. Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera and Dr. Aleksandra Gawlikowska-Fyk
A Russian oil embargo: objectives and possible impacts Analysis The introduction of an oil embargo could significantly increase economic pressure on Russia. While the effect of an embargo on Russian military capabilities over the coming months would be minimal, it is unclear at present how long the war will last and whether it will spread beyond Ukraine. In the worst case, the West is currently financing a future war against itself. By Dr. Janis Kluge
Green transition in the global framework Analysis The concept of “just transition” has so far arrived in Eastern and Southeastern Europe only as a fragment of nice environmental jargon. There is a lack of protagonists strong enough to create conditions for a more powerful social and political impact. In order to act within ecological limits and remain below a warming of 1.5° Celsius, we must also consume less. Until now, consumption, like growth, has been equated with well-being and prosperity. By Vedran Horvat
Bosnia and Herzegovina: dismantling monopolies in the green transition Analysis Bosnia-Herzegovina wants to phase out fossil fuels by 2050. For the country, which is largely dependent on coal, this is a serious turning point. However, the word "transition", which is often used for this process, is rather hated by the population, because it is not associated with equality and justice, but rather with an enriching political elite. By Majda Ibraković
Wallonia’s CAP Strategic Plan: better late than never? Analysis This article intends to shed some light on the bumpy road that led to Wallonia’s not yet finalised CAP Strategic Plan. Focussing first on understanding the delays, we’ll then expose how an originally inclusive debate has lowered itself to the level of their neighbour’s. Finally, we’ll take a look at the decision taken on coupled payments for livestock, what it implies in terms of economic sustainability and try to understand if this decision can be balanced by eco-schemes intervention. By Mathieu Willard and Matteo Metta
The mobility of families: a key factor in the transition towards emissions-free cities and transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Small steps are necessary to implement big changes. More specifically, the steps of society’s youngest members. If the way families move shifts towards a more sustainable (and less car-centred) mode, a considerable reduction of emissions of the traffic sector can be achieved. By Hendrikje Lučić
It’s time for climate competition with China Comment Brussels and Beijing are entering a new phase in their climate relations. Gone are the days when the EU and China were only climate partners. Now Brussels would be well-served to compete and spur China on when it comes to climate protection. By Roderick Kefferpütz
How European security is changing Commentary Migration policy, economic and trade policy, health policy, technology policy, and climate policy are increasingly being thought of in terms of “security”. By Alice Billon-Galland , Rita Floyd and Hans Kundnani
False solutions prevail over real ambition at COP26 Analysis COP26 in Glasgow started with a plethora of declarations. But in the end it failed to deliver on the real and immediate action needed to avoid climate catastrophe, and to address the demand for justice and equity for those most impacted by climate harms. By Erika Lennon , Sébastien Duyck and Nikki Reisch
CAP beyond the EU | Precision agriculture: for whom precisely? Analysis The development and diffusion of precision agriculture might speed up since fresh money could become available through eco-schemes under the new CAP Strategic Plans. How does the EU support precision agriculture and what does it mean from a global south perspective? This article looks at the case of Rwanda and suggests technological developers and policy makers to proceed with caution to avoid widening inequality between smallholders and commercial farms, privacy breaches or undesired data dependency on tech giants like Google. By Hans Wetzels
COP26 diary #4: A Global North greenwash festival? - Thoughts on communication around COP26 from a first-time attendee COP26 diary COPs are a time of a plethora of announcements, pledges and initiatives by countries, businesses and financial institutes. It is hard to keep up and even harder to distinguish between newsworthy reason for hope and old wine in new bottles. Lisa Tostado reports on the climate “communication nightmare” of welcoming progress while emphasizing the persistent astronomical gap to what would be Paris Agreement-compatible. By Lisa Tostado
Jutta Paulus on COP26: “For leading by example, we must achieve our European Green Deal goals” Interview Lisa Tostado interviewed Green MEP Jutta Paulus her about her expectations and initial assessment concerning this year’s COP26, as well as the on role of the EU and particularly Germany in international climate negotiations. By Lisa Tostado
COP26 diary #3: The most inclusive COP ever? - Thoughts on representation at COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary COP26 was supposed to be the “most inclusive COP ever”. Lisa Tostado reports on why the promised cannot be considered fulfilled and where inclusion and representation remain an issue to be addressed urgently. By Lisa Tostado
The tragic consequences of EU funding on the environment in Hungary Commentary To avoid further environmental damages due to the use of EU money, the European Commission should suspend funding to the Hungarian government. By András Lukács
COP26 diary #2: The heartbreak is hard to bear - Thoughts on climate justice at COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary Inequalities are striking in the climate crisis. Lisa Tostado unpacks them and reports on the action on payment of climate debt at the COP26 in Glasgow. By Lisa Tostado
Geopolitical stakes of COP26 in Glasgow Commentary Global climate policy is the subject of multiple announcements put to the test over the course of these two weeks of COP26. Between the countries that have established carbon neutrality targets for 2050 (the United States and the European Union) and those looking to 2060 or further instead (Russia, China, India), the major challenge lies not in the deadlines, but in the translation of these dramatic promises into concrete actions. By Nidhal Attia
COP26 diary #1: Carefully orchestrated procrastination? Thoughts on the beginning of COP from a first-time attendee COP26 diary Lisa Tostado unpacks some basics in the first report during her attendance at this year’s COP26 in Glasgow. By Lisa Tostado
Discourse matters: the net-zero agenda and Africa’s priorities Commentary Where in the global dialogue is the aspiration for adaptation, equitable climate finance and inclusivity? What practical actions will the global community take to address these cardinal objectives? For African countries - which have contributed least to climate change but remain most vulnerable to its impacts - these objectives are as important as net-zero ambitions. By Lily Odarno
Learning from the UK’s exposure to the global gas crisis Commentary The causes of the current global gas crisis are now well understood. Europe finds itself the convergence zone of two supply challenges, related to a shortfall of pipeline supplies and simultaneously an inability to attract deliveries of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Consequently, going into winter storage levels are low, and prices are extremely high. But the UK has been singled out as being more vulnerable than most, why is this so and what lessons can be learnt from the current situation? By Michael Bradshaw
EU non-compliance with the Paris Agreement Analysis The European Union has long sought to play a leadership role in the international climate change negotiations. For the time being, however, it is non-compliant with a procedural obligation under the Paris Agreement: to notify the UNFCCC secretariat of the individual emission levels allocated to each Member State. By Christoph Schwarte
10 things you need to know about hydrogen Listicle The EU and Germany aim to be climate neutral by 2050 and 2045, respectively. The commitment to climate neutrality means that zero-emission alternatives will replace emissions-intensive processes and products. One energy alternative is climate-friendly hydrogen. However, hydrogen is not an all-purpose miracle that solves everything at once. By Stefanie Groll
From the roads to the rails: European freight transport and green logistics European Mobility Atlas 2021 For about two decades, the logistics industry has become more serious about sustainability. Although a validated definition of “green logistics” does not yet exist, the reduction of CO2 emissions can be regarded as an important part of the concept. In freight transport, heavy goods vehicles on roads are by far the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, while rail is the smallest. Nevertheless, the shift from road to rail – a central target of EU transport policies – struggles to get off the ground. By Werner Balsen
Saving biodiversity Background With the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the global community wants to make a new attempt to halt the rapid and dramatic loss of ecosystems, species and genetic diversity, or biodiversity. By Lili Fuhr , Kristin Funke , Dr. Christine Chemnitz , Linda Schneider and Lisa Tostado
Italian CAP plan in progress: too little, too late? Analysis On 11-12 October 2021, EU agriculture ministers are invited to share their views on design and approval of the CAP Strategic Plan, with emphasis on transparency and inclusion. With no sense of irony, this meeting will be held behind closed doors. Meanwhile Italy still limps along with its ‘tavolo del partenariato” (consultation forum). While a wide range of stakeholders are putting proposals on the table, the agri-industrial lobby is “cooking” in the kitchen. By Matteo Metta
Not a moving target: the responsibility to respect human rights in the transport and logistics sector European Mobility Atlas 2021 Transport makes a significant contribution to global employment and provides economic opportunities for millions across the world, acting as a key enabler for trade, manufacturing and mobility. In Europe alone, the transport industry directly employs around 10 million people. However, the human costs of transport – both present and future – cannot be ignored. By Francesca Manta and Alice Pease
Quality schemes – Who benefits? Central America, coffee and the EU Analysis This analysis explores whether and how mutually recognised quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs are creating enhanced trade benefits for third countries’ producer groups in the frame of the Common Market Organisation and Association Agreements of the European Union. A case-study on coffee protected by designations of origin in Central America. By Melina A. Campos
Building blocks for a sustainable and resilient food system: the post-Covid opportunity for the European Union Commentary The build-up to the UN Food systems Summit 2021 has underlined why systems thinking is essential and action is required now, both concerning the ending of hunger and tackling the web of issues that contribute to sustainability. By Nora Hiller , Faustine Bas-Defossez and David Baldock
CO2 performance standards and alternative fuels infrastructure proposals: the right direction, but lacking short-term ambition Analysis The European Commission's Fit-for-55 package proposal to go to 100% zero emission car sales from 2035 shows a serious commitment for reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, and will put European industry in the driving seat to dominate the new global electric vehicle (EV) market. While this move could democratise the purchase of EVs, policy-makers need to take a small extra step to ensure early build up of EVs to drive cost reductions and fully guarantee that chargers are available in the right locations. By Alex Keynes
