### in the absence of harmonised union rules on sustainability - related disclosures to end - investors , it is likely that diverging measures will continue to be adopted at national level and different approaches in different financial services sectors might persist . such divergent measures and approaches would continue to cause significant distortions of competition resulting from significant differences in disclosure standards . in addition , a parallel development of market - based practices , based on commercially - driven priorities that produce divergent results currently causes further market fragmentation and might even further exacerbate the functioning of the internal market in the future . divergent disclosure standards and market - based practices make it very difficult to compare between different financial products and services and create an uneven playing field between these products and services and between distribution channels , and erect additional barriers to the internal market . such divergences can also be confusing for end - investors and can distort their investment decisions . in ensuring compliance with the paris climate agreement , member states are likely to adopt divergent national measures which could create obstacles to the smooth functioning of the internal market and be detrimental to financial market participants and financial advisors . in addition , the lack of harmonised rules relating to transparency makes it difficult for end - investors to effectively compare different financial products and services in different member states as to their environmental , social and governance risks and sustainable investment targets . it is therefore necessary to address existing to the functioning of the internal market and to prevent likely future obstacles . ### in the absence of harmonised union rules on sustainability - related disclosures to end - investors , it is likely that diverging measures will continue to be adopted at national level and different approaches in different financial services sectors might persist . it may be considered that such divergent measures and approaches would continue to cause significant distortions of competition resulting from significant differences in disclosure standards . in addition , a parallel development of market - based practices , based on commercially - driven priorities that produce divergent results currently causes further market fragmentation and might even further exacerbate the functioning of the internal market in the future . divergent disclosure standards and market - based practices make it very difficult to compare between different financial products and services and create an uneven playing field between these products and services and between distribution channels , and erect additional barriers to the internal market . such divergences can also be confusing for end - investors and can distort their investment decisions . in ensuring compliance with the paris climate agreement , member states are likely to adopt divergent national measures which could create obstacles to the smooth functioning of the internal market and be detrimental to financial market participants and financial advisors . in addition , the lack of harmonised rules relating to transparency makes it difficult for end - investors to effectively compare different financial products and services in different member states as to their environmental , social and governance risks and sustainable investment targets . it is therefore necessary to address existing to the functioning of the internal market and to prevent likely future obstacles .


### to ensure a coherent application of this regulation and that the disclosure obligations laid down in this regulation are clearly and consistently applied by financial market participants , it is necessary to lay down a harmonised definition of ‘ sustainable investments’ . ### to ensure a coherent application of this regulation and that the disclosure obligations laid down in this regulation are clearly and consistently applied by financial market participants , it is necessary , as far as possible , to lay down a harmonised definition of ‘ sustainable investments’ .


### whereas : the european union is built on solidarity , among its citizens and among its member states . this common value guides its actions and provides the necessary unity to cope with current and future societal challenges , which young europeans are willing to help address by expressing their solidarity in practice . ### whereas : the european union is built on solidarity , among its citizens and among its member states . this common value guides its actions and provides the necessary unity to cope with current and future societal challenges , which young europeans are willing to help address by actively expressing their solidarity in practice .


### the solidarity activities offered to young people should be of high quality , in the sense that they should respond to unmet societal needs , contribute to strengthening communities , offer young people the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge and competences , be financially accessible to young people , and be implemented in safe and healthy conditions . ### the solidarity activities offered to young europeans people should be of high quality , in the sense that they should respond to unmet societal needs , contribute to strengthening european communities , offer young europeans the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge and competences , be financially accessible to young europeans , and be implemented in safe and healthy conditions .


### the european solidarity corps provides a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the union and beyond . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . the european solidarity corps is built on the strengths and synergies of predecessor and existing programmes , notably the european voluntary service19and the eu aid volunteers20 . it also complements the efforts made by member states to support young people and ease their school - to - work transition under the youth guarantee by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity - related areas within their respective member state or across borders . complementarity with existing union level networks pertinent to the activities under the european solidarity corps , such as the european network of public employment services , eures and the eurodesk network , are also ensured . furthermore , complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices where appropriate . _________________ 19regulation no 1288 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing ' erasmus + ' : the union programme for education , training , youth and sport and repealing decisions no 1719 / 2006 / ec , no 1720 / 2006 / ec and no 1298 / 2008 / ec . 20 regulation no 375 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 establishing the european voluntary humanitarian aid corps . ### the european solidarity corps provides a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the union . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . the european solidarity corps is built on the strengths and synergies of predecessor and existing programmes , notably the european voluntary service19 . it also complements the efforts made by member states to support young europeans and ease their school - to - work transition under the youth guarantee by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity - related areas within their respective member state or in another member state . complementarity with existing union level networks pertinent to the activities under the european solidarity corps , such as the european network of public employment services , eures and the eurodesk network , are also ensured . furthermore , complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young europeans , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices where appropriate . _________________ 19regulation no 1288 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing ' erasmus + ' : the union programme for education , training , youth and sport and repealing decisions no 1719 / 2006 / ec , no 1720 / 2006 / ec and no 1298 / 2008 / ec .


