### transactions with related parties may cause prejudice to companies and their shareholders , as they may give the related party the opportunity to appropriate value belonging to the company . thus , adequate safeguards for the protection of shareholders’ interests are of importance . for this reason member states should ensure that related party transactions representing more than 5 % of the companies’ assets or transactions which can have a significant impact on profits or turnover should be submitted to a vote by the shareholders in a general meeting . where the related party transaction involves a shareholder , this shareholder should be excluded from that vote . the company should not be allowed to conclude the transaction before the shareholders’ approval of the transaction . for transactions with related parties that represent more than 1% of their assets companies should publicly announce such transactions at the time of the conclusion of the transaction , and accompany the announcement by a report from an independent third party assessing whether the transaction is on market terms and confirming that the transaction is fair and reasonable from the perspective of the shareholders , including minority shareholders . member states should be allowed to exclude transactions entered into between the company and its wholly owned subsidiaries . member states should also be able to allow companies to request the advance approval by shareholders for certain clearly defined types of recurrent transactions above 5 percent of the assets , and to request from shareholders an advance exemption from the obligation to produce an independent third party report for recurrent transactions above 1 percent of the assets , under certain conditions , in order to facilitate the conclusion of such transactions by companies . ### transactions with related parties may cause prejudice to companies and their shareholders , as they may give the related party the opportunity to appropriate value belonging to the company . thus , adequate safeguards for the protection of shareholders’ interests are of importance . for this reason member states should have the possibility to ensure that related party transactions representing more than 5 % of the companies’ assets should be submitted to a vote by the shareholders in a general meeting . where the related party transaction involves a shareholder , this shareholder should be excluded from that vote . the company should not be allowed to conclude the transaction before the shareholders’ approval of the transaction . for transactions with related parties that represent more than 1% of their assets companies should publicly announce such transactions at the time of the conclusion of the transaction , and accompany the announcement by a report from an independent third party assessing whether the transaction is on market terms and confirming that the transaction is fair and reasonable from the perspective of the shareholders , including minority shareholders . member states should be allowed to exclude transactions entered into between the company and its group companies . member states should also be able to allow companies to request the advance approval by shareholders for certain clearly defined types of recurrent transactions above 5 percent of the assets , and to request from shareholders an advance exemption from the obligation to produce an independent third party report for recurrent transactions above 1 percent of the assets , under certain conditions , in order to facilitate the conclusion of such transactions by companies . member states should have the possibility to exempt from the required shareholders ' vote day - to - day transactions that form part of a company ' s ordinary business in view of proportionality and administrative costs .


### in view of directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 199519 it is necessary to strike a balance between the facilitation of the exercise of shareholders ' rights and the right to privacy and the protection of personal data . the identification information on shareholders should be limited to the name and contact details of the corresponding shareholders . this information should be accurate and kept up - to - date , and intermediaries as well as companies should allow for rectification or erasure of all incorrect or incomplete data . this identification information on shareholders should not be used for any other purpose than the facilitation of the exercise of shareholder rights . __________________ 19 directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data . ### in view of directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 199519 it is necessary to strike a balance between the facilitation of the exercise of shareholders ' rights and the right to privacy and the protection of personal data . the identification information on shareholders should be limited to the name and contact details of the corresponding shareholders . this information should be accurate and kept up - to - date , kept safe and intermediaries as well as companies and their shareholders should allow for rectification or erasure of all incorrect or incomplete data . this identification information on shareholders should not be used for any other purpose than the facilitation of the exercise of shareholder rights . __________________ 19 directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data .


### member states shall ensure that an intermediary that reports the name and contact details of a shareholder is not considered in breach of any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision . ### member states shall ensure and specify in national legislation that an intermediary that reports the name and contact details of a shareholder is not considered in breach of any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision .


### member states shall ensure that if a company chooses not to directly communicate with its shareholders , the information related to their shares shall be transmitted to them or , in accordance with the instructions given by the shareholder , to a third party , by the intermediary without undue delay in all of the following cases : ### member states shall ensure that insofar as a company&#160 ; does not&#160 ; directly communicate with its shareholders , the information related to their shares shall be transmitted to them or , in accordance with the instructions given by the shareholder , to a third party , by the intermediary without undue delay in at least the following cases :


### member states shall ensure that companies confirm the votes cast in general meetings by or on behalf of shareholders . in case the intermediary casts the vote , it shall transmit the voting confirmation to the shareholder . where there is more than one intermediary in the holding chain the confirmation shall be transmitted between intermediaries without undue delay . ### member states may take measures to ensure that companies confirm the votes cast in general meetings by or on behalf of shareholders . in case the intermediary casts the vote , it shall transmit the voting confirmation to the shareholder . where there is more than one intermediary in the holding chain the confirmation shall be transmitted between intermediaries without undue delay .


### member states shall ensure that institutional investors and asset managers publicly disclose on an annual basis their engagement policy , how it has been implemented and the results thereof . the information referred to in the first sentence shall at least be available on the company ' s website . institutional investors and asset managers shall , for each company in which they hold shares , disclose if and how they cast their votes in the general meetings of the companies concerned and provide an explanation for their voting behaviour . where an asset manager casts votes on behalf of an institutional investor , the institutional investor shall make a reference as to where such voting information has been published by the asset manager . ### member states may take measures to ensure that institutional investors and asset managers publicly disclose on an annual basis their engagement policy , how it has been implemented and the results thereof insofar as disclosure does not influence the competitive position of the relevant company in a negative way . the information referred to in the first sentence shall at least be available on the company ' s website . institutional investors and asset managers shall , for each company in which they hold shares , disclose if and how they cast their votes in the general meetings of the companies concerned and provide an explanation for their voting behaviour . where an asset manager casts votes on behalf of an institutional investor , the institutional investor shall make a reference as to where such voting information has been published by the asset manager .


### member states shall ensure that institutional investors disclose to the public how their equity investment strategy is aligned with the profile and duration of their liabilities and how it contributes to the medium to long - term performance of their assets . the information referred to in the first sentence shall at least be available on the company ' s website as long as it is applicable . ### member states&#160 ; may take measures to&#160 ; ensure that institutional investors disclose to the public how their equity investment strategy is aligned with the profile and duration of their liabilities and how it contributes to the medium to long - term performance of their assets . this should only be done if disclosure does not influence the competitive position of the relevant company in&#160 ; a negative way . the information referred to in the first sentence shall at least be available on the company ' s website as long as it is applicable .


### member states shall ensure that asset managers disclose on a half - yearly basis to the institutional investor with which they have entered into the arrangement referred to in article 3g how their investment strategy and implementation thereof complies with that arrangement and how the investment strategy and implementation thereof contributes to medium to long - term performance of the assets of the institutional investor . ### member states may take measures to ensure that asset managers disclose on a half - yearly basis to the institutional investor with which they have entered into the arrangement referred to in article 3g how their investment strategy and implementation thereof complies with that arrangement and how the investment strategy and implementation thereof contributes to medium to long - term performance of the assets of the institutional investor .


