### member states shall take the necessary measures , in accordance with their national judicial systems , to ensure that where an unsuccessful candidate of the under - represented sex establishes facts from which it may be presumed that that candidate was equally qualified as the appointed candidate of the other sex , it shall be for the listed company to prove that there has been no breach of the rule laid down in paragraph 3 . ### member states shall take the necessary measures , in accordance with their national judicial systems , to ensure that where an unsuccessful candidate of the under - represented sex establishes facts from which it may be presumed that that candidate was equally qualified as the appointed candidate of the other sex , it shall be for the company to prove that there has been no breach of the rule laid down in paragraph 3 .


### member states may provide that listed companies where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 10 per cent of the workforce are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 . ### member states may provide that listed companies which are not exempted under article 3 and where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 40 per cent of the workforce are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 .


### member states may provide that listed companies where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 10 per cent of the workforce are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 . ### member states may provide that listed companies are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 if they can show that there is a valid reason for not achieving this objective . such reasons may include : where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 10 per cent of the workforce ; b ) where attainment of the objective set out in article 4 would represent a substantial disadvantage for a family business within the meaning of article 2 . this would be the case , for example , where attainment of the objective could lead to family shareholders no longer having a decisive influence on , or being hampered in , the governance of the firm , or when attainment of the objective could lead to individual branches of the family losing , or undergoing a substantial reduction in , their former influence on the governance of the firm .


### member states may provide that listed companies where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 10 per cent of the workforce are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 . ### member states may provide that companies where the members of the under - represented sex represent less than 20 per cent of the workforce are not subject to the objective laid down in paragraph 1 .


### while union external assistance has increasing financing needs , the economic and budgetary situation of the union limits the resources available for such assistance . the commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources through , in particular , the use of financial instruments with leverage effect . such leverage effect is increased by allowing the possibility to use and re - use the funds invested and generated by the financial instruments . ### while union external assistance has increasing financing needs , the economic and budgetary situation of the union limits the resources available for such assistance . the commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources through , in particular , the use of financial instruments with leverage effect , but without compromising the just and fair use of the union ' s resources . such leverage effect is increased by allowing the possibility to use and re - use the funds invested and generated by the financial instruments in accordance with the relevant provisions of council regulation no 1605 / 2002 of 25 june 2002 on the financial regulation applicable to the general budget of the european communities1 . _________ 1 oj l 248 , 16 . 9 . 2002 , p . 1 .


### before adopting or renewing exceptional assistance measures costing up to eur 30 000 000 , the commission shall inform the council of their nature , objectives and the financial amounts envisaged . the commission shall likewise inform the council before making significant substantive changes to exceptional assistance measures already adopted . it shall take account of the relevant policy approach of the council both in its planning and subsequent implementation of such measures , in the interest of the coherence of eu external action . ### before adopting or renewing exceptional assistance measures not exceeding the relevant financial threshold for special measures as defined in article 2 of the common implementing regulation , the commission shall inform the council of their nature , objectives and the financial amounts envisaged . the commission shall likewise inform the council before making significant substantive changes to exceptional assistance measures already adopted . it shall take account of the relevant policy approach of the council both in its planning and subsequent implementation of such measures , in the interest of the coherence of eu external action .


### the european commission does not explicitly solicit the use of human embryonic stem cells . the use of human stem cells , be they adult or embryonic , if any , depends on the judgement of the scientists in view of the objectives they want to achieve and is subject to stringent ethics review . no project involving the use of human embryonic stem cells should be funded that does not obtain the necessary approvals from the member states . no activity should be funded that is forbidden in all member states . no activity should be funded in a member state where such activity is forbidden . ### stem cell therapies have shown their added value in some cases , especially in regenerative medicine . therefore , the union should continue to support such research . however , the european commission acknowledges the ethical concerns raised by research on human embryonic stem cells and does not explicitly solicit their use . the use of human stem cells , be they adult or embryonic , if any , depends on the judgement of the scientists in view of the objectives they want to achieve and is subject to stringent ethics review . no project involving the use of human embryonic stem cells should be funded that does not obtain the necessary approvals from the member states . nevertheless , it may be useful to explore existing alternatives to research on human embryonic stem cells , in particular stem cells from umbilical cord blood and induced pluripotent stem cells .