### the european solidarity corps opens up new opportunities for young people to carry out volunteering , traineeship or job activities in solidarity - related areas as well as to devise and develop solidarity projects based on their own initiative . these opportunities contribute to enhancing their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development . the european solidarity corps also supports networking activities for european solidarity corps participants and organisations as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes . it will thus also contribute to european cooperation relevant to young people and raising awareness of its positive impact . ### the european solidarity corps opens up new opportunities for young europeans to carry out volunteering , traineeship or job activities in solidarity - related areas as well as to devise and develop solidarity projects based on their own initiative . these opportunities contribute to enhancing their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development . the european solidarity corps also supports networking activities for young europeans and organisations participating in it , as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes . it will thus also contribute to european cooperation relevant to young europeans and raising awareness of its positive impact .


### these activities should be to the benefit of communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of volunteering , traineeships and jobs , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship – in particular social entrepreneurship – , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity . ### these activities should be to the benefit of local european communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of volunteering , traineeships and jobs , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship – in particular social entrepreneurship – , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity , culture , restoration of the heritage , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , particularly for people with disabilities or older persons , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity .


### young people’s spirit of initiative is an important asset for society and for the labour market . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young people the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to try out ideas and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions . they also serve as a springboard for further engagement in solidarity activities and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to engage in self - employment or setting up associations , non - governmental organisations or other bodies active in the solidarity , non - profit and youth sectors . ### young europeans’ spirit of initiative is an important asset for society and for the labour market . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young europeans the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to try out ideas or to adapt existing ideas and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions as close to their home as possible , thus implementing the principle of subsidiarity . they also serve as a springboard and framework for social engagement , particularly in solidarity activities , and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to engage in self - employment or setting up associations , non - governmental organisations or other bodies active in the solidarity , non - profit and youth sectors , at the same time providing opportunities to make their initiatives longer - lived .


### young people and organisations participating in the european solidarity corps should feel that they belong to a community of individuals and entities committed to enhancing solidarity across europe . at the same time , participating organisations need support to strengthen their capacities to offer good quality activities to an increasing number of participants . the european solidarity corps supports networking activities aimed at strengthening young people and participating organisations’ engagement in this community , at fostering a european solidarity corps spirit , as well as at encouraging the exchange of useful practices and experience . these activities also contribute to raising awareness about the european solidarity corps among public and private actors as well as to collect feedback from participants and participating organisations on the implementation of the european solidarity corps . ### young europeans and organisations participating in the european solidarity corps should feel that they belong to a community of individuals and entities committed to enhancing solidarity across europe . at the same time , participating organisations need support to strengthen their capacities to offer good quality activities to an increasing number of participants . the european solidarity corps supports networking activities aimed at strengthening young europeans’ and participating organisations’ engagement in this community , at fostering a european solidarity corps spirit , as well as at encouraging the exchange of useful practices and experience . these activities also contribute to raising awareness about the european solidarity corps among public and private actors as well as to collect feedback from participants and participating organisations on the implementation of the european solidarity corps .


### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality of the activities and other opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering training , language support , insurance , administrative and post - activity support to participants as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts . ### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality of the activities and other opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering training , language support upstream and on the ground , insurance , administrative and post - activity support to participants as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts .


### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps and to provide a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future . ### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed and available in all official languages of the european union in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps and to provide a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future .


### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union . ### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young europeans , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young europeans , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps .


### in line with the commission ' s communication on ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the union ' s outermost regions’31 , the programme should take into account the specific situation of these regions . measures will be taken to increase the outermost regions ' participation in all actions . such measures will be monitored regularly and evaluated . _________________ 31communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the european investment bank on a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions 623 final ) . ### in line with the commission ' s communication on ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the union ' s outermost regions’31 , the programme should take into account the specific situation of these regions . measures will be taken to increase the outermost regions ' participation in all actions , both as sending regions and as host regions . such measures will be monitored regularly and evaluated . _________________ 31communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the european investment bank on a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions 623 final ) .


### the general objective of the programme is to enhance the engagement of young people and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote social inclusion . ### the general objective of the programme is to enhance the engagement of young europeans and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote the resilience of communities .


### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market . ### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young citizens of the member states , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in the member states while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market .


### actions implemented under the strand ' participation of young people in solidarity activities addressing societal challenges ' shall in particular contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , while also responding to societal challenges with particular effort to promote social inclusion . ### actions implemented under the strand ' participation of young europeans in solidarity activities addressing societal challenges ' shall in particular contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union , while also responding to societal challenges with particular effort to promote social inclusion .


### for certain single - use plastic products , suitable and more sustainable alternatives are not yet readily available and the consumption of most such single - use plastic products is expected to increase . to reverse that trend and promote efforts towards more sustainable solutions member states should be required to take the necessary measures to achieve a significant reduction in the consumption of those products , without compromising food hygiene or food safety , good hygiene practices , good manufacturing practices , consumer information , or traceability requirements set out in union food legislation44 . __________________ 44 regulation 178 / 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , regulation no 852 / 2004 on the hygiene of foodstuffs , regulation no 1935 / 2004 on materials intended to come into contact and other relevant legislation related to food safety , hygiene and labeling . ### for certain single - use plastic products , suitable and more sustainable alternatives are not yet readily available and the consumption of most such single - use plastic products is expected to increase . to improve the recycling of single used products and promote efforts towards more sustainable solutions member states should be required to take the necessary measures to achieve a significant reduction in the consumption of those products , as is being done for plastic bags under directive 94 / 62 / ec , as amended by directive 2015 / 72043a , without compromising food hygiene or food safety , good hygiene practices , good manufacturing practices , consumer information , or traceability requirements set out in union food legislation44 . __________________ 43a directive 94 / 62 / ec of 20 december 1994 on packaging and packaging waste , oj l 365 , 31 . 12 . 1994 , p . 10–23 44 regulation 178 / 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , regulation no 852 / 2004 on the hygiene of foodstuffs , regulation no 1935 / 2004 on materials intended to come into contact and other relevant legislation related to food safety , hygiene and labeling .