### member states shall ensure that asset managers disclose to the institutional investor on a half - yearly basis all of the following information : ### member states may take measures to ensure that asset managers disclose to the institutional investor on a half - yearly basis all of the following information :


### member states shall ensure that shareholders have the right to vote on the remuneration policy as regards directors . companies shall only pay remuneration to their directors in accordance with a remuneration policy that has been approved by shareholders . the policy shall be submitted for approval by the shareholders at least every three years . ### member states&#160 ; may take measures to&#160 ; ensure that shareholders have the right to vote on the remuneration policy as regards directors . in that case , companies shall only pay remuneration to their directors in accordance with a remuneration policy that has been approved by shareholders . the policy shall be submitted for approval by the shareholders at least every three years .


### member states shall ensure that companies , in case of transactions with related parties that represent more than 1% of their assets , publicly announce such transactions at the time of the conclusion of the transaction , and accompany the announcement by a report from an independent third party assessing whether or not it is on market terms and confirming that the transaction is fair and reasonable from the perspective of the shareholders , including minority shareholders . the announcement shall contain information on the nature of the related party relationship , the name of the related party , the amount of the transaction and any other information necessary to assess the transaction . ### member states&#160 ; may take measures to&#160 ; ensure that companies , in case of transactions with related parties that represent more than 1% of their assets , publicly announce such transactions at the time of the conclusion of the transaction , and accompany the announcement by a report from an independent third party assessing whether or not it is on market terms and confirming that the transaction is fair and reasonable from the perspective of the shareholders , including minority shareholders . the announcement shall contain information on the nature of the related party relationship , the name of the related party , the amount of the transaction and any other information necessary to assess the transaction .


### member states shall ensure that transactions with related parties representing more than 5% of the companies’ assets or transactions which can have a significant impact on profits or turnover are submitted to a vote by the shareholders in a general meeting . where the related party transaction involves a shareholder , this shareholder shall be excluded from that vote . the company shall not conclude the transaction before the shareholders’ approval of the transaction . the company may however conclude the transaction under the condition of shareholder approval . ### member states shall ensure that transactions with related parties representing more than 5% of the companies ' assets are either submitted to a vote by the shareholders in a general meeting or to the approval of an administrative body of the company such as the independent directors or the audit committee or another committee the majority of which is composed by independent directors , assessing whether or not the transaction is fair and reasonable from the perspective of the company and consequently its shareholders .


### ' broker ' means any natural or legal person or partnership resident or established in a member state of the union that carries out services defined under point from the union into the territory of a third country ; ### ' broker ' means any natural or legal person or partnership resident or established in or national of a member state of the union that carries out services defined under point ;


### ‘ exporter’ means any natural or legal person or partnership on whose behalf an export declaration is made , that is to say the person who , at the time when the declaration is accepted , holds a contract with the consignee in the third country concerned and has the necessary power for determining the sending of the goods out of the customs territory of the union . if no export contract has been concluded or if the holder of the contract does not act on its own behalf , the exporter means the person who has the necessary power for determining the sending of the item out of the customs territory of the union . where the benefit of a right to dispose of the goods belongs to a person established outside the union pursuant to the contract on which the export is based , the exporter shall be considered to be the contracting party established in the union ; ### ‘ exporter’ means any natural or legal person or partnership on whose behalf an export declaration is made , that is to say the person who , at the time when the declaration is accepted , holds a contract with the consignee in the third country concerned and has the necessary power for determining the sending of the goods out of the customs territory of the union . if no export contract has been concluded or if the holder of the contract does not act on its own behalf , the exporter means the person who has the necessary power for determining the sending of the item out of the customs territory of the union . where the benefit of a right to dispose of the goods belongs to a person established outside the union pursuant to the contract on which the export is based , the exporter shall be considered to be the contracting party resident or established in the union ;


### decisions on applications for authorisations in respect of the export of goods listed in annex iiia shall be taken by the competent authorities on a case by case basis , taking into account all relevant considerations , including in particular whether an application in respect of an essentially identical export has been dismissed by another member state in the preceding three years and considerations about intended end - use and the risk of diversion . ### decisions on applications for authorisations in respect of the export of goods listed in annex iii and annex iiia shall be taken by the competent authorities on a case by case basis , taking into account all relevant considerations , including in particular whether an application in respect of an essentially identical export has been dismissed by another member state in the preceding three years and considerations about intended end - use and the risk of diversion .


### if it considers that there is no need to ask for supplementary information or , where applicable , upon receipt of the supplementary information it has requested , the commission shall within six months commence the procedure for the adoption of the requested amendment or inform the requesting member states of the reasons for not doing so . ### if it considers that there is no need to ask for supplementary information or , where applicable , upon receipt of the supplementary information it has requested , the commission shall within three months commence the procedure for the adoption of the requested amendment or inform the requesting member states of the reasons for not doing so .


### point 6 of article 1 and , to the extent that it inserts article 7d , point 7 of article 1 shall apply as from 1 january 2015 . ### point 6 of article 1 and , to the extent that it inserts article 7d , point 7 of article 1 shall apply as from 1 february 2016 .


### the european council of october 2014 set a 27 % energy efficiency target for 2030 , to be reviewed by 2020 ' having in mind an union level of 30 % ' . in december 2015 , the european parliament called upon the commission to also assess the viability of a 40 % energy efficiency target for the same timeframe . it is therefore appropriate to review and consequently amend the directive to adapt it to the 2030 perspective . ### the european council of october 2014 set a 27 % energy efficiency target for 2030 , to be reviewed by 2020 ' having in mind an union level of 30 % ' . in december 2015 , a small majority of the european parliament called upon the commission to also assess the viability of a 40 % energy efficiency target for the same timeframe . it is therefore appropriate to review and consequently amend the directive to adapt it to the 2030 perspective .


### energy savings which result from the implementation of union legislation may not be claimed unless the measure in question goes beyond the minimum required by the union legislation in question , whether by setting more ambitious energy efficiency requirements at national level or increasing the take up of the measure . recognising that renovation of buildings is an essential and long term element in increasing energy savings , it is necessary to clarify that all energy savings stemming from measures promoting the renovation of existing buildings can be claimed if they are additional to developments that would have happened in the absence of the policy measure and if the member state demonstrates that the obligated , participating or entrusted party has actually contributed to the achievement of the savings claimed from the measure in question . ### energy savings which result from the implementation of union legislation may not be claimed unless the measure in question goes beyond the minimum required by the union legislation in question , whether by setting more ambitious energy efficiency requirements at national level or increasing the take up of the measure . recognising that renovation of buildings is an essential and long term element with economies of scale in increasing energy savings , it is necessary to clarify that all energy savings stemming from measures promoting the renovation of existing buildings can be claimed if they are additional to developments that would have happened in the absence of the policy measure and if the member state demonstrates that the obligated , participating or entrusted party has actually contributed to the achievement of the savings claimed from the measure in question .