About soul and sovereignty: our reaction to Ursula von der Leyen’s 2021 State of the Union address Commentary In her 2021 State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen appealed to Europe’s soul, which, she said, has been tested to the core in times of multiple crises. The team of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union did its own soul-searching, pointing at the good, the not-so-good and the missing in von der Leyen’s speech. By Eva van de Rakt , Lisa Tostado , Martin Keim , Anna Schwarz , Zora Siebert and Joan Lanfranco
Politicians underestimate methane as a climate killer Analysis While the EU's Fit-for-55 Package includes many important files, the European Commission postponed legislation on methane a particularly potent greenhouse gas to December 2021. This article summarises the issues at stake and argues that without stringent regulation on this gas, the Fit-for-55 Package will fail to reach climate goals. By Lisa Tostado
The proposal for a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism fails the ambition and equity tests Analysis The proposal for a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is likely the most contentious element of the Fit for 55 package, with significant ramifications not only internally in the EU but beyond its borders. It is a long-discussed idea whose time has finally come as part of European Commission President von der Leyen’s European Green Deal grand bargain. By Tim Gore
The revision of the Energy Taxation Directive could underpin a fair and green tax reform in Europe Analysis Tax systems across the EU are currently neither fair nor green. The burden of taxation has been steadily shifting in recent decades from corporate profits and personal wealth to labour income, especially of lower-income earners, helping to drive growing inequality across the EU. And with men disproportionately represented among the EU’s wealthiest citizens, the system helps underpin gender inequality too. By Tim Gore
Meat Atlas 2021: Introduction Meat Atlas 2021 One of the key demands of Fridays for Future, the youth climate movement, is “Listen to science!” In the age of Covid-19, governments frequently consult scientists and adapt policies to their advice. Scientists have also been stressing for over a decade that a climate- and biodiversity-friendly diet contains less than half the amount of meat consumed in industrialized countries today. By Barbara Unmüßig , Olaf Bandt and Jagoda Munić
12 brief lessons about meat and the world Meat Atlas 2021 Main takeaways from the Meat Atlas 2021. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and Friends of the Earth Europe
Meat consumption: everyday food and luxury good Meat Atlas 2021 The global demand for meat continues to rise due to economic and population growth, but at a slower pace than 10 years ago. Poultry accounts for an increasingly large share of consumption. Large differences remain in consumption per capita between countries and among population groups. By Lisa Tostado
World trade: in lorries and ships Meat Atlas 2021 Trade in meat and live animals is relatively new and growing fast. Disease outbreaks, sanitary restrictions and trade policies can lead to big swings in trade flow. The big four players are China – which dominates import markets – as well as the USA, Brazil and the EU, which provide most exports. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz
Mercosur: trading away the environment Meat Atlas 2021 The Association Agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries raises concerns with regards to meat and feed, as well as the rainforest and the climate. But the EU is worried about cheap imports, and resistance is growing. Whether the deal will actually come into force is questionable. By Bettina Müller and Lia Polotzek
Production: problem foods and their producers Meat Atlas 2021 The world’s meat production has grown rapidly, fed by rising demand and made possible by technological advances in livestock farming. But this has had serious consequences for animal welfare and small-scale producers. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz
Abattoirs: chopping but not changing Meat Atlas 2021 Covid outbreaks in abattoirs and processing plants are just the latest in a long list of problems in the meat industry. Low wages, hard work, and precarious employment are the price that workers pay to supply us with cheap meat. The industry is attempting to dodge its responsibility to provide decent conditions for its staff. By Dr. Peter Birke
Meat waste: a lot less than the whole fog Meat Atlas 2021 The meat industry used to be famous for using “everything about the hog except the squeal”. But a large proportion of the livestock raised for food do not end up as food. Many die, or are killed, before they reach the slaughterhouse, and even more meat is wasted between the factory and the plate. By Dr. Jonas Luckmann
Land conflicts: cutting down forests, carving up pastures Meat Atlas 2021 In South America, natural vegetation is being turned into pastureland and monocultures to support an unsustainable form of livestock production. In Africa and Asia, on the other hand, a sustainable form of livestock raising is losing ground to industrialized agriculture. Traditional local communities are the losers. By Thomas Fatheuer
Companies: dominating the market from farm to display case Meat Atlas 2021 Global meat companies play a major role in determining how meat and feed are produced, transported and traded. Food is big business: the 100 largest food and beverage firms around the world include 10 main meat producers and processors. By Shefali Sharma
Finance: big bucks for big firms Meat Atlas 2021 Big Meat attracts big money. Both private and public investors pour money into meat and dairy corporations, further boosting their market power and fuelling yet more consolidation in an already concentrated industry. The environmental and social damage caused by the industry is largely overlooked. By Mia Watanabe
Feed: soy, forest, and savanna Meat Atlas 2021 More than a third of all crops worldwide end up in the stomachs of livestock. That includes one billion tonnes a year of soybeans and maize alone. The feed and livestock industries want to increase that even further. By Silvie Lang
Climate: a lighter hoofprint Meat Atlas 2021 Livestock’s share of global greenhouse gas emissions is understated. The climate footprint of the animals and the feed they need is significant. There are ways to change that. By Shefali Sharma
Water: thirsty animals, thirsty crops Meat Atlas 2021 All animal products have a water footprint: the amount of water needed to produce them. It is not just the total amount that is important, but the types of water that are needed. There is enough “green” water. But the volumes of “blue” and “grey” water should be kept low. By Heike Holdinghausen
Pesticides: banned by Brussels, allowed in the Amazon Meat Atlas 2021 Pesticide applications are on the rise across the globe. Some of the most dangerous substances have been banned in the European Union, but are still being used on a large scale in other parts of the world. Many are intended for the cultivation of soybean and maize, which are destined mainly for use as livestock feed. By Carla Hoinkes
Fertilizers: too much of a good thing Meat Atlas 2021 Nitrogen pollution from livestock manure is an increasing problem in many parts of the world. Countries in the European Union have lots of ideas on how to reduce such contamination of their environments. One approach is through closer monitoring of industrial livestock producers and restricting the amount of manure slurry that crop farmers are allowed to apply. By Dr. Thorsten Reinsch
Rewetting: give peat a chance Meat Atlas 2021 Across the globe, peatlands are being drained for farming and raising livestock. But dried-out peat emits huge amounts of greenhouse gases. Agricultural policy should initiate the transformation to the climate-friendly use of these areas. By Dr. Sabine Wichmann
Antibiotics: useless medicines Meat Atlas 2021 Antibiotics help to treat many diseases. The big problem: in both humans and animals, pathogens can develop antibiotic resistance – a fatal danger. And in industrial livestock production, these drugs are still not being used carefully enough. By Reinhild Benning
Pandemics: dangerous contacts Meat Atlas 2021 Livestock production and meat consumption stimulate outbreaks of diseases that can be transmitted from wild animals to humans. Such zoonoses can have catastrophic consequences – as Covid-19 has shown. By Inka Dewitz and Dr. Christine Chemnitz
Pastoralism: bounty from a barren land Meat Atlas 2021 Mobile herders move with their herds or flocks in the remotest of pastures. This form of animal production, known as pastoralism, is economically important and climate-friendly, but it is under severe threat. By Ilse Köhler-Rollefson
Pastoralism in India: rangeland, not wasteland Meat Atlas 2021 India is the world’s largest exporter of buffalo, sheep and goat meat. Remarkably, the majority of this output is produced in traditional agropastoral systems. By Ilse Köhler-Rollefson and Kamal Kishore
Active state: the political economy of transforming the meat system Meat Atlas 2021 Representative surveys in various countries have found a surprising amount of public support for reduced consumption of meat. Policymakers must find the right package and sequence of measures to stimulate the transition to a more sustainable future. By Dr. Lukas Paul Fesenfeld
The European Union: common livestock policy Meat Atlas 2021 Intensive livestock production creates environmental and animal welfare problems. Reforms currently being considered to the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy do not go nearly far enough to resolve these. But improvements can be made even within the current system. By Prof. Dr. Harald Grethe
Label: three stars for a better life Meat Atlas 2021 Buy meat from a supermarket, and you can probably choose between organic and non-organic. But with the non-organic products, you have no way of telling whether the animal was treated well, or was stuck in a pen with little room to move. Calls are growing for meat labels that show the conditions under which the animals are raised. By Katrin Wenz
EU strategies: a good start, but could try harder Meat Atlas 2021 As part of its Green Deal, the European Commission has proposed a “Farm to Fork Strategy”. This is the EU’s most coherent attempt yet to respond to the fundamental challenges plaguing the food system. But much will depend on converting highgrand-sounding words into actual policies. By Stanka Becheva and Lisa Tostado
Lab meat: cellstock vs livestock Meat Atlas 2021 Lab-grown meat is a disruptive innovation that could help resolve sustainability and health issues related to livestock, as well as reducing the numbers of animals farmed. But the sustainability gains do not yet match expectations. By Francesco Ajena and Philip Howard
Insects as food: snacking on silkworms, lunching on locusts Meat Atlas 2021 Adding insects to our menus could help overcome the world’s food-supply problems. But the industrial production of insects is controversial: would it be useful or dangerous? By Hanni Rützler
Meat substitutes: a new sector emerges Meat Atlas 2021 Vegan and vegetarian alternatives to meat are gaining popularity fast – making them tastier for big firms, too. Competition is likely to flare up around in-vitro meat: start-ups developing lab-grown products are sprouting everywhere. By Stephanie Wunder
Activism: pressure from below Meat Atlas 2021 Civil society is a sometimes underestimated stakeholder in the food system. Supporting sustainable production and criticizing industrialized agriculture, it influences public opinion and habits and demands better policies and international solidarity. And it can hold governments and companies accountable for their actions, while offering solutions. By Stanka Becheva
Survey on youth: changing habits Meat Atlas 2021 Young people in Germany – the “Fridays for Future generation” – eat less meat than their elders. Their attitudes and habits are likely to steer food consumption and policy in the coming decades. Results of a representative survey. By Prof. Dr. Achim Spiller , Dr. Anke Zühlsdorf , Dr. Kristin Jürkenbeck and Dr. Maureen Schulze
Meat Atlas 2021 - Dissemination package Meat Atlas 2021 Dissemination package and social media visuals for the Meat Atlas 2021.