### the large portion of plastic stemming from abandoned , lost and discarded fishing gear containing plastic in marine litter indicates that the existing legal requirements46 do not provide sufficient incentives to return such fishing gear to shore for collection and treatment . the indirect fee system envisaged under union law on port reception facilities for the delivery of waste from ships takes away the incentive for ships to discharge their waste at sea , and ensures a right of delivery . that system should , however , be supplemented by further financial incentives for fishermen to bring their fishing gear waste on shore to avoid any potential increase in the indirect waste fee to be paid . as plastic components of fishing gear have a high recycling potential , member states should , in line with the polluter pays principle , introduce extended producer responsibility for fishing gear containing plastic to facilitate separate collection of waste fishing gear and to finance sound waste management of such fishing gear , in particular recycling . __________________ 46 council regulation no 1224 / 2009 , directive 2000 / 59 / ec and directive 2008 / 98 / ec . ### the large portion of plastic stemming from abandoned , lost and discarded fishing gear containing plastic in marine litter indicates that the existing legal requirements46 do not provide sufficient incentives to return such fishing gear to shore for collection and treatment . the indirect fee system envisaged under union law on port reception facilities for the delivery of waste from ships takes away the incentive for ships to discharge their waste at sea , and ensures a right of delivery . that system should , therefore , be abolished and member states should come up with a reasonable and incentive strategy to promote the recycling of fishing gear and to finance sound waste management of such fishing gear . __________________ 46 council regulation no 1224 / 2009 , directive 2000 / 59 / ec and directive 2008 / 98 / ec .


### in order to prevent littering and other inappropriate forms of disposal resulting in marine litter containing plastic , consumers need to be properly informed about the most appropriate waste disposal options available and / or waste disposal options to be avoided , best practices with regard to waste disposal and the environmental impact of bad disposal practices as well as about the plastic content in certain single - use plastic products and fishing gear . therefore , member states should be required to take awareness raising measures ensuring that such information is given to the consumers . the information should not contain any promotional content encouraging the use of the single - use plastic products . member states should be able to choose the measures which are most appropriate based on the nature of the product or its use . producers of single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic should cover the costs of the awareness raising measures as part of their extended producer responsibility obligation . ### in order to prevent littering and other inappropriate forms of disposal resulting in marine litter containing plastic , consumers need to be properly informed about the most appropriate waste disposal options available and / or waste disposal options to be avoided , best practices with regard to waste disposal and the environmental impact of bad disposal practices as well as about the plastic content in certain single - use plastic products and fishing gear . therefore , member states should be required to take awareness raising measures ensuring that such information is given to the consumers . member states should be able to choose the measures which are most appropriate based on the regional conditions , the nature of the product or its use . producers of single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic should be part of the awareness raising measures as part of their corporate social responsibility . the costs of the awareness raising measures should be discussed between a government of a member state and a responsible sector .


### the objective of this directive is to prevent and reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment , in particular the aquatic environment , and on human health as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative business models , products and materials , thus also contributing to the efficient functioning of the internal market . ### the objective of this directive is for the union to play its part in solving the global problem of marine litter due to plastic , by preventing and reducing the impact of certain plastic products on the environment , as well as by promoting the transition to a sustainable economic model .


### coordination of measures ### coordination of measures among member states


### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . notes that precision farming is an important tool in increasing yields and productivity while creating a sustainable future for farming .


### reinforcing and spreading excellence ; ### strengthening europe ' s scientific base and reinforcing and spreading excellence ;


### connecting and developing research infrastructures across the european research area ; ### connecting , developing and facilitating wide access to research infrastructures across the european research area ;


### reinforcing the link between research and innovation and other policies , including sustainable development goals ; ### reinforcing the link between research , innovation and education , and other policies , including sustainable development goals ;


### improving skills for innovation ; ### improving skills for research and innovation ;


### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following : ### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives , stakeholders and academic experts from different disciplines . each mission board should be established following an open call for nominations or for expressions of interest . the mission board shall advise upon the following :


### the eic board shall be composed of 15 to 20 high level individuals drawn from various parts of europe ' s innovation ecosystem , including entrepreneurs , corporate leaders , investors and researchers . it shall contribute to outreach actions , with eic board members striving to enhance the prestige of the eic brand . ### the eic board shall be composed of 15 to 20 high level individuals drawn from various parts of europe ' s innovation ecosystem , including entrepreneurs , corporate leaders , investors , academic experts and researchers . it shall contribute to outreach actions , with eic board members striving to enhance the prestige of the eic brand .


### it will include extensive consultations and exchanges with member states , the european parliament as appropriate , and with various stakeholders about priorities , including missions , under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , and the suitable types of action to use , in particular european partnerships . ### it will include extensive consultations and exchanges with member states , the european parliament as appropriate , and with various stakeholders , including the private sector , about priorities , including missions , under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , and the suitable types of action to use , in particular european partnerships .