### improvements to the energy efficiency of buildings should benefit in particular consumers affected by energy poverty . member states can already require obligated parties to include social aims in energy saving measures , in relation to energy poverty , and this possibility should now be extended to alternative measures and transformed into an obligation while leaving full flexibility to member states with regard to the size , scope and content of such measures . in line with article 9 of the treaty , the union ' s energy efficiency policies should be inclusive and therefore also ensure accessibility of energy efficiency measures for energy poor consumers . ### improvements to the energy efficiency of buildings should benefit all eu citizens , in particular low - income social groups . member states may already require obligated parties to include social aims in energy saving measures and this possibility should now be extended to alternative measures while leaving full flexibility to member states with regard to the size , scope and content of such measures . in line with article 9 of the treaty , the union ' s energy efficiency policies should be inclusive and therefore also ensure accessibility of energy efficiency measures for energy poor consumers .


### improvements to the energy efficiency of buildings should benefit in particular consumers affected by energy poverty . member states can already require obligated parties to include social aims in energy saving measures , in relation to energy poverty , and this possibility should now be extended to alternative measures and transformed into an obligation while leaving full flexibility to member states with regard to the size , scope and content of such measures . in line with article 9 of the treaty , the union ' s energy efficiency policies should be inclusive and therefore also ensure accessibility of energy efficiency measures for energy poor consumers . ### improvements to the energy efficiency of buildings should benefit all consumers . member states can already require obligated parties to include social aims in energy saving measures , in relation to energy poverty , and this possibility should be extended to alternative measures and transformed into an obligation while leaving full flexibility to member states with regard to the size , scope and content of such measures . in line with article 9 of the treaty , the union ' s energy efficiency policies should be inclusive and therefore also ensure accessibility of energy efficiency measures for energy poor consumers .


### as part of the measures set out in the commission ' s communication new deal for energy consumers , in the context of the energy union and the heating and cooling strategy , consumers ' minimum rights to clear and timely information about their energy consumption need to be strengthened . articles 9 to 11 and annex vii of directive 2012 / 27 / eu should be amended to provide for frequent and enhanced feedback on energy consumption . it should also clarified that rights relating to billing and billing information apply for consumers of heating , cooling or hot water supplied from a central source even where they have no direct , individual contractual relationship with an energy supplier . therefore , for the purposes of these provisions , the term ' final user ' , should cover final customers purchasing heating , cooling or hot water for their own use as well as occupants of individual units of multi - apartment or multi - purpose buildings where such units are supplied from a central source . the term ' sub - metering ' should refer to measuring consumption in individual units of such buildings . by 1 january 2020 newly installed heat meters and heat cost allocators should be remotely readable to ensure cost - effective , frequent provision of consumption information . the new article 9a is intended to apply only to heating , cooling and hot water supplied from a central source . ### as part of the measures set out in the commission ' s communication new deal for energy consumers , in the context of the energy union and the heating and cooling strategy , consumers ' minimum rights to accurate , reliable , clear and timely information about their energy consumption need to be strengthened . member states should take into account that innovation and new technology ask for enhanced investments in education and skills , which are necessary for the successful implementation of such technologies and to enable both citizens and businesses to contribute to the fulfilment of energy efficiency goals . articles 9 to 11 and annex vii of directive 2012 / 27 / eu should be amended to provide for frequent and enhanced information about and feedback on energy consumption with the aim to optimise the energy use of consumers . it should also clarified that rights relating to billing and billing information apply for consumers of heating , cooling or hot water supplied from a central source even where they have no direct , individual contractual relationship with an energy supplier . therefore , for the purposes of these provisions , the term ' final user ' , should cover final customers purchasing heating , cooling or hot water for their own use as well as occupants of individual units of multi - apartment or multi - purpose buildings where such units are supplied from a central source . the term ' sub - metering ' should refer to measuring consumption in individual units of such buildings . by 1 january 2020 newly installed heat meters and heat cost allocators should be remotely readable to ensure cost - effective , frequent provision of consumption information . the new article 9a is intended to apply only to heating , cooling and hot water supplied from a central source .


### that the union ' s 2020 energy consumption has to be no more than 1 483 mtoe of primary energy and no more than 1 086 mtoe of final energy ; ### that the union ' s 2020 energy consumption should be no more than 1 483 mtoe of primary energy or no more than 1 086 mtoe of final energy ;


### gdp evolution and forecast ; ### gdp evolution and forecast and economic structural change ;


### by 30 june 2014 , the commission shall assess progress achieved and whether the union is likely to achieve energy consumption of no more than 1 483 mtoe of primary energy and no more than 1 086 mtoe of final energy in 2020 . ### by 30 june 2014 , the commission shall assess progress achieved and whether the union is likely to achieve energy consumption of no more than 1 483 mtoe of primary energy or no more than 1 086 mtoe of final energy in 2020 .


### sum the national indicative energy efficiency targets reported by member states ; ### sum the national indicative energy efficiency targets reported by member states before 1 july 2018 ;


### each member state shall set indicative national energy efficiency contributions towards the union ' s 2030 target referred to in article 1 paragraph 1 in accordance with articles [ 4 ] and [ 6 ] of regulation xx / 20xx [ governance of the energy union ] . when setting those contributions , member states shall take into account that the union’s 2030 energy consumption has to be no more than 1 321 mtoe of primary energy and no more than 987 mtoe of final energy . member states shall notify those contributions to the commission as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans in accordance with the procedure pursuant to articles [ 3 ] and [ 7 ] to [ 11 ] of regulation xx / 20xx [ governance of the energy union ] . ; ### each member state shall set indicative national energy efficiency contributions towards the union ' s 2030 target referred to in article 1 in accordance with the second and third subparagraphs of article 3 , taking into account articles [ 4 ] and [ 6 ] of regulation xx / 20xx [ governance of the energy union ] . when setting those contributions , member states shall take into account that the union’s 2030 energy consumption has to aim to be no more than [ 1 321 ] mtoe of primary energy or no more than [ 987 ] mtoe of final energy as reference baseline values and the primary and final energy consumption levels must be adjusted to : economic development or structural adjustment according to the production index on the ground of eurostat data ; changes in demographic developments ; climate variations or extreme events such as heat waves or cold spells , according to ipcc assessment reports ; energy consumption patterns due to innovation processes and implementation of environmental , energy and climate policy measures , such as decarbonisation measures , recycling processes , sector coupling or demand - side - management ; technological developments and increasing economic activity to allow for economic growth . the recalculation of the baseline values shall be done bi - annually based on national energy and climate plans and eurostat data . member states shall notify those contributions to the commission as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans in accordance with the procedure pursuant to articles [ 3 ] and [ 7 ] to [ 11 ] of regulation xx / 20xx [ governance of the energy union ] . ;