### to achieve maximum impact , horizon 2020 should develop close synergies with other union programmes in areas such as education , space , environment , competitiveness and smes , the internal security , culture and media and with the cohesion policy funds and rural development policy , which can specifically help to strengthen national and regional research and innovation capabilities in the context of smart specialization strategies . ### to achieve maximum impact , horizon 2020 should develop close synergies with other union programmes in areas such as health , education , space , environment , competitiveness and smes , the internal security , culture and media and with the cohesion policy funds and rural development policy , which can specifically help to strengthen national and regional research and innovation capabilities in the context of smart specialization strategies . in addition , complementarity between horizon 2020 and programmes funded at national level should also be ensured . that complementarity should also be taken into account by the european court of auditors when assessing the implementation of horizon 2020 .


### horizon 2020 shall play a central role in the delivery of the europe 2020 strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth by providing a common strategic framework for the union ' s research and innovation funding , thus acting as a vehicle for leveraging private investment , creating new job opportunities and ensuring europe ' s long - term sustainable growth and competitiveness . ### horizon 2020 shall play a central role in the delivery of the europe 2020 strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth and its innovation union and resource - efficient europe flagship initiatives by providing a common strategic framework for the union ' s research and innovation funding , thus acting as a vehicle for leveraging private investment , supporting the growth of smes , creating new job opportunities , generating more innovation out of research , and ensuring europe ' s long - term sustainable growth and competitiveness through a resource and energy efficient as well as low carbon leadership .


### horizon 2020 shall contribute to building an economy based on knowledge and innovation across the whole union by leveraging sufficient additional research , development and innovation funding . thereby , it shall support the implementation of the europe 2020 strategy and other union policies , as well as the achievement and functioning of the european research area . the relevant performance indicators are set out in the introduction of annex i . ### horizon 2020 shall contribute to economic growth by building a resource efficient and low carbon economy based on knowledge and innovation across the whole union by leveraging sufficient additional research , development and innovation funding . thereby , it shall support the implementation of the europe 2020 strategy and its innovation union and resource - efficient europe flagship initiatives and other union policies , as well as the achievement and functioning of the european research area . the relevant performance indicators are set out in the introduction of annex i .


### research on human stem cells , both adult and embryonic , may be financed , depending both on the contents of the scientific proposal and the legal framework of the member states involved . no funding shall be granted for research activities that are prohibited in all the member states . no activity shall be funded in a member state where such activity is forbidden . ### research activities aiming at developing and improving therapies based on human stem cells will be supported . funding for research on human stem cells , both adult and embryonic , may be granted , depending on the legal framework of the member states involved . in particular , research on stem cells from umbilical cord blood and induced pluripotent stem cells , as an alternative to embryonic stem cells will be supported .


### complementarity with other programmes ### complementarity with other union and national programmes


### horizon 2020 shall be implemented in a way which is complementary to other union funding programmes , including the structural funds . ### horizon 2020 shall be implemented in a way which is complementary to other union and national funding programmes , including shared management funds such as cohesion and structural funds . to this end , the commission shall develop appropriate tools to assess complementarity . the european court of auditors , when assessing the implementation of horizon 2020 in its annual discharge report presented to the european parliament , shall also take into account the complementarity principle .


### the integrated approach set out in paragraphs 1 and 2 is expected to lead to around 15% of the total combined budget for the specific objective on ' leadership in enabling and industrial technologies ' and the priority ' societal challenges ' going to smes ### the integrated approach set out in paragraphs 1 and 2 is expected to lead to around 20% of the total combined budget for the specific objective on ' leadership in enabling and industrial technologies ' and the priority ' societal challenges ' going to smes


### supporting the union ' s external and development policy objectives , complementing external and development programmes . ### supporting the union ' s external and development policy objectives , complementing external and development programmes and contributing to international commitments such as the achievement of the millennium development goals .


### the commission shall annually monitor the implementation of horizon 2020 , its specific programme and the activities of the european institute of innovation and technology . this shall include information on cross - cutting topics such as sustainability and climate change , including information on the amount of climate related expenditure . ### the commission shall annually monitor the implementation of horizon 2020 , its specific programme and the activities of the european institute of innovation and technology . this shall include information on cross - cutting topics such as sustainability , resource efficiency and climate change , including information on the amount of climate related expenditure .


### the commission shall report and disseminate the results of that monitoring . ### the commission shall annually report and disseminate the results of that monitoring , including to the parliament and the council .