European Green Deal: Integrate gender and intersectional approach into green budgeting and taxation Report chapter Green budgets refer to tools that aim to achieve environmental and climate objectives by analysing the environmental impacts of budgetary and fiscal policy choices. Budgeting can therefore be a tool to mainstream gender equality and environmental objectives at the same time. While taxation can also enhance gender equality and incentivise a green transition, this chapter focuses on the budget side due to the revenue structure of the European Union (EU), in the context of the European Green Deal, the EU Budget 2021-2027 and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. By Lisa Tostado and Katy Wiese
“All aboard!” E-Ferry Ellen and the future of electric shipping Interview Electrifying European transport is a clear-cut way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Denmark, the pioneering electric car ferry “Ellen” connects the port of Fynshav and the island of Ærø. European Mobility Atlas 2021 Chief Executive Editor Philipp Cerny interviewed Halfdan Abrahamsen from the Municipality of Ærø’s Energy and Environment Office. By Philipp Cerny
The European Green Deal's fitness test – Will the EU’s Fit-for-55 package ensure reaching the climate goal? Analysis On 14 July 2021, the European Commission will present its proposals for implementing the EU Climate Law - the so-called “Fit-for-55” package. This will be the starting signal for one of the most important EU debates of the next years: how can the EU reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and how can it become climate neutral by 2050? By Lisa Tostado and Martin Keim
10 questions about night trains that you always wanted, but never dared, to ask Q&A Night trains are on the rise again. This year, 2021, marks the European Year of Rail and the resurrection of important new night train connections, combined with fresh railway market entrants. Read on to learn more about this promising means of transportation. By Philipp Cerny
CAP Strategic Plans: Germany Taking Steps in the Right Direction? Analysis In March 2021, the German Agriculture Ministers’ Conference and the Federal Ministry for Food and Agriculture agreed on important cornerstones for the country’s CAP Strategic Plan. While the resolutions have opened the door for a more ambitious CAP in Germany, it remains to be seen whether the federal and state governments will seize this opportunity when they decide on details still to be negotiated. By Prof. Sebastian Lakner
35 years after Chernobyl: “The experience of uncontrollability must be part of our debate” Interview 35 years on from the disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, our director Eva van de Rakt was in conversation with the Austrian Federal Minister for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology, Leonore Gewessler, and former Member of the European Parliament Rebecca Harms on the role, risks and dangers of nuclear power in Europe. By Eva van de Rakt
The 7 reasons why nuclear energy is not the answer to solve climate change Analysis New nuclear power costs about 5 times more than onshore wind power per kWh. Nuclear takes 5 to 17 years longer between planning and operation and produces on average 23 times the emissions per unit electricity generated. In addition, it creates risk and cost associated with weapons proliferation, meltdown, mining lung cancer, and waste risks. Clean, renewables avoid all such risks. By Mark Z. Jacobson
Russian nuclear power for the whole world – except Russia? Background In Russia, atomic energy is completely state-owned and paid for out of taxpayers’ money. The state corporation “Rosatom” comprises civilian and military nuclear technology companies. It is the world’s largest producer of nuclear power plants (NPPs) and its activities extend more to projects in other countries than in Russia itself. Thanks to large capacities for uranium enrichment, which remained in Russian hands after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Rosatom currently controls 17% of world production of nuclear fuels. By Vladimir Slivyak
Mycle Schneider: "Every euro invested in nuclear power makes the climate crisis worse" Interview Can nuclear energy help us meet climate goals? Mycle Schneider, editor of the annual World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR), which assesses the status and trends of the global nuclear power industry, says no. Interview courtesy of DW. By Gero Rueter
Nuclear Power in the European Union Analysis The issue of nuclear power has been with the European Union since the very beginning of the nuclear age. Where are operating nuclear power plants in the world? Who is building new reactors? What happened in the European region after Chernobyl and the fall of the Berlin Wall? By Mycle Schneider
The Czech Nuclear Republic Commentary While many European countries are phasing out nuclear energy, either for political or economic reasons, Czechia is hoping to go in the opposite direction. Nuclear reactors are proclaimed – and also perceived by much of society – to be a clean and safe source of energy. How did this come about? By Edvard Sequens and Žaneta Gregorová
Ukraine’s nuclear impasse Analysis What is the problem within the construction of units 3 and 4 of Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine? To understand the situation around this it is necessary to have clear picture of Ukrainian nuclear sector in general. By Oleksandra Zaika
Nuclear weather in France: no clouds in sight Commentary Thirty-five years ago, a few days after the Chernobyl disaster, authorities throughout Europe alerted the population to the radioactive cloud. All of them? No. In France, where more than thirty nuclear reactors were already in operation, the authorities waited several weeks before acknowledging that the cloud had passed over the country. By Jules Hebert
Hungary’s Paks 2 nuclear plant project: Russia’s controversial test laboratory Commentary The Chernobyl disaster is the origin and the starting point for many green and anti-nuclear activists of my generation in Hungary. What are the dilemmas and how does the public see nuclear energy in Hungary on the 35th anniversary of Chernobyl and the 10th of the Fukushima disaster? By Benedek Jávor
The new nuclear power plant in Belarus and reminders of Chernobyl Analysis For the first 29 years of the country’s independence, nuclear power was not used in Belarus. It was not until 7 November 2020, the anniversary of the October Revolution, that the first nuclear power plant was inaugurated in Ostrovets, close to the border with Lithuania. By Hanna Valynets
Fukushima: The Nuclear Crisis Is Ongoing, Yet It’s Not Hopeless Commentary In former evacuation zones of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, although the government of Japan pronounced it safe to resume normal life, some returnees found such a life elusive. To make life possible on their once-abandoned land, they decided to tackle radiation in their own ways. By Dr. Tam Man-kei
The role of nuclear energy in the EU’s Sustainable Taxonomy Regulation Analysis The EU’s Sustainable Taxonomy Regulation - the list of green activities contributing to the green transition - is currently being discussed. The political debate is now focusing on two types of energy that were at first excluded: nuclear energy and fossil gas. How might these discussions undermine the taxonomy that is potentially a central tool to enhance investments in the green transition and why should they be banished from this instrument? By Zélie Victor
Nuclear Power Trend in Southeast Asia and Its Contested Discourses on Climate Change Analysis Currently, there is no nuclear power station that operating commercial electricity in Southeast Asian countries. However, pro-nuclear comes up with many reasons aiming to materialize the nuclear power which ranging from growing of domestic power demand to boost economic activities, reducing the electricity cost – in the case of the Philippines, to producing no Green House Gases emission, in particularly CO2. By Tipakson Manpati
Chernobyl Commentary I visited Chernobyl for the first time two and a half years after nuclear disaster. Over the decades, during which time I returned to the Exclusion Zone at least every ten years, I have come to understand that a nuclear disaster has no ‘afterwards’. The consequences of the biggest nuclear incident to date are still affecting many people of the former Soviet Union, having destroyed their future. By Rebecca Harms
Chernobyl 35 years on –the “Polish puzzle” Commentary It was 28th April 1986, early morning in Poland. The radiation monitoring station in Mikołajki, Mazury area (north-eastern region of Poland) showed that the radioactivity in the air was 550,000 times higher than the day before. The radioactive cloud from Chernobyl had travelled to Poland. The story of the catastrophe began here. By Beata Cymerman
Walking in London: people, space and governance European Mobility Atlas 2021 Walking is vital for liveable cities and a basic right for any city dweller. However, it has long been under-represented in practice and research, something London is planning to overcome. England’s capital intends to build on its prior success in improving walkability, through the elements of shaping individual behaviour, space inequalities and governance. By Alexandra Gomes
What to expect from carbon pricing – and what not Commentary Putting a price on CO2 emissions is necessary for climate protection, and applying the polluter-pays principle is an important step toward climate justice. As long as follow-up costs are not taken into account, climate protection will not have sufficient weight in investment decisions. By Stefanie Groll
Women on the Move: Sustainable Mobility and Gender European Mobility Atlas 2021 Mobility is not gender neutral. This not only pertains to individual mobility, but also to the transport and planning sectors themselves, which are heavily dominated by men. Social stereotypes and role distribution within a predominantly male workforce, as well as care work mostly carried out by females, do the rest to create an environment that is aligned with male needs. By Katja Diehl and Philipp Cerny
The Myth of Good Plastic Essay Plastic is a material that used to be a symbol of progress and modernity. Now it represents an industry that subordinates everything to profit, even if the world is ruined in the process. By Barbara Unmüßig