### research funded by the erc is expected to lead to advances at the frontier of knowledge , with scientific publications of the highest quality , to research results with high societal and economic potential impact and with the erc setting a clear and inspirational target for frontier research across the eu , europe and internationally . aiming to make the eu a more attractive environment for the world ' s best scientists , the erc will target a measurable improvement in the eu ' s share of the world ' s top 1 % most highly cited publications , and aim at a substantial increase in the number of excellent researchers from outside europe which it funds . erc funding shall be awarded in accordance with the following well - established principles . scientific excellence shall be the sole criterion on which erc grants are awarded . the erc shall operate on a ' bottom - up ' basis without predetermined priorities . ### research funded by the erc is expected to lead to advances at the frontier of knowledge , with scientific publications of the highest quality , to research results with high societal and economic potential impact and with the erc setting a clear and inspirational target for frontier research across the eu , europe and internationally . aiming to make the eu a more attractive environment for the world ' s best scientists , the erc will target a measurable improvement in the eu ' s share of the world ' s top 1 % most highly cited publications , and aim at a substantial increase in the number of excellent researchers from outside europe which it funds . erc funding shall be awarded in accordance with the following well - established principles . scientific excellence shall be the sole criterion on which erc grants are awarded . the erc shall operate on a ' bottom - up ' basis without predetermined priorities . there should be a balance of fundamental , applied and transnational research and development to ensure efficient , fast translation of new discoveries into actual technologies and commercial products .


### many of the challenges which confront the eu are also global challenges . the scale and complexity of the problems are vast , and need to be matched by the appropriate money , resources and effort in order to find solutions . these are precisely the areas where the eu must work together ; smart , flexible and joined - up for the benefit and well - being of our citizens . ### many of the challenges which confront the eu are also global challenges . the scale and complexity of the problems are vast , and need to be matched by the appropriate money , resources and effort in order to find solutions . these are precisely the areas where the eu must work collaboratively and with global partners ; smart , flexible and joined - up for the benefit and well - being of our citizens .


### they will also foster participatory approaches to research and innovation , including the multi - actor approach and develop knowledge and innovation systems at local , regional , national and european levels . social innovation with citizens ' engagement and trust in innovation will be crucial to encourage new governance , production and consumption patterns . ### they will also foster participatory approaches to research and innovation , including the multi - actor approach and develop knowledge and innovation systems at local , regional , national and european levels . social innovation with citizens ' engagement and trust in innovation will be crucial to encourage new governance , production and consumption patterns . through this multi - actor approach they will work towards guaranteeing that all important knowledge is transferred to end - users and will involve farmers and other users of agricultural technologies and products , including small farms in innovative developments .


### activities will contribute directly to the following sustainable development goals in particular : sdg 2 – zero hunger ; sd 6 - clean water and sanitation ; sdg 11 – sustainable cities and communities ; sdg 12 - responsible consumption and production ; sdg 13 – climate action ; sdg 14 – life below water ; sdg 15 - life on land . ### activities will contribute directly to the following sustainable development goals in particular : sdg 2 – zero hunger ; sdg 3 - good health and well - being ; sd 6 - clean water and sanitation ; sdg 11 – sustainable cities and communities ; sdg 12 - responsible consumption and production ; sdg 13 – climate action ; sdg 14 – life below water ; sdg 15 - life on land .


### –plant pests and diseases and animal health and welfare ; alternatives to the use of contentious pesticides , antibiotics and other substances ; ### –plant pests and diseases and animal health and welfare ; alternatives to the use of pesticides , antibiotics and other substances ;


### –land use , rural development and territorial linkages ; capitalising on the social , cultural , economic and environmental assets of rural areas for new services , business models , value chains and public goods ; ### –land use , rural development and territorial linkages ; capitalising on the social , cultural , economic and environmental assets of rural areas for new services , business models , value chains and public goods ; identifying opportunities to support skill development and knowledge transfer in these areas , including by means of training and apprenticeships for young and new entrants .


### –agricultural knowledge and innovation systems and their interconnection at various scales ; advice , building skills and information sharing . ### –agricultural knowledge and innovation systems and their interconnection at various scales ; advice , building skills , information sharing and knowledge transfer , especially to end - users .


### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation . 20 current food production and consumption are largely unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security ### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation . 20 current food production and consumption are largely unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . agricultural technologies , including genetic , mechanical and digital , can provide sustainable solutions across all farming types whether conventional , organic or otherwise . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security


### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation 20 . current food production and consumption are largely unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security ### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation 20 . at the same time , we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . such a transformation must make it possible to re - emphasise the place of farmers in the food chain , and ensure that they receive proper remuneration for the work they do . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security


### –modern food safety and authenticity systems , enhancing consumer confidence in the food system ; ### –modern food safety and authenticity systems , enhancing consumer confidence in the food system ; analysis of the perception of external indications on food by consumers and the impact this has on purchasing choices , as well as studies of the link between the intrinsic qualities of products and their geographical origins ;


### –environmentally sustainable , circular and resource efficient food systems from land and sea , towards zero food waste throughout the entire food system , through reuse of food and biomass , recycling of food waste , new food packaging , demand for tailored and local food ; ### –environmentally sustainable , circular and resource efficient food systems from land and sea , towards zero food waste throughout the entire food system , through reuse of food and biomass , recycling of food waste , new food packaging , demand for tailored and local food , exploring the potential of short supply chains ;


### the use of hired vehicles can reduce the costs of undertakings carrying goods on their own account or for hire and reward and at the same time increase their operational flexibility . it can therefore contribute to an increase in the productivity and competitiveness of the undertakings concerned . moreover , as hired vehicles tend to be younger than the average fleet , they are also safer and less polluting . ### the use of hired vehicles can reduce the costs of undertakings carrying goods on their own account or for hire and reward and at the same time increase their operational flexibility , to the detriment of local companies and drivers in the countries where those vehicles are circulating . it can therefore contribute to an increase in the productivity and competitiveness of the undertakings concerned . moreover , as hired vehicles tend to be younger than the average fleet , they are also safer and less polluting .