### leadership in enabling and industrial technologies shall provide dedicated support for research , development and demonstration on ict , nanotechnology , advanced materials , biotechnology , advanced manufacturing and processing and space . emphasis will be placed on interactions and convergence across and between the different technologies . ### leadership in enabling and industrial technologies shall provide dedicated support for research , development and demonstration on ict , nanotechnology , advanced materials , eco - innovation , biotechnology , advanced manufacturing and processing and space . emphasis will be placed on interactions and convergence across and between the different technologies .


### food security , sustainable agriculture , marine and maritime research and the bio - economy ### food safety and security , sustainable agriculture , the marine environment and the bio - economy


### food security , sustainable agriculture , marine and maritime research and the bio - economy ### food safety and security , sustainable agriculture , marine and maritime research and the bio - economy


### climate action , resource efficiency and raw materials ; ### climate action , water management , resource efficiency and raw materials ;


### climate action , resource efficiency and raw materials ; ### climate and water action , resource efficiency and raw materials ;


### climate action , resource efficiency and raw materials ### climate and water action , resource efficiency and raw materials


### key activities shall be to provide excellent and innovative training to early - stage researchers at post - graduate level via interdisciplinary projects or doctoral programmes involving universities , research institutions , businesses , smes and other socio - economic groups from different countries . this will improve career prospects for young post - graduate researchers in both the public and private sectors . ### key activities shall be to provide excellent and innovative training to early - stage researchers at post - graduate level via interdisciplinary projects or doctoral programmes involving universities , research institutions , businesses , smes and other socio - economic groups from different countries . full flexibility in terms of duration , host institution , number of trainees will be possible inside the overall agreed host network and financial volume for a project . this will improve career prospects for young post - graduate researchers in both the public and private sectors .


### a major component of ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ are key enabling technologies , defined as micro - and nanoelectronics , photonics , nanotechnology , biotechnology , advanced materials and advanced manufacturing systems22 . these multi - disciplinary , knowledge and capital - intensive technologies cut across many diverse sectors providing the basis for significant competitive advantage for european industry . an integrated approach , promoting the combination , convergence and cross - fertilisation effect of kets in different innovation cycles and value chains can deliver promising research results and open the way to new industrial technologies , products , services and novel applications . the numerous interactions of kets and enabling technologies will therefore be exploited in a flexible manner , as an important source of innovation . this will complement support for research and innovation in kets that may be provided by national or regional authorities under the cohesion policy funds within the framework of smart specialisation strategies . ### a major component of ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ are key enabling technologies , defined as micro - and nanoelectronics , photonics , nanotechnology , biotechnology , advanced materials , advanced manufacturing systems and eco - innovation22 . these multi - disciplinary , knowledge and capital - intensive technologies cut across many diverse sectors providing the basis for significant competitive advantage for european industry . an integrated approach , promoting the combination , convergence and cross - fertilisation effect of kets in different innovation cycles and value chains can deliver promising research results and open the way to new industrial technologies , products , services and novel applications . the numerous interactions of kets and enabling technologies will therefore be exploited in a flexible manner , as an important source of innovation . this will complement support for research and innovation in kets that may be provided by national or regional authorities under the cohesion policy funds within the framework of smart specialisation strategies .


### powered by the expansion of the knowledge of living systems , biotechnology is set to deliver a stream of new applications and to strengthen the union ' s industrial base and its innovation capacity . examples of the rising importance of biotechnology are in industrial applications including bio - chemicals , of which the market share is estimated to increase by up to 12 % - 20 % of chemical production by 2015 . a number of the so - called twelve rules of green chemistry are also addressed by biotechnology , due to the selectivity and efficiency of bio - systems . the possible economic burdens for union enterprises can be reduced by harnessing the potential of biotechnology processes and bio - based products to reduce co2 emissions , estimated to range from between 1 to 2 . 5 billion tons co2 equivalent per year by 2030 . in europe ' s biopharmaceutical sector , already some 20 % of the current medicines are derived from biotechnology , with up to 50 % of new medicines . biotechnology also opens new avenues for exploiting the huge potential of marine resources for producing innovative industrial , health and environmental applications . the emerging sector of marine biotechnology has been predicted to grow by 10 % a year . ### powered by the expansion of the knowledge of living systems , biotechnology is set to deliver a stream of new applications and to strengthen the union ' s industrial base and its innovation capacity . examples of the rising importance of biotechnology are in industrial and agricultural applications including food and feed production , bio - chemicals , of which the market share is estimated to increase by up to 12 % - 20 % of chemical production by 2015 . a number of the so - called twelve rules of green chemistry are also addressed by biotechnology , due to the selectivity and efficiency of bio - systems . the possible economic burdens for union enterprises can be reduced by harnessing the potential of biotechnology processes and bio - based products to reduce co2 emissions , estimated to range from between 1 to 2 . 5 billion tons co2 equivalent per year by 2030 . in europe ' s biopharmaceutical sector , already some 20 % of the current medicines are derived from biotechnology , with up to 50 % of new medicines . biotechnology also opens new avenues for exploiting the huge potential of marine resources for producing innovative industrial , health and environmental applications . the emerging sector of marine biotechnology has been predicted to grow by 10 % a year .