Green hydrogen from Morocco – no magic bullet for Europe’s climate neutrality Analysis There are great hopes pinned to the Moroccan energy transition – not just in the North African kingdom itself, but also in Europe and Germany. By Bauke Baumann
European Mobility Atlas 2021 - Preface European Mobility Atlas 2021 Europe is the continent where multiple forms of transportation have been invented or brought to technological maturity. The free movement of persons has made Europe grow together and led to an ever-stronger sense of cohesion. Cross-border mobility is a prerequisite for a united EU and the experience of inter-connectedness on all levels. By Dr. Ellen Ueberschär and Eva van de Rakt
12 Brief Lessons on Mobility in Europe European Mobility Atlas 2021 The European Mobility Atlas 2021 analyses the key facts and figures about transport and mobility in Europe, contributing to the efforts towards sustainable and just mobility in the European Union. The main takeaways from the Atlas are summarised in these 12 brief lessons. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union
History: A Struggle for Directions European Mobility Atlas 2021 It took until the late 1980s to make transport part of EU policy. Since then, steps have been taken towards a more ambitious transport policy. Reluctance in EU Member States to enforce the rules keeps being the biggest obstacle. By Paul Beeckmans
Employment: Fear of Falling by the Wayside European Mobility Atlas 2021 Liberalisation and social harmonisation have barely gone hand in hand in the transport sector. Some EU rules exist, but without proper enforcement, the current employment situation is often unsatisfactory. By Natalia Walczak
Aviation: Flying Green - A Nice Dream European Mobility Atlas 2021 Suddenly, the skies were blue. The Covid-19 lockdown grounded the majority of flights, and analysts say that it could take years for aviation to get back to normal. By Magdalena Heuwieser
The Automotive Sector: The Key Transformation of an Industry European Mobility Atlas 2021 For more than 100 years, the automotive industry has relied on cars with internal combustion engines. Today, transformation is irrevocable. The Covid-19 pandemic makes it a truly Herculean task. By Roderick Kefferpütz
Rail: The Challenges of a Single European Railway Area European Mobility Atlas 2021 European transport infrastructure reflects the complexity of Europe’s cross-border management tasks and its historic path dependency. Railway infrastructure is a prominent example of this. By Philipp Cerny
Cross-Border Mobility: Closing the Gaps European Mobility Atlas 2021 A well-connected cross-border railway system is the backbone of European transnational mobility. Yet many cross-border points still look like a patchwork reflecting myriad different national systems. By Constantin Lehnert
Shipping: Setting Sail - Challenges for Sea Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Maritime transport is the most important, most efficient, but also dirtiest way of shipping goods. Not covered by the Paris Agreement, the industry is trying to set guidelines for a more environment-friendly maritime transport. By Nikolaos Sifakis and Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos
Tourism: Travelling Sustainably or With the Crowd European Mobility Atlas 2021 Tourism is a major economic sector in Europe. But its negative impacts on the environment and local communities raise concerns. Sustainable travel is growing, yet Covid-19 could change everything. By Ed Lancaster
Bicycle Industry: Growing at Speed European Mobility Atlas 2021 Unlike many industries, the manufacture of bicycles keeps on growing. This is mainly driven by the sale of e-bikes. The ever-increasing demand for them seems to be helping the industry to recover rapidly from the impact of Covid-19. By Anna-Lena Scherer
Cargo Bikes: Sustainable and Resilient Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Cargo bikes play a big role in avoiding motorised transport of goods. Many European cities operate successful cargo bike subsidy schemes. Commercial use, private ownership, sharing— all forms of cargo bike use are on the rise. By Prof. Dr. Sophia Becker and Arne Behrensen
Cycling Copenhagen: The Making of a Bike-Friendly City European Mobility Atlas 2021 Providing people with the options to safely walk, bike or use public transportation is paramount not only in creating a green and sustainable city, but also a liveable, people-friendly city. By Marianne Weinreich
Road Safety: Wanted - Strategies to Protect the Weakest European Mobility Atlas 2021 Cyclists and pedestrians run a high risk of being killed in road traffic. At national and EU levels, a variety of initiatives aims to protect them better. However, more is needed to ensure effective pedestrian and cyclist safety. By Ellen Townsend and Dudley Curtis
Public and Intermodal Transport: Unite Rural and Urban Areas European Mobility Atlas 2021 The ‘last mile’ is often a key problem in public transport. Smartly planned intermodal intersections and digitalisation offer a range of possibilities to close that gap in the transportation chain—even with solutions for an individual mobility. By Alexandra Medwedeff
The Costs of Transport European Mobility Atlas 2021 Inefficiencies in the transport system are caused by false prices. A high amount of costs is passed from the polluter to the general public. This ‘externalisation’ prevents fair competition in transport and must be changed. By Dr. Thilo Becker
Drive Technology: Charging Ahead European Mobility Atlas 2021 The path going forward is clear: for road vehicles, electricity and alternative fuels will soon replace petrol and diesel. The climate protection potential of this move is high, but some problems still need to be solved along the way. By Stefanie Groll and Dr. Christine Wörlen
Dieselgate: The Scandal has Not Been Solved European Mobility Atlas 2021 Detected five years ago, ‘Dieselgate’ remains partly unsolved, although national governments and the European Commission have offered a wide range of responses. Consumers criticise the scandal-handling by car manufacturers. By Jens Müller
The Impact of Covid-19: Shaken and Shifted European Mobility Atlas 2021 Europe and the world have been hit by transnational crises before the Covid-19 pandemic. And mostly all of them had a severe impact on mobility and transport. By Philipp Cerny and Martin Keim
End-Of-Life Vehicles: Final Destination European Mobility Atlas 2021 Increasing mobility and trade as well as the shortening of a vehicle's average life have led to a growing number of vehicles that have reached the end of their useful life in Europe. By Lisa Tostado
The Future of Mobility: On the Road to Integrated Services European Mobility Atlas 2021 Digitalisation has already changed urban micro-mobility. The next step is the development of a single app for all mobility services. By Grégory Merly
European Mobility Atlas 2021 - Text and graphics license terms European Mobility Atlas 2021 All text and graphics of the European Mobility Atlas 2021 are published under a Creative Commons License. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union
The EU's Common Agricultural Policy after 2020: high ambition, low reform! Commentary The European Commission believed that the CAP reform was potentially compatible with the EU Green Deal. As things turn out, in practice, it is not. By Matteo Metta
CAP Beyond the EU: The Case of Honduran Banana Supply Chains Article The EU Common Market Organisation (CMO) and its import/export licences are intertwined with trade power concentration in multinational exporters, EU supermarket price pressure on banana producers, and the impact on labour rights in Central America. Deeper impact assessments should be made in Central America countries before signing Association Agreements with the EU. By Melina A. Campos
Will the CAP Post 2020 be Fairer – and What Does That Mean? Article The post 2020 reform promised to deliver a fairer CAP: better targeting and distribution of resources. One month before the final plenary vote in the European Parliament and trilogue negotiations with the Council, the proposal does not seem to go towards its expected direction. By Matteo Metta
After Ursula von der Leyen’s ambitious first State of the Union address: It’s time for EU action! Commentary European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s first State of the Union speech showed an ambitious and a strategic approach to the many crises hitting Europe and the world. However, words are not enough. They must be backed up by actions and coherent policy measures. By Eva van de Rakt , Lisa Tostado , Martin Keim , Zora Siebert , Anna Schwarz and Joan Lanfranco
“All is not yet lost!” – A contemporary look at Amazonia Commentary The rain forest is going up in smoke – this is the impression given by the images that have been circling the globe for years. But the digital age means that they now travel faster than ever. There are fires in the Arctic, forests burning in Canada, Siberia, South East Asia and now in Amazonia. It is a cause for concern and incomprehension, as most people are now aware of the importance of the largest tropical forest on earth in climate change and protecting biodiversity. By Barbara Unmüßig
How do we define Amazonia? Commentary Amazonia means many things to different people. Below is an overview of what Amazonia is, who lives here and why such large areas of it are being slashed and burned. By Thomas Fatheuer
Key Green Ideas for the Future of Europe Policy recommendations In the context of the Covid-19 crisis, the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union faces major challenges. Considering that the conditions and circumstances will constantly change, and that the EU will face increasing uncertainty and unpredictability, we need to reflect on how it should respond to vital challenges in the long term. By Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union
Southeast Asia: Going Greener, Post-COVID-19? Article Green recovery. Social protection. Smart containment. Decarbonisation. Putting progress in climate action at par with measuring GDP. Creative capacity. These phrases have been running through conversations these days around changing Southeast Asia's template for development in the post-COVID era. By Johanna Son
The Impact of COVID-19 on Small-Scale Farmers in Nigeria Interview Mary Afan, president of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON), talked to hbs about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale farmers, government’s response and what could be done to help them weather the crisis.