### the interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to problems in relations between the participating countries . ### in duly justified cases , where the interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to serious problems in relations between the participating countries ;


### if the commission receives no notice of opposition or no admissible reasoned statement of opposition under article 24 , it shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , registering the name . ### if , further to the checks with the member state responsible referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission receives no notice of opposition or no admissible reasoned statement of opposition under article 24 , it shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , registering the name .


### it is necessary to ensure that ppe entering the union market complies with this regulation and , in particular , that appropriate assessment procedures have been carried out by manufacturers . provision should therefore be made for importers to make sure that the ppe they place on the market complies with the requirements of this regulation and that they do not place on the market ppe which does not comply with such requirements or which present a risk . provision should also be made for importers to make sure that the conformity assessment procedures have been carried out and that the ce marking and technical documentation drawn up by manufacturers are available for inspection by the market surveillance authorities . ### it is necessary to ensure that ppe entering the union market complies with this regulation , with european harmonised standards and , in particular , that appropriate assessment procedures have been carried out by manufacturers . provision should therefore be made for importers to make sure that the ppe they place on the market complies with the requirements of this regulation and that they do not place on the market ppe which does not comply with such requirements or which present a risk . provision should also be made for importers to make sure that the conformity assessment procedures have been carried out and that the ce marking and technical documentation drawn up by manufacturers are available for inspection by the market surveillance authorities .


### equipment intended to be worn or held by a person for protection against one or more risks for his or her health or safety that is placed on the market separately or combined with personal non - protective equipment ; ### equipment intended to be worn or held by a person for protection against one or more risks for his or her health or safety and therefore marked as having a ' protective function ' , that is placed on the market separately or combined with personal non - protective equipment ;


### manufacturers shall indicate , on the ppe , their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted or , where that is not possible , on its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . the 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 , on the ppe , their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted or , where that is not possible , on its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . the address shall indicate a single point at which the manufacturer can be contacted . the contact details shall be in the language or languages of the member state in which the product is to be marketed .


### manufacturers shall indicate , on the ppe , their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted or , where that is not possible , on its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . the 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 , the postal or e - mail address at which they can be contacted on the ppe , its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . the 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 .


### importers shall indicate , on the ppe , their name , registered trade name or registered trade mark and the postal address at which they can be contacted , or where that is not possible , on its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . the contact details shall be in a language easily understood by end - users and market surveillance authorities . ### importers shall indicate their name , postal or e - mail address at which they can be contacted on the ppe , its packaging or in a document accompanying the ppe . importers shall indicate the registered trade name or registered trade mark if different from that of the manufacturer . the contact details shall be in a language easily understood by end - users and market surveillance authorities .


### importers shall , for at least 10 years after the ppe has been placed on the market , keep a copy of the eu declaration of conformity at the disposal of the market surveillance authorities and ensure that the technical documentation can be made available to those authorities , upon request . ### importers shall , for at least 10 years after the ppe has been placed on the market , keep a copy of the eu declaration of conformity at the disposal of the market surveillance authorities and ensure that the technical documentation can be made available to those authorities , upon request . after five years , it shall be sufficient to keep a declaration of conformity in electronic form .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks , which constitute one of the main reasons for the reputation for high - quality production of spirit drinks enjoyed by the european union worldwide , as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices by increasing protection of national production by means , in particular , of protected indications of origin and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation for high quality which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing fraudulent and deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character and quality of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation objectively serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### to ensure a more uniform approach in the legislation on spirit drinks , this regulation should set out clear criteria for the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks as well as for the protection of geographical indications . it should also set out rules on the use of ethyl alcohol or distillates of agricultural origin in the production of alcoholic beverages and on the use of the sales denominations of spirit drinks in the presentation and labelling of foodstuffs . ### to ensure a more uniform approach in the legislation on spirit drinks , this regulation should maintain clear criteria for the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks as well as for the protection of geographical indications . it should also set out rules on the use of ethyl alcohol or distillates of agricultural origin in the production of alcoholic beverages and on the use of the sales denominations of spirit drinks in the presentation and labelling of foodstuffs .


### in some cases , food business operators may be required or may want to indicate the origin of spirit drinks to draw consumers’ attention to the qualities of their product . such origin indications should comply with harmonised criteria . therefore , specific provisions on the indication of the country of origin or place of provenance in the presentation and labelling of spirit drinks should be laid down . ### food business operators should be required to indicate the origin of spirit drinks to render their products traceable and to draw consumers’ attention to their qualities . such origin indications should comply with harmonised criteria . therefore , specific provisions on the indication of the country of origin or place of provenance in the presentation and labelling of spirit drinks should be laid down .