### carry out the calculation required by point of paragraph 1 using values of 1 % in 2014 and 2015 ; 1 . 25 % in 2016 and 2017 ; and 1 . 5 % in 2018 , 2019 and 2020 ; ### carry out the calculation required by point of paragraph 1 using values of at least 1 % in 2014 and 2015 ; at least 1 . 25 % in 2016 and 2017 ; and at least 1 . 5 % in 2018 , 2019 and 2020 ;


### allow energy savings achieved in the energy transformation , distribution and transmission sectors , including efficient district heating and cooling infrastructure , as a result of implementing the requirements set out in article 14 , point of article 14 and article 15 to and , to be counted towards the amount of energy savings required under paragraph 1 ; ### allow both new and additional energy savings via energy efficiency improvements throughout the entire energy chain , in the energy transformation , distribution and transmission sectors , including efficient district heating and cooling infrastructure , as a result of implementing the requirements set out in article 14 , point of article 14 and article 15 to and , to be counted towards the amount of energy savings required under paragraph 1 ;


### for the calculation of the amount of energy savings required for the period referred to in point of paragraph 1 member states may make use of points , , and of paragraph 2 , provided individual actions in the meaning of point continue to have a verifiable and measurable impact after 31 december 2020 . ### for the calculation of the amount of energy savings required for the period referred to in point of paragraph 1 member states may make use of point of paragraph 2 , provided individual actions in the meaning of point continue to have a verifiable and measurable impact after 31 december 2020 .


### where heating and cooling or hot water are supplied to a building from a central source servicing multiple buildings or from district heating and cooling network , a heat or hot water meter shall always be installed at the heat exchanger or point of delivery . ### where heating , cooling or hot water is supplied to a building from a central source servicing multiple buildings or from a district heating or cooling network , a meter shall be installed at the heat exchanger or point of delivery .


### where the use of individual meters is not technically feasible or where it is not cost - efficient to measure heating or cooling in each building unit , individual heat cost allocators shall be used to measure heat consumption at each radiator unless it is shown by the member state in question that the installation of such heat cost allocators would not be cost efficient . in those cases , alternative cost - efficient methods of heat consumption measurement may be considered . the conditions of technical non - feasibility and non - cost effectiveness shall be clearly set out and published by each member state . ### where the use of individual meters is not technically feasible , not cost - efficient or not proportionate to measure heating or cooling in each building unit , individual heat cost allocators shall be used to measure heat consumption at each radiator unless it is shown by the member state in question that the installation of such heat cost allocators would not be cost efficient . in those cases , alternative cost - efficient methods of heat consumption measurement may be considered . after consultation with the commission , the conditions of technical non - feasibility , non - cost effectiveness and non - proportionality shall be clearly set out and published by each member state before 1 january 2020 . these conditions should be duly substantiated , measurable and verifiable and based on objective and non - discriminatory criteria .


### where final customers do not have smart meters as referred to in directive 2009 / 73 / ec , member states shall ensure , by 31 december 2014 , that billing information is accurate and based on actual consumption , in accordance with point 1 . 1 of annex vii , for gas , where this is technically possible and economically justified . ; ### where final customers do not have smart meters as referred to in directive 2009 / 73 / ec , member states shall ensure , by 31 december 2014 , that billing information is reliable , accurate and based on actual consumption , in accordance with point 1 . 1 of annex vii , for gas , where this is technically possible and economically justified . ;


### member states shall ensure that billing and consumption information is accurate and based on actual consumption , in accordance with points 1 and 2 of annex viia for all final users where meters or cost allocators are installed . ### member states shall ensure that billing and consumption information is reliable and accurate and based on actual consumption , in accordance with points 1 and 2 of annex viia for all final users where meters or cost allocators are installed .


### the amount of energy savings required or to be achieved by the policy measure is expressed in either final or primary energy consumption , using the conversion factors set out in annex iv ; ### the amount of energy savings required or to be achieved by the policy measure is expressed in final and primary energy consumption , using the conversion factors set out in annex iv ;


### member states shall ensure that the following information is made available to final users in clear and understandable terms in or with their bills : ### member states shall ensure that the following information is accurate and made available to final users in clear and understandable terms in or with their bills :


### if the consulate is not competent , it shall , without delay , return the application form and any documents submitted by the applicant , reimburse the visa fee , and indicate which consulate is competent . ### if the consulate is not competent , it shall , within a maximum of eight days , return the application form and any documents submitted by the applicant , reimburse the visa fee , and indicate which consulate is competent .


### where the competent consulate finds that the conditions referred to in paragraph 1 have not been fulfilled , the application shall be inadmissible and the consulate without delay shall : ### where the competent consulate finds that the conditions referred to in paragraph 1 have not been fulfilled , the application shall be inadmissible and the consulate shall , within a maximum of eight days :


### the storage and handling of visa stickers shall be subject to adequate security measures to avoid fraud or loss . each consulate shall keep an account of its stock of visa stickers and register how each visa sticker has been used . ### the storage and handling of visa stickers shall be subject to adequate security measures to avoid fraud or loss . each consulate shall keep an account of its stock of visa stickers and register how each visa sticker has been used . digital systems shall therefore be developed to ensure transparency in the management of visa stickers .


### member states’ consulates shall keep archives of applications . each individual file shall contain the application form , copies of relevant supporting documents , a record of checks made and the reference number of the visa issued , in order for staff to be able to reconstruct , if need be , the background for the decision taken on the application . ### member states’ consulates shall keep digital archives of applications . each individual file shall contain the application form , copies of relevant supporting documents , a record of checks made and the reference number of the visa issued , in order for staff to be able to reconstruct , if need be , the background for the decision taken on the application .


### member states shall deploy appropriate staff in sufficient numbers to carry out the tasks relating to the examining of applications , in such a way as to ensure reasonable and harmonised quality of service to the public . ### member states shall deploy appropriate staff in sufficient numbers to carry out the tasks relating to the examining of applications , in such a way as to ensure reasonable and harmonised quality of service to the public . staff shall receive training on electronic and digital file management .


### the . eu tld should provide a clearly identified link with the union and the european market place . it should enable undertakings , organisations and natural persons within the union to register a domain name under the . eu tld . union citizens should be allowed to register a . eu domain name , regardless of their place of residence . ### the . eu tld should provide a clearly identified link with the union and the european market place , creating a strong identity for the digital single market , subject to union law and trading standards . it should enable undertakings and organisations established within the union , and natural persons who are residents of a member state to register a domain name under the . eu tld . union citizens should be allowed to register a . eu domain name , regardless of their place of residence .