CAP & the Global South: National Strategic Plans – a Step Backwards? Article Slowly the CAP has become less focused on only promoting exports and more on sustainable development. But that progress might be undone once member states start formulating their own agricultural policy objectives. By Hans Wetzels
CAP Strategic Plans on Climate, Environment – Ever Decreasing Circles Article The latest effort at CAP reform from the Commission was supposed to focus on a new delivery model, more environmental ambition, and a performance and monitoring evaluation framework. As the Croatian presidency ends, little progress has been made. By Matteo Metta
Climate and environmentally ambitious CAP Strategic Plans: Based on what exactly? Article The concept of climate and environmental ambition of the future CAP Strategic Plans is multidimensional, yet clear criteria for guiding a transparent appraisal and approval process are still missing. By Matteo Metta
Flawed but vital, “Planet of the Humans” poses several inconvenient questions Review Michael Moore and Jeff Gibbs new movie, Planet of the Humans (POTH) serves to uncomfortably remind viewers that in many ways, despite our increased awareness of the growing biodiversity and climate crises, often our “environmental” and “sustainable” solutions, such as “natural” fossil gas, biomass and biofuels, have proven as bad or worse than the coal and petroleum they were intended to replace. By L. Michael Buchsbaum
Red Alarm: Europe’s Next Drought is Already Upon Us Analysis In much of Europe, this April is proving one of the driest in history. According to climate scientists, this could be the new normal as global warming enhances the frequency of severe droughts. Farmers though could do more to secure stable harvests: by growing more diverse crops. By Paul Hockenos
How Transparent and Inclusive is the Design Process of the National CAP Strategic Plans? Article After the first steps made towards designing the National CAP Strategic Plans, this article analyses transparency and stakeholder inclusivity in six selected Member States: France, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Poland. By Matteo Metta
A turning point for Ukraine: full-scale energy transition or re-established gas dependency? Background For the Ukrainian energy sector, the beginning of the year was marked by the “Ukrainian Green Deal” proposal developed by the Ministry of energy and environmental protection. But when it comes to near-term plans, further investments of public funds in nuclear and gas projects are still being considered by the government. By Oleh Rybachuk and Kostiantyn Krynytskyi
Not So Green, Not So Clean: Are Green Technologies Silencing Local Communities? Background Norway is considered one of the ‘greenest’ countries on the planet but recently the country has come under fire for approving a copper mine in the Arctic described as the “most environmentally damaging project in the country's history”. This article aims to explore how green technology is still being recapitulated by capitalism and ‘business as usual' and uses a gender lens to explore the relationship of nature, green technologies and capitalism. By Mavra Bari
Manipulating Mother Nature: The gendered antagonism of geoengineering Background Mother Nature is once again the subject of the male gaze but this time the impact may be even more oppressive. This article expands the feminist concept of ‘male gaze’ towards nature and critiques geoengineering as being an inherently male/masculine technology that is a product of and a means to further capitalistic agenda. By Mavra Bari
[COP25] A Process on the Brink of Collapse Confronts a World on the Move Analysis The governments gathered in Madrid failed to embrace the urgent need for progress towards climate justice and higher ambitions. A broad analysis of the global climate negotiations addressing various angles: from fossil fuels, ecosystems and biodiversity, climate finance and justice, gender and indigenous people's rights, to emissions trading and Latin America. By Sébastien Duyck and Erika Lennon
[COP25] Why the failure of the climate negotiations in Madrid could be a good thing Commentary The climate conference in Madrid had to be extended longer than any climate conference to date. Negotiations lasted until Sunday morning. And yet only a weak final document was agreed which postponed almost all essential questions until next year. A failure, even a catastrophe for the efforts to save the planet? Was this failure nonetheless even a good thing in the end? Focus on emissions trading. By Jörg Haas
Social unrest in Chile and its effects on the climate agenda and COP25 Analysis Hosting COP 25 in Chile would have been an excellent chance to visualize the continent’s environmental problems and improve the space for negotiations. Now, Latin American civil society is making an effort to make their voices heard in Madrid. By Ingrid Wehr , Sebastián Aynzúa and Javiera Valencia
Amid Climate Crisis, Will Governments Deliver Ambitious Climate Action in Madrid? Background Against the backdrop of increasing climate destruction and mass mobilizations calling for climate leadership, COP-25 must deliver urgent, rights-based climate action. By Erika Lennon and Sébastien Duyck
High Expectations from ‘Nature Based Solutions’ during the Climate Action Summit Background Peter Riggs, from the international network Climate, Land, Ambition, and Rights Alliance (CLARA) tells how to evaluate new commitments from countries, and greater overall ambition in achieving under-two-degree warming pathways. By Peter Riggs
Land Degradation Neutrality Fund Article The fund is supposed to contribute to sustainable land use but is run by a financial asset company and poses substantial risks for peasant farmers. By Jutta Kill
The IPCC Special Report on Land: We have to act now Analysis On August 8th 2019, the International Panel on Climate Change released its special report on climate change and land. Environmental expert Peg Putt provides an analysis of the report's findings. By Peg Putt
Agriculture Atlas: Graphics and license terms Atlas All graphs of the Agriculture Atlas are published under a Creative Commons License CC BY 4.0. and can be used and published under these conditions. You can find all downloads available in formats jpg, png and pdf.
Agriculture Atlas 2019 - Facts and Figures on EU Farming Policy Press release Europe needs a new political majority for a fundamental reform of the EU’s damaging and inequitable farming subsidies to stand a chance of saving nature, preventing the worst effects of climate change and reviving small farms and our rural regions.
Climate change and human rights – Can the courts fix it? Overview Climate litigation is on the rise - in Germany, in Europe and worldwide. What role can courts play in the fight against climate change? This article shows the link between human rights and climate change, its implications, and introduces some of the cases. By Anne Kling
Frequently Asked Questions on 1.5°C and Geoengineering What's the difference between 1.5°C and 2°C? What are "negative emissions"? What's the problem with geoengineering? Why and how is the Heinrich Böll Foundation working on the topic of geoengineering and the 1.5°C limit? Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the 1,5°C target and the topic of geoengineering.
Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik
Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik
Climate policy together or not at all Transatlatic Media Fellowship The dispute between the supporters of globalisation and the defenders of national sovereignty rages around the world. This also concerns climate policy. By Wojciech Jakóbik
[COP24] Great expectations, low execution: The Katowice climate change conference COP 24 Assessement The Katowice climate package brings minor progress, but COP 24 failed to deliver on the most fundamental issues such as raising ambition of national contributions, implementing human rights, and ensuring support for developing countries. By Don Lehr and Liane Schalatek
Unpacking COP24 and its implications for Southeast Asia Article This year’s United Nations climate conference wrapped up this month in Katowice, Poland with just enough progress to make the Paris Agreement operational. Yet too few countries stepped up in response to a year of extremes and a slew of reports, all highlighting the widening gap between what science demands and what is actually being acted upon. By Denise Fontanilla
EU’s Role in speeding up energy transition in the Western Balkans and Ukraine Documentation Obviously, the destiny of sustainable transition of Western Balkan and Eastern European economies is above all in control of the respective countries themselves. Still, the EU is in a decisive position to create conditions for a dynamic of change and a successful modernisation. By Robert Sperfeld
[COP24] What's at stake for COP 24? Briefing The Katowice UN Climate Change Conference will take place in Katowice from the 3rd till the 14th of December 2018. By Don Lehr
IPCC Special Report on 1.5: Limiting Global Warming without Temperature "Overshoot" Analysis The IPCC Special Report on 1.5 opts for a rigorous interpretation of the 1.5 limit on global warming. It has good reasons to do so: "Overshooting" that target risks irreversible impacts and damage for societies and ecosystems, and increases reliance on unproven, high-risk geoengineering technologies. By Linda Schneider
On Land Grabbing and Cross-border Investment: Case of Cambodian Migrant Workers in Thailand from a Gender-lens Analysis Land grabbing in Southeast Asia continues to be an issue of concern. The population in the region largely live in rural areas and make their living by depending on natural resources such as land and water. This article is based on a research in Cambodia and discusses key findings by using gender lens to highlight changes occurred on various levels in the community. By Premrudee Daoroung
[COP23] The Fiji UN Climate Summit 2017, COP23: what is at stake in Bonn? Analysis The UN climate summit COP 23 will convene from 6 to 17 November 2017 in Bonn, Germany, under the presidency of the government of Fiji. This article provides an overview of key issues at stake and a summary of our expectations for the COP 23. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek and Don Lehr
Agricultural traders' second harvest Four Western corporations dominate the global trade of agricultural products. Now a Chinese firm has joined them. By Roman Herre
Protests, boycotts and resistance In many countries, people are resisting agrarian and trade policies that boost the power of the multinationals. Individual companies also come in for criticism. By Reinhild Benning
Alternatives: Agroecology and community supported agriculture Article Agroecology is a successful concept which promotes farming methods that are attuned to local ecosystems. It is already used for growing rice worldwide. By Jan Urhahn and Christine Pohl
Monsanto and Co: From seven to four – growing by shrinking Mergers galore: Bayer wants to buy Monsanto and become the world’s largest producer of seeds and agrochemicals. All top rivaling companies are pairing up. By Heike Moldenhauer and Saskia Hirtz
Crop genetics: Juggling genes In the coming years, seed companies plan to use genome editing to produce crops with new characteristics – and market them without having to state that they are "genetically modified". By Jim Thomas
Sowing the seeds of an equitable world The reclamation of seed as a common good has begun. Following the concept of open source, new approaches evolve that result in the cultivation of a large number of species and varieties. By Barbara Unmüßig
Bringing Europe Closer to its Citizens - a Regional Approach to Achieving a European Renewable Energy Union The idea of regional cooperation can fill the ambition gap between national energy strategies and a standardized EU-wide approach. By Dr. Radostina Primova , Anna Leidreiter and Maren Preuss
Trash in the Surf, Poison in the Sea The mounds of garbage on some coasts pose clearly visible problems. Other types of pollution are less visible – but every bit as serious.
Ocean Governance: Who Owns the Ocean? For thousands of years people have taken to the sea to fish and trade. Wars have been fought as rival rulers claimed the rights to the sea and its exploitation. Those conflicts have continued to this day.
Global Hunger For Natural Resources Unseen treasures with mysterious names beckon from the depths of the ocean: manganese nodules, cobalt crusts, black smokers. Hidden within them are rich concentrations of valuable metals.
Coasts: Life in the Danger Zone Flooding, erosion, sinking: our coasts are under ever-increasing pressure. People who live in coastal regions are especially endangered – and there are an ever-increasing number of them.
Fish – almost out of stock? Fish is a cornerstone of global food security. This global dependence on fish is actually the greatest threat to our fish populations. Many are overfished, and the number is rising.
World Trade and Price Wars Coffee, bananas, smartphones, automobiles: cargo ships transport goods around the world. 90 percent of global trade is seaborne. Who does what – and who pays for it all?
Biodiversity: The Danger of Declining Diversity Ocean Atlas 2017 Gourmets visiting Sylt, Germany’s idyllic North Sea vacation destination, can choose between fresh Pacific oysters and native blue mussels. But what seems like fine dining is actually a cautionary tale as the foreign oysters threaten to overrun the native mussels.
Destination: Ocean Cruise ships carrying 4,000 travelers, all-inclusive beachfront resorts – increasing global tourism places an ever-greater strain on the ocean and coastal populations.
Downloads of the Ocean Atlas All graphs of the Ocean Atlas are published under a Creative Commons License CC BY SA 4.0. and can be continued to be used, processed and published under these conditions. You can find all downloads available in various formats (png, pdf) here.
Aquaculture: Are Fish Farms the Future? Aquaculture is booming – in 2014 nearly every second fish consumed by people came from a fish farm. The ecological and social problems caused by this aquatic stockbreeding are immense.
Energy From the Ocean: Where Does the Future Lie? Countries are turning their attention to the ocean in order to ensure that future demands for energy and raw materials can be met. Which direction will they take? What are the opportunities and risks? An overview.
The World Must Act Together: Towards A New Governance of the Ocean Nearly half the Earth is covered by areas of the ocean that lie beyond national jurisdictions. Considering the importance of the oceans for our food supplies, preventing climate change, and preserving biodiversity, this is irresponsible. Change is needed, urgently.
The Experts Behind the Ocean Atlas Many experts contributed their expertise to the Ocean Atlas, particularly scientists working together at the University of Kiel’s Future Ocean Cluster of Excellence to research the development of our oceans. Here's the who is who.