### in some cases , food business operators may be required or may want to indicate the origin of spirit drinks to draw consumers’ attention to the qualities of their product . such origin indications should comply with harmonised criteria . therefore , specific provisions on the indication of the country of origin or place of provenance in the presentation and labelling of spirit drinks should be laid down . ### in some cases , food business operators may be required or may want to indicate the origin of spirit drinks , or any other information concerning , in particular , the agricultural raw material used , to draw consumers’ attention to the qualities of their product . such origin indications should comply with harmonised criteria . therefore , specific provisions on the indication of the country of origin or place of provenance in the presentation and labelling of spirit drinks should be laid down .


### regulation no 1151 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council13 does not apply to spirit drinks . rules on protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks should therefore be laid down . geographical indications identifying spirit drinks as originating in the territory of a country , or a region or locality in that territory , where a given quality , reputation or other characteristic of the spirit drink are essentially attributable to its geographical origin should be registered by the commission . __________________ 13 regulation no 1151 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 21 november 2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs . ### regulation no 1151 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council13 does not apply to spirit drinks . regulation no 110 / 2008 therefore lays down specific rules applicable to protection of protected geographical indications . rules on protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks should therefore be laid down . as a result of this regulation , geographical indications are to be registered using a strictly defined procedure , involving the participation of and dialogue with the national competent authorities of the member states . __________________ 13 regulation no 1151 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 21 november 2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs .


### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established . ### in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established .


### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established . ### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks .


### in applying a quality policy and in order to allow for a high level of quality of spirit drinks and diversity in the spirit drinks sector , member states should be allowed to adopt rules on the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks produced in their territory that are stricter than those laid down in this regulation . ### in applying a quality policy and in order to allow for a high level of quality and for the production of their national products of spirit drinks and diversity in the spirit drinks sector , member states should be allowed to adopt rules on the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks produced in their territory that are stricter than those laid down in this regulation .


### in applying a quality policy and in order to allow for a high level of quality of spirit drinks and diversity in the spirit drinks sector , member states should be allowed to adopt rules on the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks produced in their territory that are stricter than those laid down in this regulation . ### in applying a quality policy and in order to allow for a high level of quality of spirit drinks and diversity in the spirit drinks sector , member states should be allowed to adopt rules on the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks produced in their territory that are stricter than those laid down in this regulation or are adapted to their national situations .


### ‘ geographical indication’ means an indication which identifies a spirit drink as originating in the territory of a country , or a region or locality in that territory , where a given quality , reputation or other characteristic of that spirit drink is essentially attributable to its geographical origin ; ### ‘ geographical indication’ means an indication which identifies a spirit drink as originating in the territory of a country , or a region or locality in that territory , where a given quality or other characteristic of that spirit drink is essentially attributable to its geographical origin ;


### the alcohol used in the production of alcoholic beverages and to dilute or dissolve colours , flavourings or any other authorised additives used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages shall be ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin . ### the alcohol used in the production of alcoholic beverages and to dilute or dissolve colours , flavourings or any other authorised additives used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages shall be ethyl alcohol of exclusively agricultural origin .


### a spirit drink has a significant market share in at least one member state ; ### a spirit drink has an objectively significant share of the market for sprit drinks in at least one member state ;


### the name chosen for the new category shall either be a widely used name or where this is not possible be of a descriptive nature , in particular , by referring to the raw material used for the production of the spirit drink ; ### the name chosen for the new category shall either be a name widely used in the reference member state or where this is not possible be of a descriptive nature , in particular , by referring to the raw material used for the production of the spirit drink ;


### the name chosen for the new category shall either be a widely used name or where this is not possible be of a descriptive nature , in particular , by referring to the raw material used for the production of the spirit drink ; ### the name chosen for the new category shall either be a widely used name or where this is not possible be of a descriptive nature , in particular , by referring to the main agricultural raw material used for the production of the spirit drink ;


### the technical specifications for the new category shall be laid down and based on an evaluation of existing quality and production parameters used on the union market . when laying down the technical specifications , the applicable union consumer protection legislation shall be respected and account shall be taken of any relevant international standards . they shall ensure fair competition amongst union producers as well as the high reputation of union spirit drinks . ### the technical specifications for the new category shall be laid down and based on an evaluation of existing quality and production parameters used on the union market . when laying down the technical specifications , the applicable union consumer protection legislation shall be respected and account shall be taken of any relevant international standards . they shall ensure fair competition amongst union producers as well as the high reputation of union spirit drinks , particularly thanks to the use of traditional production methods which guarantee a high standard of quality of the product concerned .


### the technical specifications for the new category shall be laid down and based on an evaluation of existing quality and production parameters used on the union market . when laying down the technical specifications , the applicable union consumer protection legislation shall be respected and account shall be taken of any relevant international standards . they shall ensure fair competition amongst union producers as well as the high reputation of union spirit drinks . ### the technical specifications for the new category shall be laid down and based on an evaluation of existing quality and production parameters used on the union market . when laying down the technical specifications , the applicable union consumer protection legislation shall be respected and account shall be taken of any relevant international standards and of the requirements of this regulation . they shall ensure fair competition amongst union producers as well as the high reputation of union spirit drinks .


### a maturation period or age may only be specified in the presentation or labelling of a spirit drink where it refers to the youngest alcoholic component and provided that the spirit drink was aged under supervision of the tax authorities of a member state or a supervision affording equivalent guarantees . ### provided that the spirit drink was aged under supervision of the tax authorities of a member state or a supervision affording equivalent guarantees , a maturation period or age may only be specified in the presentation or labelling of a spirit drink where : it refers to the youngest alcoholic component ; or it refers to the oldest alcoholic component , provided that the ageing method used is clearly explained .