### development of emerging technology areas such as synthetic biology , bioinformatics and systems biology , which hold great promise for completely novel applications . ### development of emerging technology areas such as biology systems , bio - informatic and synthetic biology and systems biology , which hold great promise for completely novel applications .


### development of platform technologies to enhance leadership and competitive advantage in a wide number of economic sectors . ### development of platform technologies to enhance leadership and competitive advantage in a wide number of economic sectors . diagnostic tools will be supported if there is a link to therapy .


### targeted , focusing on policies and key sectors crucial for tackling societal challenges , enhancing competitiveness , supporting sustainable , low - carbon , inclusive growth , and providing environmental and other public goods . this component shall help the union address research and innovation aspects of sectoral policy objectives ### targeted , focusing on policies and key sectors crucial for tackling societal challenges , enhancing competitiveness , supporting sustainable , low - carbon , inclusive growth , promoting renewable energies and providing environmental and other public goods . this component shall help the union address research and innovation aspects of sectoral policy objectives


### lifelong health and wellbeing for all , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 . ### lifelong health and wellbeing for all , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 . in particular , persons with disabilities are two to three times more likely to be unemployed than non - disabled people .


### lifelong health and wellbeing for all , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 . ### lifelong health and wellbeing for all , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , solutions to deal with the economy of an ageing population and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 .


### life long health and wellbeing for all , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 . ### life long health and wellbeing for all , effective , high - quality and economically sustainable health and care systems , access to health care which is impartial and guaranteed throughout the eu and opportunities for new jobs and growth are the aims of support to research and innovation in response to this challenge and will make a major contribution to europe 2020 .


### the cost of union health and social care systems is rising with care and prevention measures in all ages increasingly expensive , the number of europeans aged over 65 expected to nearly double from 85 million in 2008 to 151 million by 2060 , and those over 80 to rise from 22 to 61 million in the same period . reducing or containing these costs such that they do not become unsustainable depends in part on ensuring the lifelong health and wellbeing of all and therefore on the effective prevention , treatment and management of disease and disability . ### the cost of union health and social care systems is rising with care and prevention measures in all ages increasingly expensive , the number of europeans aged over 65 expected to nearly double from 85 million in 2008 to 151 million by 2060 , and those over 80 to rise from 22 to 61 million in the same period . reducing or containing these costs such that they do not become unsustainable depends in part on ensuring the lifelong health and wellbeing of all and therefore on reinforcing effective prevention and awareness - raising of the factors posing a health risk and enabling the treatment and management of disease and disability .


### chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease , cancer , diabetes , neurological and mental health disorders , overweight and obesity and various functional limitations are major causes of disability , ill - health and premature death , and present considerable social and economic costs . ### chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease , cancer , diabetes , neurological and mental health disorders , overweight and obesity and various functional limitations are major causes of impairments , ill - health and premature death , and present considerable social and economic costs .


### chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease , cancer , diabetes , neurological and mental health disorders , overweight and obesity and various functional limitations are major causes of disability , ill - health and premature death , and present considerable social and economic costs . ### chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease , cancer , diabetes , neurological and mental health disorders , overweight and obesity and various functional limitations are major causes of disability , ill - health , morbidity and premature death , and present considerable social and economic costs .