Warming Waters and Rising Risks The ocean is far, far away from Springdale, Arkansas. And yet the city is feeling the effects of the rising sea level. Seeking safety, 10,000 inhabitants of the Marshall Islands have made the city their new home.
How the Ocean Slows Climate Change Without the ocean, climate change would proceed far more quickly. The massive volumes of water in the seas greatly influence the changes occurring in our atmosphere.
The Microplastic Problem Beaches littered with plastic garbage, seabirds strangled by bits of plastic – these images are ubiquitous today. Yet we also see photos of people cleaning beaches and hear about plans for purifying the ocean. Are things actually improving?
A Look Into the Past: Exploitation and Protected Areas The plants and animals that currently live in the “wilderness” of the ocean or in marine protected areas are just a fraction of what once thrived in the seas. To understand what we’ve lost and what we might be able to recover, we need to know what used to be.
Fertilizer for the Dead Zones Each summer, a 20,000-square-kilometer dead zone forms in the Gulf of Mexico. The cause of the lifeless water lies not in the gulf itself but on dry land, 2,000 kilometers upriver.
Enhancing Regional Renewables Cooperation in the EU Key insights and policy recommendations for decisionmakers on local, national and European level from a study tour to the North Sea region. By Kathrin Glastra and Anna Leidreiter
The Irreversible Momentum of Clean Energy President Barack Obama discusses the long-term potential of renewable energies and sees the global energy transition as irreversible. Now more than ever, the world needs to embrace the opportunity of clean energy and cooperate on its climate goals. By Barack Obama
In Good Company. The German Energy Transition and Its Echo in France The chosen method - retention of two thirds of nuclear energy - is only at first sight incompatible with the idea of the German energy transition. The objective is strikingly similar. By Kathrin Glastra and Andreas Rüdinger
[COP22] The Marrakesh Climate Negotiations – a Mirror of a Divided World and Silent Europe Compared to COP21 where the EU had a decisive bridge-building role between developed and developing countries in leading a strong climate coalition, in Marrakesh Europe appeared silent and divided. By Dr. Radostina Primova , Damjan Bogunovic and Oksana Aliieva
A Tsunami in Winter: Europe Shakes up Its Energy Policy The European Commission’s winter package aims to reform the EU's energy system. Despite positive developments, EU Member States are still far from finding common ground By Kathrin Glastra and Rebecca Bertram
North Sea Study Tour: Regional Renewables Cooperation in Practice Regional cooperation can play a key role in meeting the EU'S climate and energy targets for the year 2020. By organising a North Sea study tour with various regional stakeholders we put theory into practice. By Kathrin Glastra and Anna Leidreiter
New units of measure of market-compliant nature within the Green Economy Trade with compensation credits is a prime example of how abstractions influence environmental policy. The astonishing reduction of unique habitats to a few measurable indicators is a prerequisite for trading biodiversity offsets.
[COP21] The makers and profiteers of the new economy of nature The call for an economic valuation of nature, and in particular for limits on pollution and the destruction of nature, is linked to the demand for a more flexible implementation of environmental laws and regulations. The idea of “compensation instead of reduction” is intended to guarantee this flexibility.
A new nature in the wake of the Green Economy An ecological crisis that is becoming increasingly hard to ignore is confronting policymakers with a dilemma: they are being called upon to protect the conditions for life on Earth without overly hampering industrial production and economic growth.
[COP21] What are compensation credits and why are they so controversial? Corporations whose business models require the exploitation and destruction of nature are increasingly marketing products as carbon-neutral and deforestation-free. This is made possible by the concept of “compensation instead of reduction”. How does it work?
Old and new markets for compensation credits Trading in compensation credits is used to legalize emissions that exceed binding regulatory limits. It also occurs in areas without legal limits.
Market-compliant forest conservation (REDD+) REDD is a mechanism for “Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation” in so-called developing countries that has been discussed in the context of the UN climate talks since 2005.
Further information on the New Economy of Nature Here you will find recommendations and links to the most important articles, publications, databases and videos related to our dossier "New Economy of Nature".
Nord Stream II: Shaking hands with the devil The gas pipeline Nord Stream II should double the existing natural gas transport capacity from Russia to Germany via the Baltic Sea. Juraj Mesík explains why the Kremlin will be the biggest winner of this project. By Juraj Mesík
The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2016 In addition to the usual, global overview of status and trends in reactor building and operating, as well as the traditional comparison between deployment trend in the nuclear power and renewable energy sectors, the 2016 edition of the World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR) provides an assessment of the trends of the economic health of some of the major players in the industry. By Mycle Schneider
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Aloft: Graphics and license terms All graphics of the publication Aloft - An Inflight Review are under the Creative Commons license CC-BY-NC-ND. This means: You can copy and redistribute the work in compliance with these conditions.
Negotiation matters The EU wanted to exert international pressure to speed up the reduction of carbon emissions in air traffic. However, it failed because its climate policy met with existing conflicts of interest. By Dietmar Bartz
Air travel versus … Experts in Germany and the EU are ascertaining the environmental ranking of different transport modes. By Dietmar Bartz
Technology of the future In the coming decades, new aircraft engines and production methods could make flying more sustainable. “Hybrid flying” using electrical energy has already begun and 3D printing promises higher efficiency and a cleaner production process. By Dietmar Bartz
Editorial for "Aloft - An Inflight Review" Flying is a central component of the globally networked world. At the same time, the environmental impact can no longer be ignored. Air traffic needs to become more environmentally friendly. This is where the cooperation of Airbus Group and the Heinrich Böll Foundation begins, because a climate-friendly flying is a common interest of all. By Ralf Fücks and Tom Enders
Magic numbers: How to meet emissions targets without cutting emissions Aviation is a good example of how emissions reduction targets can be met without cutting emissions. By Barbara Unmüßig , Lili Fuhr and Thomas Fatheuer
The Future of Air Travel The book “Aloft – An Inflight Review” is a joint publication of the Heinrich Böll Foundation and the Airbus Group. In the following interview Ralf Fücks explains how such a co-operation project came about and what steps need to be taken to make air travel more environmentally friendly.
Nuclear Energy in Europe: yes please?! On the European Commission's Hidden Agenda Contrary to the objective to quit nuclear energy, a recent paper of the European Commission’s DG Research maps out possible nuclear research priorities. An analysis to put the latest developments into perspective. By Kathrin Glastra
Nord Stream 2 – not a Private Matter An essay from Annalena Baerbock, Oliver Krischer, Dr. Anton Hofreiter, Marieluise Beck, Bärbel Höhn, Dieter Janecek, Omid Nouripour, Manuel Sarrazin und Dr. Julia Verlinden By Annalena Baerbock , Oliver Krischer , Dr. Anton Hofreiter , Marieluise Beck , Bärbel Höhn , Dieter Janecek , Manuel Sarrazin , Dr. Julia Verlinden and Omid Nouripour
Why Are Gender Considerations Key for Climate Finance Actions? On Thursday March 17th at the U.N.’s 60th Commission on the Status of Women, hbs North America led a parallel event entitled “Why Are Gender Considerations Key for Climate Finance Actions?” Here is a quick peek into the outcomes of the discussion. By Liane Schalatek and Beverly Harp
New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski
New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski
New government, same thorny old question - future of the Polish coal The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. By Michał Olszewski
Kick-off Workshop on "Driving up Regional Cooperation for Renewables in the European Union" The stakeholder workshop will gather regional experts from across Europe to discuss practical, legal and political challenges and chancesfor regional renewable energy cooperation. By Kathrin Glastra
The Role of Cities and Regions as Drivers of Global Climate Leadership in the post-Paris Climate and Energy Governance. Best Practices in Europe, China and the US In cooperation with the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU and Stiftung Asienhaus, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung EU Office has the pleasure to invite you to a conference on regional and local best practices in tackling climate mitigation and adaptation challenges. By Dr. Radostina Primova
Civil Society’s Role in Climate Politics Finding an answer to the question of how to deal with global climate change is no easy feat and the issue has been setting challenges for international politics for decades. In Germany a scientific advisory body was established with the aim to support the German government in the field of climate politics, the so-called WBGU. By Barbara Unmüßig
Introduction: Regions for Green Economy The European Commission, the European Council and the European Parliament have all repeatedly called for regional cooperation in the context of the 2030 framework on climate and energy and the Energy Union. By Klaus Linsenmeier , Dr. Radostina Primova and Kathrin Glastra
The Paris Agreement: What does it mean for the EU’s Domestic Energy Policy and External Climate Strategies? Paris has been declared by many as a historic moment and breakthrough in international climate negotiations. By putting an end to the Kyoto governance and signalling the decline of the fossil fuel area, this new agreement is a huge step forward in the history of international climate diplomacy. By Dr. Radostina Primova and Kathrin Glastra
What the Paris Agreement means for Climate Policy in the US Commentary In his support of, in and for Paris, President Obama has emerged as the first real “Climate President” of the United States. Nevertheless, whether or not his country and predecessor will remain faithful to this legacy remains uncertain. By Rebecca Bertram
[COP21] COP 21 and the Paris Agreement: A Force Awakened Globally, political leaders are lauding the acceptance of the global and legally binding Paris Agreement on Climate Change at COP 21 as a historical moment. It achieves a goal long believed unattainable. However, judged against the enormity of the challenge and the needs and pressure from people on the ground demanding a global deal anchored in climate justice (“system change, not climate change!”), the Paris Agreement can only be called a collective failure and disappointment. Read a critical assessment by hbs colleagues from around the world. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek , Maureen Santos , Hans JH Verolme , Dr. Radostina Primova and Damjan Bogunović
Key Messages from Warsaw to Paris and Beyond The Brussels climate dialogue series that was held from the Climate Summit in Warsaw (COP19 ) until the Climate Summit in Paris (COP21) resulted in the following six key messages to build EU climate ambition in the international climate negotiations By Silvia Brugger , Dr. Radostina Primova and Rosalind Cook
"We will always have Taiga, we will always have coal" Commentary For his documentary a finnish filmmaker followed the coaltravel from Kuzbass to Helsinki. His plan: talking to people in the train about climate change. But they didn't want to talk with him. By Anastasia Laukkanen
Poland’s approach to the Paris COP Poland is a major coal producer. Miners there are well organised and have strong political leverage. There is a big question mark over how the new government want to approach EU climate policy. An analysis. By Tobiasz Adamczewski