### the commission should , on the basis of an open , transparent and non - discriminatory selection procedure , designate a registry for the . eu tld . the commission should enter into a contract with the selected registry which should include the detailed principles and procedures applying to the registry for the organisation , administration and management of the . eu tld . the contract should be limited in time and renewable . ### the commission should , on the basis of an open , transparent and non - discriminatory selection procedure , designate a registry for the . eu tld . in order to establish the criteria for the designation of a registry and an open , transparent and non - discriminatory selection procedure for that designation the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making1a . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . ____________ 1a oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 .


### the registry may revoke a domain name at its own initiative and without submitting the dispute to any extrajudicial settlement of conflicts , on the following grounds : ### the registry may revoke or suspend a domain name at its own initiative and without submitting the dispute to any extrajudicial settlement of conflicts , on the following grounds only :


### may be registered or reserved only under a second level domain by the member states . these domain names must be limited to broadly - recognised geographical and / or geopolitical terms which affect the member states ' political or territorial organisation . ### may be registered or reserved only at a second level domain by the member states . these domain names must be limited to broadly - recognised geographical and / or geopolitical terms which affect the member states ' political or territorial organisation .


### the commission shall enter into a contract with the designated registry . the contract shall specify the rules , policies and procedures for the provision of services by the registry and the conditions according to which the commission supervises the organisation , administration and management of the . eu tld by the registry . the contract shall be limited in time and renewable and shall include the principles and procedures on the functioning of the . eu tld laid down on the basis of article 11 . ### the commission shall enter into a contract with the designated registry . the contract shall specify the rules , policies and procedures for the provision of services by the registry and the conditions according to which the commission supervises the organisation , administration and management of the . eu tld by the registry . the contract shall be limited in time and renewable and shall include the principles and procedures on the functioning of the . eu tld laid down in this regulation and in particular on the basis of articles 10 and 11 .


### requirements and procedures for registration requests , policy on verification of registrants data and speculative registration of domain names ; ### requirements and procedures for registration requests , including verification of proof of fulfilling the criterion for registration , policy on verification of registrants data and speculative registration of domain names ;


### no later than five years after the date of application of this regulation , and each three years thereafter , the commission shall assess the implementation , effectiveness and functioning of the . eu tld . ### no later than three years after the date of application of this regulation , and each three years thereafter , the commission shall assess the implementation , effectiveness and functioning of the . eu tld .


### the objectives of an instrument for pre - accession are substantially distinct from the general objectives of union external action as this instrument aims to prepare the beneficiaries listed in annex i for future membership of the union and support their accession process . it is therefore essential to have a dedicated instrument in support of enlargement , while ensuring its complementarity with the general objectives of union external action and in particular with the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument . ### the objectives of an instrument for pre - accession are to prepare the beneficiaries listed in annex i for future membership of the union and support their accession process while always taking into account the general objectives of union external action , including respect for fundamental rights and principles as well as the protection and promotion of human rights , democracy and the rule of law as laid down in article 21 of the treaty on european union . while the distinct nature of the accession process warrants a dedicated instrument in support of enlargement , the objectives and functioning of this instrument shall be in coherence with and complementary to the general objectives of union external action and in particular with the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument .


### the enlargement policy of the union is an investment in peace , security and stability in europe . it provides increased economic and trade opportunities to the mutual benefit of the union and the aspiring member states . the prospect of union membership has a powerful transformative effect , embedding positive democratic , political , economic and societal change . ### enlargement policy of the union is an integral part of the union ' s external action and also contributes to peace , security and stability both within and outside the union ' s borders . it provides increased economic and trade opportunities to the mutual benefit of the union and the aspiring member states . the prospect of union membership has a powerful transformative effect , embedding positive democratic , political , economic and societal change .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the international agreements concluded by the union , including with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , including those of minorities and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 .


### it is essential to further step up cooperation on migration including border management , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , enhancing border control and pursuing our effort in the fight against irregular migration , trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling . ### cooperation on migration including border management , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , enhancing border control and efforts to prevent and discourage irregular migration , the fight against trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling are an important aspect of cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i .


### strengthening the rule of law , including the fight against corruption and organised crime , and good governance , including public administration reform , remain key challenges in most of the beneficiaries listed in annex i and are essential in order for beneficiaries to come closer to the union and later to fully assume the obligations of union membership . in view of the longer - term nature of the reforms pursued in those areas and the need to build up track records , financial assistance under this regulation should address the requirements placed on the beneficiaries listed in annex i as early as possible . ### strengthening the rule of law , including the independence of the judiciary , fight against corruption and organised crime , and good governance , including public administration reform , remain key challenges in most of the beneficiaries listed in annex i and are essential in order for beneficiaries to come closer to the union and later to fully assume the obligations of union membership . in view of the longer - term nature of the reforms pursued in those areas and the need to build up track records , financial assistance under this regulation should be programmed to address these issues as early as possible .


### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes . ### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , the pursuit of a rules - and values - based global order and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes .


### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , and complementarity of their assistance , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the role of civil society should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance . ### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , consistency and complementarity of all external financing , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the role of civil society , including independent civil society and non - governmental organisations and relevant individuals should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance .


### the priorities for action towards meeting objectives in the relevant policy areas which will be supported under this regulation should be defined in a programming framework established by the commission for the duration of the union multiannual financial framework for the period from 2021 to 2027 in partnership with the beneficiaries listed in annex i , based on the enlargement agenda and their specific needs , in line with the general and specific objectives defined by this regulation and taking relevant national strategies into due account . the programming framework should identify the areas to be supported through assistance with an indicative allocation per area of support , including an estimate of climate - related expenditure . ### specific and measurable objectives in the relevant policy areas should be defined for each beneficiary , followed up by priorities for action towards meeting these objectives in a programming framework established by the commission by means of a delegated act . the programming framework should be established in partnership with the beneficiaries listed in annex i , based on the enlargement agenda and their specific needs , in line with the general and specific objectives defined by this regulation , the principles of union external action , taking relevant national strategies , european parliament resolutions , delegations and monitoring groups into due account . the programming framework should be reviewed and , where needed , adjusted in the mid - term period of the union multiannual financial framework for the period from 2021 to 2027 . the programming framework should identify the areas to be supported through assistance with an indicative allocation per area of support , including an estimate of climate - related expenditure .


### it is in the union ' s interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts to reform with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . ### it is in the union ' s and the beneficiaries ' interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts implement political , economic and legal reforms with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on rights and principles and include a performance based approach including positive and negative incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance , respect for human rights , democracy and the rule of law and progress towards meeting the membership criteria .


### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes . this includes , where relevant , coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance . ### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence , consistency and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes . this includes , where relevant , coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance .


### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes . this includes , where relevant , coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance . ### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes , trade relations between the union and the beneficiaries in annex i in particular . this includes , where relevant , coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . ### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver effective results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation .


### external actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring a continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges such as human rights , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment and irregular migration and its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes . to increase the ability of the union to respond to unforeseen needs , while respecting the principle that the union budget is set annually , this regulation should preserve the possibility to apply the flexibilities already allowed by the financial regulation for other policies , namely carry - overs and re - commitments of committed funds , to ensure an efficient use of the eu funds both for the eu citizens and the beneficiaries listed in annex i , thus maximising the eu funds available for the eu external action interventions . ### external actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring a continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges such as human rights , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment and irregular migration and its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes . to increase the ability of the union to respond to unforeseen needs , while respecting the principle that the union budget is set annually , this regulation should preserve the possibility to apply the flexibilities already allowed by the financial regulation for other policies , namely carry - overs and re - commitments of committed funds while adhering to the goals and objectives laid down in this regulation , to ensure an efficient use of the eu funds both for the eu citizens and the beneficiaries listed in annex i , thus maximising the eu funds available for the eu external action interventions .


### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . ### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty , and promoting the transition from institutional to family and community based care . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality family and community&#160 ; based&#160 ; services , such as inclusive early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems , and the transition from institutions to family - and community - based care .


### the regulatory body may , in exercising its tasks , request relevant information from the competent authorities , terminal operators , applicants for authorisation and any third party involved within the territory of the member state concerned . ### the national competent authority may , in exercising its tasks , request relevant information from the other competent authorities , terminal operators , applicants for authorisation and any third party involved within the territory of the member state concerned .


### information requested shall be supplied within a reasonable period set by the regulatory body and not exceeding one month . in justified cases , the regulatory body may extend the time limit for submission of information by a maximum of two weeks . the regulatory body shall be able to enforce requests for information by means of penalties which are effective , proportionate and dissuasive . ### information requested shall be supplied within a reasonable period set by the national competent authority and not exceeding one month . in justified cases , the national competent authority may extend the time limit for submission of information by a maximum of two weeks . the national competent authority shall be able to enforce requests for information by means of penalties which are effective , proportionate and dissuasive .


### where the regulatory body carries out an economic analysis , it shall inform all interested parties of the results of that analysis and its conclusions within six weeks following receipt of all relevant information . the regulatory body may conclude that the authorisation is to be granted , is to be granted subject to conditions or is to be rejected . ### where the regulatory body carries out an economic analysis , it shall inform all interested parties of the results of that analysis and its conclusions as soon as possible , and no later than 3 months following receipt of all relevant information . the regulatory body may conclude that the authorisation is to be granted , is to be granted subject to conditions or is to be rejected .


### the conditions for making fertilisers available on the internal market have been partially harmonised through regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council15 , which almost exclusively covers fertilisers from mined or chemically produced , inorganic materials . there is also a need to make use of recycled or organic materials for fertilising purposes . harmonised conditions for making fertilisers made from such recycled or organic materials available on the entire internal market should be established in order to provide an important incentive for their further use . the scope of the harmonisation should therefore be extended in order to include recycled and organic materials . __________________ 15 regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 october 2003 relating to fertilisers . ### this regulation should aim to foster the goals of the circular economy and to ensure that farmers have a secure and sustainable supply of highly efficient fertilisers . the conditions for making fertilisers available on the internal market have been partially harmonised through regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council15 , which almost exclusively covers fertilisers from mined or chemically produced , inorganic materials . there is also a need to make use of recycled or organic materials for fertilising purposes . harmonised conditions for making fertilisers made from such recycled or organic materials available on the entire internal market should be established in order to provide an important incentive to promote their further use . this is vital in order to decrease the dependence of the union on imports of nutrients from third countries and contribute to the circular economy . the scope of the harmonisation should therefore be extended in order to include recycled and organic materials . there should be clarity in the use of the term organic and a clear distinction made between organic as defined in council regulation no 834 / 200715a and organic as category of fertiliser which contains mainly organic material , not mineral components . the commission should present the european parliament and the council with a report taking stock of the application of this regulation five years after its entry into force . __________________ 15 regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 october 2003 relating to fertilisers . 15a council regulation no 834 / 2007 of 28 june 2007 on organic production and labelling of organic products .


### for certain recovered wastes within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council20 , a market demand for their use as fertilising products has been identified . furthermore , certain requirements are necessary for the waste used as input in the recovery operation and for the treatment processes and techniques , as well as for fertilising products resulting from the recovery operation , in order to ensure that the use of those products does not lead to overall adverse environmental or human health impacts . for ce marked fertilising products , those requirements should be laid down in this regulation . therefore , as of the moment of compliance with all the requirements of this regulation , such products should cease to be regarded as waste within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . __________________ 20 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on waste and repealing certain directives . ### for certain recovered wastes such as struvite , biochar and ash - based products within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council20 , a market demand for their use as fertilising products has been identified . furthermore , certain requirements are necessary for the waste used as input in the recovery operation and for the treatment processes and techniques , as well as for fertilising products resulting from the recovery operation , in order to ensure that the use of those products does not lead to overall adverse environmental or human health impacts . for ce marked fertilising products , those requirements should be laid down in this regulation . therefore , as of the moment of compliance with all the requirements of this regulation , such products should cease to be regarded as waste , within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec , and accordingly it should be possible for products containing or consisting of such recovered waste materials to access the internal market . to ensure legal clarity and to further stimulate the incentive among producers to make more use of valuable waste streams , the scientific analyses and the setting of process requirements on union level for such products should start immediately after the entry into force of this regulation . accordingly , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of defining , without unnecessary delay , larger or additional categories of component materials eligible for the use in the production of ce marked fertilising products such as struvite , biochar and ash - based products . __________________ 20 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on waste and repealing certain directives .