### in the union , cvd annually accounts for more than 2 million deaths and costs the economy more than eur 192 billion while cancer accounts for a quarter of all deaths and is the number one cause of death in people aged 45 - 64 . over 27 million people in the union suffer from diabetes and the total cost of brain disorders has been estimated at eur 800 billion . environmental , life - style and socio - economic factors are relevant in several of these conditions with up to one third of the global disease burden estimated to be related to these . ### in the union , cvd annually accounts for more than 2 million deaths and costs the economy more than eur 192 billion . cancer accounts for a quarter of all deaths and is the number one cause of death in people aged 45 - 64 while over 27 million people in the union suffer from diabetes and the total cost of brain disorders has been estimated at eur 800 billion . this figure will continue to rise dramatically - largely as result of europe ' s ageing population and the associated increases in neurodegenerative diseases such as parkinson ' s and alzheimer ' s . environmental , life - style and socio - economic factors are relevant in several of these conditions with up to one third of the global disease burden estimated to be related to these . however , for other conditions – in particular neurodegenerative diseases – effective prevention strategies will first require a considerable boost in research into their causes and the development of better early diagnosis and treatment options .


### infectious diseases , are a global concern , accounting for 41 % of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8 % of these in europe . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for . ### the increase in infectious diseases and the reappearance of infectious diseases which had virtually disappeared are a global concern , accounting for 41 % of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8 % of these in europe . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for .


### infectious diseases , are a global concern , accounting for 41 % of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8 % of these in europe . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for . ### infectious diseases , are a global concern , accounting for 41 % of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8 % of these in europe . the resurgence of old infectious diseases including tuberculosis in the european region and the increased prevalence of vaccine - preventable diseases in developed countries underlines the need for a comprehensive approach and for increased public support for r&d . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for .


### meanwhile , drug and vaccine development processes are becoming more expensive and less effective . persistent health inequalities must be addressed , and access to effective and competent health systems must be ensured for all europeans . ### meanwhile , drug and vaccine development processes are becoming more expensive and less effective . persistent health inequalities must be addressed , and access to effective , viable and competent health systems must be ensured for all europeans .


### disease and disability are not stopped by national borders . an appropriate european level research and innovation response can and should make a crucial contribution to addressing these challenges , deliver better health and wellbeing for all , and position europe as a leader in the rapidly expanding global markets for health and wellbeing innovations . ### disease and disability are not stopped by national borders . individual member states often lack the necessary resources in order to provide the most efficient responses . an appropriate european level research and innovation response supported by an appropriate financial commitment can and should make a crucial contribution to addressing these challenges , deliver better health and wellbeing for all , and position europe as a leader in the rapidly expanding global markets for health and wellbeing innovations .


### to maximise the impact of union level actions , support will be provided to the full spectrum of research and innovation activities . from basic research through translation of knowledge to large trials and demonstration actions , mobilising private investment ; to public and pre - commercial procurement for new products , services , scalable solutions , which are when necessary , interoperable and supported by defined standards and / or common guidelines . this co - ordinated , european effort will contribute to the ongoing development of the era . it will also interface , as and when appropriate , with activities developed in the context of the health for growth programme and the european innovation partnership on active and health ageing . ### to maximise the impact of union level actions , support will be provided to the full spectrum of research and innovation activities . from basic research through translation of knowledge to large trials and demonstration actions , mobilising private investment ; to public and pre - commercial procurement for new products , services , scalable solutions , which are when necessary , interoperable and supported by defined standards and / or common guidelines . this co - ordinated , european effort will contribute to the ongoing development of the era . it will also complement and create synergies , as and when appropriate , with activities developed in the context of the health for growth programme and the european innovation partnership on active and healthy ageing .


### effective health promotion , supported by a robust evidence base , prevents disease , improves wellbeing and is cost effective . health promotion and disease prevention also depend on an understanding of the determinants of health , on effective preventive tools , such as vaccines , on effective health and disease surveillance and preparedness , and on effective screening programmes . ### effective health promotion and raising awareness of risk factors prevent disease , improve wellbeing and are cost effective . health promotion and disease prevention also depend on an understanding of the determinants of health , on european data based on common indicators , on effective preventive tools , such as vaccines , on effective health and disease surveillance and preparedness , and on effective screening programmes .


### effective health promotion , supported by a robust evidence base , prevents disease , improves wellbeing and is cost effective . health promotion and disease prevention also depend on an understanding of the determinants of health , on effective preventive tools , such as vaccines , on effective health and disease surveillance and preparedness , and on effective screening programmes . ### effective health promotion , supported by a robust evidence base , prevents disease , improves wellbeing and is cost effective . health promotion and disease prevention also depend on an understanding of the determinants of health , on effective preventive tools , such as behavioural interventions addressing risk factors and vaccines , on effective health and disease surveillance and preparedness , as well as on effective screening programmes .


### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , disability and reduced functionality are underpinned by the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as factors underlying good health and wellbeing . effective sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies is also essential , as is the translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of clinical trials . ### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , impairments and reduced functionality are underpinned by the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as factors underlying good health and wellbeing . effective sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies is also essential , as is the translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of clinical trials .


### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , disability and reduced functionality are underpinned by the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as factors underlying good health and wellbeing . effective sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies is also essential , as is the translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of clinical trials . ### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , disability and reduced functionality are underpinned by the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as factors underlying good health and wellbeing . effective sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies , particularly european studies is also essential , as is the translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of multicentre clinical trials .


### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , disability and reduced functionality are underpinned by the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as factors underlying good health and wellbeing . effective sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies is also essential , as is the translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of clinical trials . ### successful efforts to prevent , manage , treat and cure disease , disability and reduced functionality are underpinned by improved molecular knowledge of diseases through biomedical research , the fundamental understanding of their determinants and causes , processes and impacts , as well as of factors underlying good health and wellbeing . building on the results of biomedical research in developing stratified and personalised medicine is a powerful tool for providing disease treatment that is tailored to the patient ' s genetic make - up and to the specific disease type , thus increasing the efficiency of care and saving unnecessary costs for the healthcare systems . effective collection and sharing of data and the linkage of these data with large scale cohort studies is also essential , as is the timely translation of research findings into the clinic , in particular through the conduct of clinical trials .


### an increasing disease and disability burden in the context of an aging population places further demands on health and care sectors . if effective health and care is to be maintained for all ages , efforts are required to improve decision making in prevention and treatment provision , to identify and support the dissemination of best practice in the health and care sectors , and to support integrated care and the wide uptake of technological , organisational and social innovations empowering in particular older persons as well as disabled persons to remain active and independent . doing so will contribute to increasing , and lengthening the duration of their physical , social , and mental well - being . ### an increasing disease and impairments burden in the context of an aging population places further demands on health and care sectors . if effective health and care is to be maintained for all ages , efforts are required to improve decision making in prevention and treatment provision , to identify and support the dissemination of best practice in the health and care sectors , and to support integrated care and the wide uptake of technological , organisational and social innovations empowering in particular older persons as well as persons acquiring a disability during their life to remain active and independent . doing so will contribute to increasing , and lengthening the duration of their physical , social , and mental well - being .


### an increasing disease and disability burden in the context of an aging population places further demands on health and care sectors . if effective health and care is to be maintained for all ages , efforts are required to improve decision making in prevention and treatment provision , to identify and support the dissemination of best practice in the health and care sectors , and to support integrated care and the wide uptake of technological , organisational and social innovations empowering in particular older persons as well as disabled persons to remain active and independent . doing so will contribute to increasing , and lengthening the duration of their physical , social , and mental well - being . ### an increasing disease and disability burden in the context of an aging population places further demands on health and care sectors . if effective health and care is to be maintained for all ages , efforts are required to improve decision making in prevention , treatment provision and diagnosis , to identify and support the dissemination of best practice in the health and care sectors , and to support integrated care and the wide uptake of technological , organisational and social innovations empowering in particular older persons as well as disabled persons to remain active and independent . doing so will contribute to increasing , and lengthening the duration of their physical , social , and mental well - being .


### all of these activities shall be undertaken in such a way as to provide support throughout the research and innovation cycle , strengthening the competitiveness of the european based industries and development of new market opportunities . ### all of these activities shall be undertaken in such a way as to provide support throughout the research and innovation cycle , strengthening the development of new market opportunities and the competitiveness of the european based industries and supporting smes .


### all of these activities shall be undertaken in such a way as to provide support throughout the research and innovation cycle , strengthening the competitiveness of the european based industries and development of new market opportunities . ### all of these activities shall be undertaken in such a way as to provide support throughout the research and innovation cycle , while avoiding unnecessary research duplication , strengthening the competitiveness of the european based industries and development of new market opportunities .