### where the origin of a spirit drink is indicated , it shall correspond to the country or territory of origin in accordance with article 60 of regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council16 . __________________ 16 regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 october 2013 laying down the union customs code . ### the origin of a spirit drink shall be indicated and shall correspond to the country or territory of origin in accordance with article 60 of regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council16 . __________________ 16 regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 october 2013 laying down the union customs code .


### the union symbol for the protected geographical indication may be used for the labelling and presentation of spirit drinks . ### the union symbol for the relevant protected geographical indication may be used for the labelling and presentation of spirit drinks covered by that protected indication of origin .


### updating and completing union reference methods for the analysis of spirit drinks . ### updating and completing union reference methods for the analysis of spirit drinks , in the light of technical progress and provided that such updating does not substantively change the reference methods and does not generate additional costs for producers .


### updating and completing union reference methods for the analysis of spirit drinks . ### updating union reference methods for the analysis of spirit drinks .


### by comparable products not complying with the product specification of the protected name ; or ### by comparable products not complying with the product specification and not covered by the registration of the protected name ; or


### the main points of the product specification : the name , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a concise definition of the geographical area ; ### the main points of the product specification : the name , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a concise definition of the geographical area in question ;


### the main points of the product specification : the name , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a concise definition of the geographical area ; ### the main points of the product specification : the name , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a definition of the geographical area ;


### a joint application shall be submitted to the commission by a member state concerned , or by an applicant group in a third country concerned , directly or through the authorities of that third country . it shall include the declaration referred to in point of article 20 from all the member states concerned . the requirements laid down in article 20 shall be fulfilled in all member states and third countries concerned . ### a joint application shall be submitted to the commission by the member states concerned , or by an applicant group in a third country concerned , directly or through the authorities of that third country . it shall include the declaration referred to in point of article 20 from all the member states concerned . the requirements laid down in article 20 shall be fulfilled in all member states and third countries concerned .


### the commission shall , at least each month , make public the list of names for which registration applications have been submitted to it , as well as their date of submission . ### the commission shall , at least each month , make public the list of names for which registration applications have been submitted to it , as well as their date of submission , in particular by publishing the list on a public internet platform which it has set up for that purpose .


### the commission may , on its own initiative or at the request of any natural or legal person having a legitimate interest , adopt implementing acts to cancel the registration of a geographical indication in the following cases : ### the commission may , at the request of the member state concerned – through the latter’s competent authority as referred to in article 40 – or of any natural or legal person having a legitimate interest , adopt implementing acts to cancel the registration of a geographical indication in the following cases :


### the commission shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , establishing and maintaining a publicly accessible updated electronic register of geographical indications of spirit drinks recognised under this scheme . ### the commission shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , establishing and maintaining a publicly accessible updated electronic register of geographical indications of spirit drinks recognised under this scheme , in addition to annex iii to this regulation establishing the official and exhaustive list of such indications in the european union .


### notwithstanding the national legislation of member states , the costs of such verification of compliance with the product specification shall be borne by the food business operators which are subject to those controls . ### the costs of such verification of compliance with the product specification shall , in the absence of provision to the contrary in the law of the reference member state , be borne by the food business operators which are subject to those controls .


### the competent authorities or bodies referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 verifying compliance of the protected geographical indication with the product specification shall be objective and impartial . they shall have at their disposal the qualified staff and resources necessary to carry out their tasks . ### the competent authorities or bodies , referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 , verifying compliance of the protected geographical indication with the product specification shall fulfil conditions set by the member states in question for their accreditation as control and certification bodies ; in particular , they shall be objective and impartial and shall have at their disposal the qualified staff and resources necessary to carry out their tasks .


### in order to ensure that product specifications provide relevant and succinct information , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , laying down rules which limit the information contained in the product specification , where such a limitation is necessary to avoid excessively voluminous applications for registration . ### in order to ensure that product specifications provide relevant and succinct information , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , laying down rules which limit the information contained in the product specification , exclusively where such a limitation is necessary to avoid excessively voluminous applications for registration and where it will not result in certain categories of product being given a competitive advantage at the expense of others .


### in order to facilitate the administrative process of an amendment application , including where the amendment consists in a temporary change of the product specification resulting from the imposition of obligatory sanitary and phytosanitary measures by the public authorities or linked to natural disasters or adverse weather conditions formally recognised by the competent authorities , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , to establish conditions and requirements for the procedure concerning the amendments to be approved both by the member states and by the commission . ### in order to facilitate the administrative process of an amendment application , where the amendment consists in a temporary change of the product specification resulting from the imposition of obligatory sanitary and phytosanitary measures by the public authorities or linked to natural disasters or adverse weather conditions recognised by the competent national authorities , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , to establish conditions and requirements for the procedure concerning the amendments to be approved both by the member states and by the commission .


### in order to prevent the unlawful use of geographical indications , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 concerning the appropriate actions to be implemented by the member states in this respect . ### in order to prevent the unlawful use of geographical indications , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 concerning the appropriate actions to be implemented by the member states in this respect . member states may take additional measures , including measures stricter than those adopted by the commission .