Protests: A broad alliance with staying power Around the world, people are fighting back against the coal industry. Theyface repression, harassment and violence – but sometimes they are successful. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Benjamin von Brackel
Emissions trading: Strong players, feeble instruments Trading in pollution permits has blossomed into a big business. The system has produced little benefit for the climate. Even so, the alternatives are barely discussed. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke
India: Rich in coal but poor in energy Coal is an important part of India’s energy mix. Local production is not enough: strong demand is attracting imports from Australia and elsewhere. However, India has huge potential for renewable energy. By Axel Harneit-Sievers
The energy transition: Turning from burning - powering up renewables The share of renewable energy in the global power mix is growing fast. Nations and corporations are switching over. However, a complete shift away from fossil energy is still not in sight. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Arne Jungjohann
Lobbying: Paid to prevent progress Wherever climate and energy negotiations take place, the coal industry wants to have their say. They often succeed. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Cindy Baxter
Subsidies: Hidden payments, unpaid bills The coal industry uses taxpayers’ money to keep its prices low – and it does not compensate for the costs of climate change or disease. A brief look at the scale of the problem. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Lili Fuhr , Arne Jungjohann and Stefanie Groll
EU energy policy: On track, but aiming too low The European Union’s climate policy aims for lower emissions, lower consumption and an increase in renewable energy. The targets are achievable – but they ought to be more ambitious. By Arne Jungjohann
Finance: Big players behind the scenes Digging mines, building power plants and providing infrastructure cost billions. Many countries cannot afford the investments; credit agencies and multilateral and private banks are glad to step in. By Arne Jungjohann
Profitability: Deflating the carbon bubble Successful climate policies mean that coal is becoming a less valuable resource. This affects the companies that dig it up. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Cindy Baxter
China: Black fuel, in the red Change is under way for the world’s biggest coal consumer; consumption in 2014 was down. Renewables are up. Coal-fired power plants are working at less than full capacity. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Arne Jungjohann
Labour: Dirty jobs in a dirty industry Although coal production is still on the rise, the sector is employing fewer people. Structural change has spread to all continents. Nevertheless, mining underground remains one of the most dangerous occupations worldwide. By Benjamin von Brackel
Health: Fine dust, fat price Smoke and fumes from coal-fired power plants make us ill. They are responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide each year. Atmospheric and environmental pollution from coal costs billions in health expenses. By Heike Holdinghausen
Coal Atlas 2015: Introduction Coal was, and still is, the fuel of industrialization and global economic growth. Though its negative consequences for humans and nature outweigh its economic benefits. We hope that our Coal Atlas will spur the international campaign to phase out the use of coal. By Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks
Human rights: Pushed down and driven out When the coal firms arrive, local people can expect forced removal and repression. Voluntary standards are of little help. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Heidi Feldt and Marcus Franken
Russia: The land without doubt or debate Coal is one of the dirtiest industries in Russia. Apart from hydropower, renewable energy is practically non-existent. Civil society groups that might push for more sustainable sources of power are few and far between. By Vladimir Slivyak
Germany: A turnaround yet to turn Germany is phasing out nuclear power and has come to rely more on coal for its electricity. Despite a steep rise in renewable energy, the use of coal is endangering Germany’s ambitious target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. By Eva Mahnke
Geology and geography: Subterranean forests Coal is formed from vegetation at high temperatures and pressures, cut off from the air. The older the coal, the more carbon and energy it contains. Deposits are located in all continents. By Heike Holdinghausen
Nature: A contaminated future Open-cast mining destroys the landscape of both the pit and the surrounding area. Efforts to restore these areas often fail and the surface above the underground mines sinks. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke
Greenhouse gases: Spoiling the climate Digging up coal and using it to generate electricity churns out emissions that intensify the greenhouse effect. Coal is one of the biggest sources of climate change. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Eva Mahnke
United States: Past its prime The US coal industry is losing market share to gas and renewables. The nation’s dirtiest fuel is giving way to cleaner alternatives. A chapter from the Coal Atlas. By Tim McDonnell
Carbon capture and storage: Problems at depth With the promise of “clean coal”, the industry intends to store carbon dioxide underground. However, this method of dealing with the climate crisis fails for both technical and economic reasons. By Eva Mahnke
History: The bedrock of industry Coal is the fuel that powered the Industrial Revolution and the transformation of economies and societies over the last two centuries. Its benefits have been huge – while the damage it has wrought was ignored for too long. By Eva Mahnke
History: The bedrock of industry Coal is the fuel that powered the Industrial Revolution and the transformation of economies and societies over the last two centuries. Its benefits have been huge – while the damage it has wrought was ignored for too long. By Eva Mahnke
The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski
The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski
The Polish conservatives and the ecology issue The conviction that Poland should denounce the EU climate agreement still forms a big part of the political beliefs. However, other voices on this issue can increasingly be heard on the right side of the political spectrum. By Michał Olszewski
Transparency standards should include climate risks Rigorous disclosure requirements and increased transparency are vital to reclaim the space for citizens to be able to demand climate justice. By Lili Fuhr and Simon Taylor
From Warsaw to Paris: Introduction The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union in cooperation with E3G organise the Dialogue Series “From Warsaw to Paris” on EU ambition in the international climate regime in the run-up to the Climate Summit (COP21) in Paris in 2015. By Silvia Brugger
Big Polluters, Pay up As the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations suffer huge losses from climate change, the entities most responsible for the problem - the so-called "Big Polluters" - continue to reap billions in profits. This has to change. By Stephen Leonard
Europe Must be Strong on Climate Risk at COP21 If the EU is serious about an ambitious agreement at the UN talks in Paris, it must prioritise adaptation and resilience to climate risk in the negotiations, write Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung's Presidents Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks and E3G's Chief Executive Nick Mabey. By Barbara Unmüßig and Ralf Fücks
Bold policies needed on Regional Renewables Cooperation The report Driving regional cooperation forward in the 2030 renewable energy framework, explores the role of regional cooperation to reach or even exceed the target of at least 27% renewables by 2030.
The Czech Nuclear Illusion In the first week of June, the Czech government adopted an action plan that is supposed to lead to the construction of four new reactors in the country. The government’s decision, however, is not the product of a rational political debate; it is the result of the long-term erosion of responsible governing. By Martin Sedlák
How the EU can lead on climate change and migration – Time to translate research findings into policies The interrelation between climate change and migration is complex and at times hard to grasp. Environmentally-induced migration intersects with development, adaptation, humanitarian and migration policies, which leads to difficulties in adequately responding to the phenomenon. By Silvia Brugger and Diane Le Naour
What Germany can learn from California's start-up culture Entrepreneurial spirit will play an important role in driving energy transitions around the world. Cem Özdemir travelled to San Francisco to witness how innovative solutions are driving low-carbon development in the Bay Area.
European Perspectives on the German Energy Transition The German energy transition - or Energiewende - cannot be regarded as a solely German phenomenon and is increasingly impacting energy systems far beyond its borders. If the Energiewende is to turn into a true success story it must become more European.
Interview on Smart Growth with Ralf Fücks, Co-President of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung North America spoke with our Co-President, Ralf Fücks, about the need for a global, smart green growth strategy, outlined in his new book 'Green Growth, Smart Growth - A New Approach to Economics, Innovation and the Environment'. By Ralf Fücks
“Ambitious Alliance Needed On Climate” From EU-CELAC Lawmakers Find our press release to the conclusion of the 2015 Summit of the European Union and the Community of latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).
Ma Propre Énergie L’énergie, ça vous parle ? Cette bande-dessinée va vous permettre d’y voir plus clair! We have recently launched with partners the web comic 'Ma propre énergie' in which we depeict in a playful manner the history of energy in France from ancient times to today. Get involved for more local, renewable and controllable energy!
Nuclear optimism will cost CZK 32 billion In the spring of 2014, power company ČEZ cancelled its tender for the construction of two new blocks at the Temelín Nuclear Power Station. The decision came immediately after the government adopted a resolution in which it rejected “involvement in any type of state guarantee” for new nuclear projects. By Karel Polanecký
Save our Soils! Healthy soils are crucial to human nutrition and the fight against hunger. But worldwide 24 billion tons of fertile soil is lost annually. Barbara Unmüßig calls attention to the growing threat to one of Earth’s most important resources. By Barbara Unmüßig
Climate Action from Lima to Paris – Allying Europe and Latin America for a fair and ambitious global climate deal The European Union has to revive its alleged climate leadership, build up trust and confidence, and form coalitions in order to make the 2015 Climate Summit (COP21) in Paris a success. Together, the EU and Latin American and Caribbean countries make up almost one third of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. An alliance between Europe and Latin America could revive and lead the negotiations towards a fair and ambitious global climate deal in Paris. By Silvia Brugger and Gustavo Hernández
First in the class, but not best in the Class – The EU’s Proposal for the 2015 Climate Conference in Paris The European Commission recently released its vision for the global climate change agreement, which is due to be adopted in Paris in December. It is worth noting that the EU is the first negotiating party to present its offer for the Paris agreement. Nevertheless, the extent to which the offer paves the way to an ambitious climate deal in Paris is questionable indeed. By Silvia Brugger
La production et la surconsommation de viande industrielle saccagent la planète Montreuil, Bruxelles, le 24 février 2015 – En plein salon de l’Agriculture, les Amis de la Terre Europe et la Fondation Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung publient la version française de « L’Atlas de la viande ». Son constat est sans appel : la production industrielle de viande et de produits laitiers a des effets de plus en plus destructeurs sur les sociétés humaines et l’environnement.