### specific activities shall include : understanding the determinants of health , improving health promotion and disease prevention ; understanding disease and improving diagnosis ; developing effective screening programmes and improving the assessment of disease susceptibility ; improving surveillance and preparedness ; developing better preventive vaccines ; using in - silico medicine for improving disease management and prediction ; treating disease ; transferring knowledge to clinical practice and scalable innovation actions ; better use of health data ; active ageing , independent and assisted living ; individual empowerment for self - management of health ; promotion of integrated care ; improving scientific tools and methods to support policy making and regulatory needs ; and optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems and reducing inequalities by evidence based decision making and dissemination of best practice , and innovative technologies and approaches . ### specific activities shall include : understanding the determinants of health , improving health promotion and disease prevention ; understanding disease and improving diagnosis ; developing effective screening programmes and improving the assessment of disease susceptibility ; improving surveillance and preparedness ; developing better preventive vaccines ; using in - silico medicine for improving disease management and prediction ; treating disease ; transferring knowledge to clinical practice and scalable innovation actions ; better use of health data ; understanding of inequalities in the type , appropriateness and quality of health care and treatment available to persons with disabilities , including the consequences for disabled people ; active ageing , independent and assisted living for elderly persons and persons with disabilities in particular those requiring a high level of support ; individual empowerment for self - management of health ; promotion of integrated care ; improving scientific tools and methods to support policy making and regulatory needs ; and optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems and reducing inequalities by evidence based decision making and dissemination of best practice , and innovative technologies and approaches including studies on european welfare systems and their effectiveness in satisfying the diverse needs of persons with disabilities including participation and retention in employment .


### specific activities shall include : understanding the determinants of health , improving health promotion and disease prevention ; understanding disease and improving diagnosis ; developing effective screening programmes and improving the assessment of disease susceptibility ; improving surveillance and preparedness ; developing better preventive vaccines ; using in - silico medicine for improving disease management and prediction ; treating disease ; transferring knowledge to clinical practice and scalable innovation actions ; better use of health data ; active ageing , independent and assisted living ; individual empowerment for self - management of health ; promotion of integrated care ; improving scientific tools and methods to support policy making and regulatory needs ; and optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems and reducing inequalities by evidence based decision making and dissemination of best practice , and innovative technologies and approaches . ### specific activities shall include : understanding the determinants of health , improving health promotion and disease prevention ; understanding disease and improving diagnosis ; developing effective screening programmes and improving the assessment of disease susceptibility ; improving surveillance and preparedness ; developing better preventive vaccines ; using in - silico medicine for improving disease management and prediction ; improving disease treatment with an emphasis on the development of stratified / personalised medicine and orphan medicinal products ; transferring knowledge stemming from basic research to clinical practice and scalable innovation actions in a more timely and efficient manner , by fostering high - quality translational research ; using advanced it solutions to improve collection , sharing , comparison and use of health data ; promoting active ageing , independent and assisted living ; improving palliative medicine , better reproductive health , individual empowerment for self - management of health ; promotion of integrated care ; improving scientific tools and methods to support policy making and regulatory needs ; and optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems , including by the development and wider implementation of e - health solutions , and reducing inequalities by evidence based decision making and dissemination of best practice , and innovative technologies and approaches .


### the specific objective is to secure sufficient supplies of safe and high quality food and other bio - based products , by developing productive and resource - efficient primary production systems , fostering related ecosystem services , along side competitive and low carbon supply chains . this will accelerate the transition to a sustainable european bio - economy . ### the specific objective is to secure sufficient supplies of safe and high quality food and other bio - based products , avoiding the current over - exploitation of ecosystems , by developing productive and resource - efficient primary production systems , fostering related ecosystem services , along side competitive and low carbon supply chains . this will accelerate the transition to a sustainable european bio - economy .


### the potential of biological resources and ecosystems could be used in a much more sustainable , efficient and integrated manner . for examples , the potential of biomass from forests and waste streams from agricultural , aquatic , industrial , and also municipal origins could be better harnessed ### the potential of biological resources and ecosystems could be used in a much more sustainable , efficient and integrated manner . for examples , the potential of biomass from agriculture , forests and waste streams from agricultural , aquatic , industrial , and also municipal origins could be better harnessed