### ‘ distillate of agricultural origin’ means an alcoholic liquid which is obtained by the distillation , after alcoholic fermentation , of agricultural products listed in annex i to the treaty which does not have the properties of ethyl alcohol or of a spirit drink but still retains the aroma and taste of the raw materials used . ### ‘ distillate of agricultural origin’ means the alcoholic liquid which is obtained by the distillation , after alcoholic fermentation , of an agricultural product or products listed in annex i to the treaty which does not have the properties of ethyl alcohol or of a spirit drink but still retains the aroma and taste of the raw material used .


### where reference is made to the raw materials used , the distillate must be obtained exclusively from that raw materials . ### where reference is made to the raw material used , the distillate must be obtained exclusively from that raw material .


### the description , presentation or labelling of vodka not produced exclusively from potatoes or cereals shall bear the indication ‘ produced from . . . ’ , supplemented by the name of the raw materials used to produce the ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin . ### the description , presentation or labelling of vodka not produced exclusively from potatoes or cereals shall bear the indication ‘ produced from . . . ’ , supplemented by the name of the raw materials used to produce the ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin . the labelling shall be in accordance with article 13 of directive 2000 / 13 / ec .


### whistleblower protection is necessary to enhance the enforcement of union law on public procurement . in addition to the need of preventing and detecting fraud and corruption in the context of the implementation of the eu budget , including procurement , it is necessary to tackle insufficient enforcement of rules on public procurement by national public authorities and certain public utility operators when purchasing goods , works and services . breaches of such rules create distortions of competition , increase costs for doing business , violate the interests of investors and shareholders and , overall , lower attractiveness for investment and create an uneven level playing field for all businesses across europe , thus affecting the proper functioning of the internal market . ### whistleblower protection is necessary in particular to enhance the enforcement of union law , especially on human rights , public procurement , product and transport safety , environmental standards , ecocides , public health , health risks and consumer protection , food safety for people and animals , animal health , animal protection and animal welfare , nuclear safety and radiation protection , privacy and personal data , freedom of the press , competition law , financial services and taxation , protection of frail and vulnerable persons and on preventing , detecting and combating fraud , corruption , tax evasion and any other illegal activity in the context of the implementation of the eu budget , including procurement . it is necessary to tackle insufficient enforcement of rules on public procurement by national public authorities and certain public utility operators when purchasing goods , works and services . breaches of such rules create distortions of competition , increase costs for doing business , violate the interests of investors and shareholders and , overall , lower attractiveness for investment and create an uneven level playing field for all businesses across europe , thus affecting the proper functioning of the internal market .


### retaliation expresses the close relationship that must exist between the report and the adverse treatment suffered , directly or indirectly , by the reporting person , so that this person can enjoy legal protection . effective protection of reporting persons as a means of enhancing the enforcement of union law requires a broad definition of retaliation , encompassing any act or omission occurring in the work - related context which causes them detriment . ### retaliation expresses the close relationship that must exist between the report and the adverse treatment suffered , directly or indirectly , by the reporting person , so that this person can enjoy legal protection . effective protection of reporting persons as a means of enhancing the enforcement of union law requires a broad definition of retaliation , encompassing any act or omission occurring in the work - related context which causes them detriment , although this definition is not restrictive or exhaustive .


### a statement clearly explaining that persons making information available to the competent authority in accordance with this directive are not considered to be infringing any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and are not to be involved in liability of any kind related to such disclosure . ### a statement clearly explaining that persons making information available to the competent authority in accordance with this directive are not considered to be infringing any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and are not to be involved in liability of any kind related to such disclosure . this statement does , however , specify three exceptions to this principle that allow member states to safeguard secrets protected under conventional and constitutional principles : secrets of national defence , b ) secrets concerning relations between a lawyer and his / her client , c ) medical confidentiality .


### persons reporting externally to competent authorities or making a public disclosure in accordance with this directive shall not be considered to have breached any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and incur liability of any kind in respect of such disclosure . ### persons reporting externally to competent authorities or making a public disclosure in accordance with this directive shall not be considered to have breached any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and incur liability of any kind in respect of such disclosure . however , three exceptions to this principle do allow member states to safeguard secrets protected under conventional and constitutional principles : secrets of national defence , b ) secrets concerning relations between a lawyer and his / her client , c ) medical confidentiality .


### member states shall provide for effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties applicable to natural or legal persons that : ### member states shall provide for remedies and / or effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties applicable to natural or legal persons that :


### member states may introduce or retain provisions more favourable to the rights of the reporting persons than those set out in this directive , without prejudice to article 16 and article 17 . ### member states may introduce or retain provisions more favourable to the rights of the reporting persons and the persons who are the subject of the report than those set out in this directive , without prejudice to article 16 and article 17 , to ensure member states are able to provide genuine guarantees of confidentiality .


### reuse of appropriately treated waste water , for example from urban waste water treatment plants or industrial installations , is considered to have a lower environmental impact than other alternative water supply methods , such as water transfers or desalination , but such reuse only occurs to a limited extent in the union . this appears to be partly due to the lack of common union environmental or health standards for water reuse , and , as regards in particular agricultural products , the potential obstacles to the free movement of such products irrigated with reclaimed water . ### reuse of appropriately treated waste water , for example from urban waste water treatment plants or industrial installations , is considered to have a lower environmental impact than other alternative water supply methods , such as water transfers or desalination . despite those findings , it seems that such reuse only occurs to a limited extent in the union this appears to be partly due to the lack of common union environmental or health standards for water reuse , and , as regards in particular agricultural products , the potential obstacles to the free movement of such products irrigated with reclaimed water .