Trade in Raw Materials Between the EU and Latin America In March 2014, parliamentarians from the Euro-Latin America Parliamentary Assembly (EuroLat) voted in favour of a resolution on “Trade in raw materials between the European Union and Latin America”. The resolution stresses that a transition towards a different model is needed and suggests several practical steps to improve the current situation. By Johanna Sydow
Radical Goals for Sustainable Development Barbara Unmüßig, Co-President of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, contributed to Project Syndicate by demanding radical goals for sustainable development to succeed the United Nations' Millenium Development Goals. By Barbara Unmüßig
The Lima Languishing The COP 20’s “Lima call for climate action” is no wake-up call but a worrisome sign of a feeble multilateral climate process plagued by political deafness and leaving poor and vulnerable communities alone with the impacts of climate change. By Lili Fuhr , Liane Schalatek and Maureen Santos
The UN Climate Summit – Between the Rock of Ambition and the Hard Place of Reality The Ban Ki-moon Climate Summit, with the expected participation of more than 120 heads of states and high-ranking government officials from over 160 countries, is not part of the official UN climate negotiations process. Nevertheless, when the UN Secretary General announced the special summit more than a year ago, he did so certainly in hopes that government heads would strive to display decisive actions and announce ambitious emissions reduction goals to grease the path to a new global climate deal post-2020. By Liane Schalatek
Cloudy skies over Czech photovoltaics In many countries, solar energy is enjoying great success – photovoltaic modules are increasingly affordable and available to those interested in producing their own electricity. In the Czech Republic, however, those investing in and building solar power stations must constantly resist efforts by the government to destabilise the business environment, writes Martin Sedlák, Director of the Alliance for Energy Independence. By Martin Sedlák
Renewables most Cost-Effective Option for 2030 EU Energy Mix The French version of the study ‘Renewables: The Only Path to a Secure, Affordable and Climate-friendly Energy System by 2030’, published today by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union, demonstrates that a renewable strategy would prove to be much cheaper for the EU than a conventional strategy.
Description and political analysis of the current state of the Polish Energy Policy The problem in Poland is the coal-based structure of the energy sector. This results in the highest external costs for the production of energy in the EU, contributing to the loss of 1.2 million days’ pay annually as an effect of health problems. By Andrzej Kassenberg
The French Energy Transition at crossroads Will the French government really take a major energy, societal and economic change forward and seize the opportunities the Energy Transition offers? Or will it listen to vested interests in nuclear power and fossil fuels? By Celia Gautier
Energy policy delivery is getting lost among UK’s parochial political football games Energy policy has certainly become a popular sport in the UK these days. With the country preparing for a general election in a year’s time, the topic is now becoming a big political football. By Mark Johnston
The EU 2030 Climate and Energy Framework: What is at Stake for the Global Climate Commentary How will the EU’s 2030 decisions influence the global fight against climate change. By Silvia Brugger
A European Union for Renewable Energy The EU needs a common vision for its energy future. A shift towards renewable energy sources will increase security of supply and foster the competitiveness and sustainability of the economy.
Round Table Discussion - The Future of EU Energy Policy With its 2050 Roadmaps the European Union is setting out a plan to meet the long-term target of reducing emissions by 80 to 95% by 2050 and is exploring routes towards a decarbonised energy system. All the scenarios of the European Commission indicate a growing share of renewables. A strong growth of renewable energy is described as a 'no regrets' option. A main challenge today is to ensure that strong growth in renewable energy continues after 2020 when the current renewables framework with binding targets expires.
How Germany Became Europe’s Green Leader This article examines how German environmental policymaking over the last 40 years transformed Europe’s economic engine into the international driver of green growth.
Is the Raw Material Initiative in line with the EU Policy Coherence for Development? All around the world, mining has led to resettlements of the local population, drinking water contamination by cyanide spillages, large reduction of farmland, inadequate compensation paid by mining companies, and waste dumps near resettled villages result in health problems and the loss of traditional jobs such as agriculture and pastoral activities at the place of extraction.
Analysis of the EU Raw Materials Initiative On 2 February 2011, the European Commission presented an update to its Raw Materials Strategy from 2008. What are the practical implications of this European strategy, especially for resource rich developing countries around the world?
Resource Curse in Latin America Natural resources form a huge part of the wealth of developing countries. However, that is only a potential wealth for the people.
The World Nuclear Status Report 2013 Two years after Fukushima, global nuclear power generation continues to decline. If it were not for the World Nuclear Industry Status Report we probably would not know. By Mycle Schneider
Buen Vivir and Green New Deal: Equivalent Concepts for the EU and Latin America? Buen Vivir is a Latin American concept which can be understood in three differing ways, but mainly as a critique to the Western way of development. The equivalent school of thoughts in Europe is based on the, the Green New Deal, which proposes a strategy to confront the challenges of global warming, finite resources and etc. Despite this connection, the Green New Deal it is not a goal in itself, it is just a tool, differing from a political philosophy like Buen Vivir.
A Summary of the Differences, Similarities and Possible Articulations between ‘Buen Vivir’ and ‘Green New Deal’ Buen Vivir is a criticism of what could be described as an ideology or cultural aspect of development. This paper will briefly touch upon the three different interpretations of the complex Latin American concept of Buen Vivir and then compare it to the European New Green Deal.
Raw Material Initiative 2011- Sustainable and Resource Efficient? The Raw Materials Initiative may represent a first step for Europe to less resource dependency, but the question arises as to whether it also appropriately addresses climate challenges and provides a basis for a resource efficient and responsible environmental policy.
Impacts of EU Agrofuel Policy on Latin America There is a broad consensus that apart of investing our energy in a certain fuel quality a fundamental change in transport politics is necessary in order to save more fuel and consequently Green House Gas emissions. In this regard the EU can also be a role model encouraging efficient transport policies.
GERMANY/FARM STRUCTURES - Whosoever Hath, to Him Shall Be Given Article One by one, Germany’s farms are dying off. One in every two farms was run as a sideline: the majority of the household’s income came from activities other than agriculture. For many, that is a worrying trend. But to fight it, society must agree on what the future of agriculture should look like. By Astrid Häger and Julia Christiane Schmid
EU /WORLD TRADE - A Global Price Tag for Europe's Agrifood sector Article Europe’s agriculture is part of many international value chains. It influences global commodity markets and thus the prices, products, income and diets in developing countries. Disagreement exists as to whether the area payments have a negative effect on developing countries. By Tobias Reichert and Berit Thomsen
FRANCE/AGROECOLOGY - The Key to Sustainability Article French agricultural policy has been guided by an agroecological project since 2014. But these good intentions are not refl ected in the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy. It is high time to put the focus on agroecology. By Xavier Poux
EU/ORGANIC FARMING - Working with Nature Article Rising demand for organic products in Europe is a market opportunity for producers and the food industry. But farmers need help to switch from conventional to organic, and to stay organic in face of market pressures inducing them to switch back. The Common Agricultural Policy offers some support – but not enough. By Rebekka Frick , Matthias Stolze and Helga Willer
EU/FARMS - Growing Up Article Like all industries, agriculture is subject to economies of scale. But larger farms have a smaller workforce and can be a bigger burden on the environment if they employ industrial methods, compared to the low-input systems that have traditionally dominated rural landscapes. It is time to shift policies towards preserving jobs and communities, being kinder on the environment, and encouraging young people to take up the farming profession. By Stanka Becheva and Véronique Rioufol
POLAND/AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES - Misguided Transformation Article The transition from communism to a free market has resulted in both pluses and minuses for Polish farms. Incomes have risen, especially for large farms. But young people are leaving, industrial farms have appeared, small farms are going under, and the income gap among farmers has widened. By Zbigniew Karaczun
ITALY/NATURA 2000 - Farming and Environment: a Delicate Balance Article Natura 2000 is the EU’s most important nature-conservation initiative. In Italy, this programme protects 2,944 sites, covering over 214,000 farms and 1.5 million hectares of agricultural land. The protected area is mainly made up of woodland, rough grazing and arable land. By Franco Ferroni
EU/RURAL DEVELOPMENT - For Some, the Secondary Pillar Has the Second Priority Article The Common Agricultural Policy has two “pillars”, or pots of money to draw from. Pillar I, which consists largely of direct payments to farmers according to the area they manage, has come in for a lot of criticism. Pillar II, which supports rural development policy, is seen as more useful. But as the agriculture budget shrinks, it is Pillar II that faces the bigger cuts. By Helene Schulze , Oliver Moore and Hans Martin Lorenzen
EU/DIRECT PAYMENTS - Tied to the Land Article Three-quarters of the Common Agricultural Policy budget goes into direct payments for farmers – almost regardless of what they do. Most of the money benefits just a few large producers and fails to deliver on the social and environmental challenges rural areas face. By Alan Matthews
EU/BIODIVERSITY - Intensification vs Conservation Article People often say that there are fewer birds and insects now than there used to be. That is true, and intensive agriculture is largely to blame. Despite some lip service paid to the necessity of nature conservation, the overwhelming weight of European agricultural policy is to promote yet more intensification. By Harriet Bradley
EU/INTRODUCTION - Hitting Targets, Missing Goals Introduction The Common Agricultural Policy is one of the EU’s oldest policies. Despite its extensive funds and regular reforms every seven years, it is poorly attuned to the needs of Europe’s hugely diverse farm sector. Goals to minimize and adapt to climate change, protect the environment and promote rural development are poorly served. By Dr. Christine Chemnitz and Christian Rehmer
SPAIN/WATER - Mainly in the Plain Article Farming around the Mediterranean has become more and more dependent on irrigation, without any realistic consideration of the limited water available. Spain is no exception. The disappearance of many traditional irrigation systems has led to the loss of their valuable agroecosystems. By Por Otra PAC