### this regulation should not prevent the application of existing union legislation relating to aspects of protection of health , safety and the environment not covered by this regulation . this regulation should therefore apply without prejudice to council directive 86 / 278 / eec22 , council directive 89 / 391 / eec23 , regulation no 1907 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council24 , regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council25 , commission regulation no 1881 / 200626 , council directive 2000 / 29 / ec27 , regulation no 98 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council28 , and regulation no 1143 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council29 . __________________ 22 council directive 86 / 278 / eec of 12 june 1986 on the protection of the environment , and in particular of the soil , when sewage sludge is used in agriculture . 23 council directive 89 / 391 / eec of 12 june 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work . 24 regulation no 1907 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 concerning the registration , evaluation , authorisation and restriction of chemicals . 25 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures . 26 commission regulation no 1881 / 2006 of 19 december 2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs . 27 council directive 2000 / 29 / ec of 8 may 2000 on protective measures against the introduction into the community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the community . 28 regulation no 98 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 january 2013 on the marketing and use of explosives precursors . 29 regulation no 1143 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species . ### this regulation should not prevent the application of existing union legislation relating to aspects of protection of health , safety and the environment not covered by this regulation . this regulation should therefore apply without prejudice to council directive 86 / 278 / eec22 , council directive 91 / 676 / eec22a , council directive 2000 / 60 / ec 22b , council directive 89 / 391 / eec23 , regulation no 1907 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council24 , regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council25 , commission regulation no 1881 / 200626 , council directive 2000 / 29 / ec27 , regulation no 98 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council28 , and regulation no 1143 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council29 and council regulation no 834 / 2007 29a . __________________ 22 council directive 86 / 278 / eec of 12 june 1986 on the protection of the environment , and in particular of the soil , when sewage sludge is used in agriculture . 22a council directive 91 / 676 / eec of 12 december 1991 concerning the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources . 22b 22b directive 2000 / 60 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 23 october 2000 establishing a framework for community action in the field of water policy . 23 council directive 89 / 391 / eec of 12 june 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work . 24 regulation no 1907 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 concerning the registration , evaluation , authorisation and restriction of chemicals . 25 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures . 26 commission regulation no 1881 / 2006 of 19 december 2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs . 27 council directive 2000 / 29 / ec of 8 may 2000 on protective measures against the introduction into the community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the community . 28 regulation no 98 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 january 2013 on the marketing and use of explosives precursors . 29 regulation no 1143 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species . 29a council regulation no 834 / 2007 of 28 june 2007 on organic production and labelling of organic products


### where harmonised standards have not been adopted , or do not with sufficient detail cover all elements of the quality and safety requirements laid down in this regulation , uniform conditions for implementing those requirements may be needed . the commission should therefore be empowered to adopt implementing acts setting out those conditions in common specifications . for reasons of legal certainty , it should be clarified that ce marked fertilising products must comply with such specifications even if they are considered to be in conformity with harmonised standards . ### where harmonised standards have not been adopted , or do not with sufficient detail cover all elements of the quality and safety requirements laid down in this regulation , and where there are undue delays in the process of adopting or updating standards to reflect those requirements , interim measures may be needed to lay down uniform conditions for implementing those requirements . the commission should therefore be empowered to adopt implementing acts setting out those conditions in common specifications . for reasons of legal certainty , it should be clarified that ce marked fertilising products must comply with such specifications even if they are considered to be in conformity with harmonised standards .


### promising technical progress is being made in the field of recycling of waste , such as phosphorus recycling from sewage sludge , and fertilising product production from animal by - products , such as biochar . it should be possible for products containing or consisting of such materials to access the internal market without unnecessary delay when the manufacturing processes have been scientifically analysed and process requirements have been established at union level . for that purpose , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of defining larger or additional categories of ce marked fertilising products or component materials eligible for use in the production of such products . for animal by - products , component material categories should be expanded or added only to the extent an end point in the manufacturing chain has been determined in accordance with the procedures laid down in regulation no 1069 / 2009 , since animal by - products for which no such end point has been determined are in any event excluded from the scope of this regulation . ### promising technical progress is being made in the field of recycling of waste , such as phosphorus recycling from sewage sludge , in particular struvite , fertilising product production from animal by - products , such as biochar , and phosphorus recovery after incineration , in particular ash - based products . therefore , it should be possible for products containing or consisting of such materials to access the internal market when the manufacturing processes have been scientifically analysed and process requirements have been established at union level . for that purpose , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of defining larger or additional categories of ce marked fertilising products or component materials eligible for use in the production of such products . the first of those delegated acts should , in particular , add struvite , biochar and ash - based products to the categories of component materials and should be adopted as soon as possible after the entry into force of this regulation . for animal by - products , component material categories should be expanded or added only to the extent an end point in the manufacturing chain has been determined in accordance with the procedures laid down in regulation no 1069 / 2009 , since animal by - products for which no such end point has been determined are in any event excluded from the scope of this regulation .


### manufacturers shall indicate their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted on the packaging of the ce marked fertilising product or , where the fertilising product is supplied without packaging , in a document accompanying the fertilising product . the postal address shall indicate a single point at which the manufacturer can be contacted . the contact details shall be in a language easily understood by end - users and market surveillance authorities . ### manufacturers shall indicate their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted on the packaging of the ce marked fertilising product or , where the fertilising product is supplied without packaging , in a document accompanying the fertilising product . the postal address shall indicate a single point at which the manufacturer can be contacted .


### a ce marked fertilising product that has undergone a recovery operation and complies with the requirements laid down in this regulation shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste . ### where a material that was waste has undergone a recovery operation in accordance with this regulation and a compliant ce marked product contains or consists of that material , the material shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste from the moment the eu declaration of conformity is drawn up .


### a ce marked fertilising product that has undergone a recovery operation and complies with the requirements laid down in this regulation shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste . ### where a material that was waste has undergone a recovery operation in accordance with this regulation and a compliant ce marked fertilising product contains or consists of that material , the material shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste from the moment the eu declaration of conformity is drawn up .


### which are likely to be subject of significant trade on the internal market , and ### which have the potential to be subject to trade on the internal market , and


### for which there is scientific evidence that the they do not present an unacceptable risk to human , animal or plant health , to safety or to the environment , and that they are sufficiently effective . ### for which there is scientific evidence that they are effective , and do not present a risk to human , animal or plant health , to safety or to the environment .


### a plant biostimulant shall be a ce marked fertilising product stimulating plant nutrition processes independently of the product ' s nutrient content with the sole aim of improving one or more of the following characteristics of the plant : ### a plant biostimulant shall be a ce marked fertilising product stimulating plant nutrition processes independently of the product ' s nutrient content with the sole aim of improving one or more of the following characteristics of the plant and the plant rhizophere or phyllosphere :


### of solely biological origin , excluding material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations . ### of solely biological origin , excluding material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations , with the exemption of leonardite , lignite and peat .


### of solely biological origin , excluding material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations . ### of solely biological origin , including leonardite , lignite , and peat , but excluding other material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations .


### an organic soil improver shall consist exclusively of material of solely biological origin , excluding material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations . ### an organic soil improver shall consist exclusively of material of solely biological origin , excluding material which is fossilized or embedded in geological formations , with the exemption of leonardite , lignite and peat .


### - as of [ publications office , please insert the date occurring twelve years after the date of application of this regulation ] : 20 mg / kg phosphorus pentoxide , ### - as of [ publications office , please insert the date occurring nine years after the date of application of this regulation ] : 20 mg / kg phosphorus pentoxide ,


### a straight solid inorganic macronutrient fertiliser shall have a declared content of not more than one nutrient . ### a straight solid inorganic macronutrient fertiliser shall have a declared content of not more than one primary or secondary nutrient . straight solid mineral primary nutrients can have also secondary nutrients .


### the plant biostimulant shall have the effects that are claimed on the label for the crops specified thereon . ### the plant biostimulant shall have the effects that are claimed on the label for the plant specified thereon .


### a microbial plant biostimulant shall consist solely of a micro - organism or a consortium of micro - organisms referred to in component material category 7 of annex ii . ### a microbial plant biostimulant shall consist : of a micro - organism or a consortium of microorganisms referred to in component material category 7 of annex ii ; of microorganisms or a consortium of microorganisms different from those provided under point . they can be used as component material categories as long as they comply with the requirements set out in the component material category 7 of annex ii .


### by - products within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec , ### by - products within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec , except by - products registered pursuant to regulation no 1907 / 2006 other than those covered by one of the registration obligation exemptions provided for by point 5 of annex v to that regulation ,


### animal by - products of categories 2 and 3 according to regulation no 1069 / 2009 ; ### products derived from animal by - products referred to in article 32 of regulation no 1069 / 2009 for which the end point in the manufacturing chain has been reached in accordance with article 5of that regulation ;


### - which only processes input materials referred to in paragraph 1 above , and ### - in which production lines for the processing of input materials referred to in paragraph 1 above are clearly separated from production lines for the processing of input materials other than referred to in paragraph 1 , and


### - 25% relative deviation of the declared value at any time in the distribution chain ### - 15% relative deviation of the declared value at any time in the distribution chain


### forms of the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria ph organic carbon total nitrogen total phosphorus pentoxide total potassium oxide dry matter quantity carbon org / nitrogen org granulometry forms of the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria ph organic carbon total nitrogen total phosphorus pentoxide total potassium oxide dry matter quantity carbon org / nitrogen org granulometry ### permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 1 , 0 at any time in the distribution chain ± 10% relative deviation of the declared value up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage points in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 10% relative deviation of the declared value - 5% relative deviation of the declared value at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation of the declared value at any time in the distribution chain ± 20% relative deviation of the declared value up to a maximum of 2 , 0 percentage points in absolute terms ± 10 % relative deviation applicable to the declared percentage of material passing a specific sieve . permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 1 , 0 at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 10% relative deviation of the declared value up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage points in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 20% relative deviation up to a maximum of 1 , 0 percentage point in absolute terms ± 10% relative deviation of the declared value - 5% relative deviation of the declared value at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation of the declared value at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 20% relative deviation of the declared value up to a maximum of 2 , 0 percentage points in absolute terms ± 10 % relative deviation applicable to the declared percentage of material passing a specific sieve .


### forms for the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria electric conductivity ph quantity by volume quantity determination of materials with particle size greater than 60 mm quantity determination of pre - shaped gm water - soluble nitrogen water - soluble phosphorus pentoxide water - soluble potassium oxide forms for the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria electric conductivity ph quantity by volume quantity determination of materials with particle size greater than 60 mm quantity determination of pre - shaped gm water - soluble nitrogen water - soluble phosphorus pentoxide water - soluble potassium oxide ### permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 1 , 0 at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 60% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 0 , 9 at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 15% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 15% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 15% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 60% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 60% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 60% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain


### forms of the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria electric conductivity ph quantity by volume quantity determination of materials with particle size greater than 60 mm quantity determination of pre - shaped gm water - soluble nitrogen water - soluble phosphorus pentoxide water - soluble potassium oxide forms of the declared nutrient and other declared quality criteria electric conductivity ph quantity by volume quantity determination of materials with particle size greater than 60 mm quantity determination of pre - shaped gm water - soluble nitrogen water - soluble phosphorus pentoxide water - soluble potassium oxide ### permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 1 , 0 at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the distribution chain permissible tolerances for the declared parameter ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 0 , 7 at the time of manufacture ± 1 , 0 at any time in the manufacturing chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain - 5% relative deviation at the time of manufacture - 25% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain ± 50% relative deviation at the time of manufacture ± 75% relative deviation at any time in the manufacturing chain


### the efsd + should aim at supporting investments as a means of contributing to the achievement of the sustainable development goals by fostering sustainable and inclusive economic and social development and promoting the socio - economic resilience in partner countries with a particular focus on the eradication of poverty , sustainable and inclusive growth , the creation of decent jobs , economic opportunities , skills and entrepreneurship , socioeconomic sectors , micro , small and medium - sized enterprises as well as addressing specific socioeconomic root causes of irregular migration , in accordance with the relevant indicative programming documents . special attention should be given to countries identified as experiencing fragility or conflict , least developed countries and heavily indebted poor countries . ### the efsd + should aim at supporting investments as a means of contributing to the achievement of the sustainable development goals by fostering sustainable and inclusive economic and social development and a stabile investments environment , promoting the socio - economic resilience in partner countries with a particular focus on the eradication of poverty , sustainable and inclusive growth , the creation of decent jobs , economic opportunities for all members of society , and in particular young people , skills and entrepreneurship , socioeconomic sectors , micro , small and medium - sized enterprises as well as addressing specific socioeconomic root causes of irregular migration , in accordance with the relevant indicative programming documents . special attention should be given to countries identified as experiencing fragility or conflict , least developed countries and heavily indebted poor countries .


### external actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges to human rights , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment , oceans , and the migration crisis and its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes . to increase the ability of the eu to respond to unforeseen needs , building on the successful experience of the european development fund , an amount should be left unallocated as an emerging challenges and priorities cushion . it should be mobilised in accordance with the procedures established in this regulation . ### external actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges to human rights , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment , oceans , and the migration crisis and its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes . to increase the ability of the eu to respond to unforeseen needs , building on the successful experience of the european development fund , an amount should be left unallocated as an emerging challenges , emergencies and priorities cushion . it should be mobilised in accordance with the procedures established in this regulation .


### geographic programmes may cover all third countries , except for candidates and potential candidates as defined in regulation no … / … . 80 and overseas countries and territories as defined in council decision … / … . _________________ 80 regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing the instrument for pre - accession assistance . ### geographic programmes may cover all third countries , except for overseas countries and territories as defined in council decision … / … .


### the emerging challenges and priorities cushion of an amount of eur 10 200 million shall increase the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 in accordance with article 15 . ### the emerging challenges , emergencies and priorities cushion of an amount of eur 10 200 million shall increase the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 in accordance with article 15 .


### emerging challenges and priorities cushion ### emerging challenges , emergencies and priorities cushion


### to address new needs or emerging challenges , such as those at the union’s or its neighbours’ borders linked to crisis and post - crisis situations or migratory pressure ; ### to address new needs , emerging challenges , or emergency situations such as those at the union’s or its neighbours’ borders linked to crisis and post - crisis situations or migratory pressure ;