### a fully functional european bio - economy – encompassing the sustainable production of renewable resources from land and aquatic environments and their conversion into food , bio - based products and bioenergy as well as the related public goods - will generate high european added value . managed in a sustainable manner , it can reduce the environmental footprint of primary production and the supply chain as a whole . it can increase their competitiveness and provide jobs and business opportunities for rural and coastal development . the food security , sustainable agriculture , and overall bio - economy – related challenges are of a european and global nature . actions at union level are essential to bring together clusters to achieve the necessary breadth and critical mass to complement efforts made by a single or groups of member states . a multi - actor approach will ensure the necessary cross - fertilising interactions between researcher , businesses , farmers / producers , advisors and end - users . the union level is also necessary to ensure coherence in addressing this challenge across sectors and with strong links to relevant union policies . coordination of research and innovation at union level will stimulate and help to accelerate the required changes across the union . ### a fully functional european bio - economy – encompassing the sustainable production of renewable resources from land and aquatic environments and their conversion into food , feed , bio - based products and bioenergy as well as the related public goods - will generate high european added value . managed in a sustainable manner , it can reduce the environmental footprint of primary production and the supply chain as a whole . it can increase their competitiveness and provide jobs and business opportunities for rural and coastal development . the food security , sustainable agriculture , and overall bio - economy – related challenges are of a european and global nature . actions at union level are essential to bring together clusters to achieve the necessary breadth and critical mass to complement efforts made by a single or groups of member states . a multi - actor approach will ensure the necessary cross - fertilising interactions between researcher , businesses , farmers / producers , advisors and end - users . the union level is also necessary to ensure coherence in addressing this challenge across sectors and with strong links to relevant union policies . coordination of research and innovation at union level will stimulate and help to accelerate the required changes across the union .


### the aim is to meet the requirements of citizens for safe , healthy and affordable food , and to make food and feed processing and distribution more sustainable and the food sector more competitive . the activities shall focus on healthy and safe foods for all , informed consumer choices , and competitive food processing methods that use less resources and produce less by - products , waste and green - house gases . ### the aim is to meet the requirements of citizens for good quality , safe , healthy and affordable food , and to make food and feed processing and distribution more sustainable and the food sector more competitive . the activities shall focus on good quality , healthy and safe foods for all , informed consumer choices , and competitive food processing methods that use less resources and produce less by - products , waste and green - house gases .


### the aim is the promotion of low carbon , resource efficient , sustainable and competitive european bio - based industries . the activities shall focus on fostering the bio - economy by transforming conventional industrial processes and products into bio - based resource and energy efficient ones , the development of integrated biorefineries , utilising biomass from primary production , biowaste and bio - based industry by - products , and opening new markets through supporting standardisation , regulatory and demonstration / field trial activities and others , while taking into account the implication of the bio - economy on land use and land use changes . ### the aim is the promotion of low carbon , resource efficient , sustainable and competitive european bio - based industries . the activities shall focus on fostering the bio - economy by transforming conventional industrial processes and products into bio - based resource and energy efficient ones , the development of integrated biorefineries , producing and utilising biomass from primary production , biowaste and bio - based industry by - products , and opening new markets through supporting standardisation , regulatory and demonstration / field trial activities and others , while taking into account the implication of the bio - economy on land use and land use changes .


### the union intends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 , with a further reduction to 80 - 95 % by 2050 . in addition , renewables should cover 20 % of final energy consumption in 2020 coupled with a 20 % energy efficiency target . achieving these objectives will require an overhaul of the energy system combining low carbon profile , energy security and affordability , while at the same time reinforcing europe ' s economic competitiveness . europe is currently far from this overall goal . 80 % of the european energy system still relies on fossil fuels , and the sector produces 80 % of all the union ' s greenhouse gas emissions . every year 2 . 5 % of the union ' s gross domestic product is spent on energy imports and this is likely to increase . this trend would lead to total dependence on oil and gas imports by 2050 . faced with volatile energy prices on the world market , coupled with concerns over security of supply , european industries and consumers are spending an increasing share of their income on energy . ### the union intends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 . in addition , renewables should cover 20 % of final energy consumption in 2020 coupled with a 20 % energy efficiency target . achieving these objectives will require an overhaul of the energy system combining low carbon profile , energy security and affordability , while at the same time reinforcing europe ' s economic competitiveness . the system needs to be overhauled in this way because , faced with volatile energy prices on the world market , an increased tax burden on energy sources and the high cost of adapting to the eu’s environmental policies , european industries and consumers are spending an increasing share of their income on energy .


### activities shall focus on research , development and full scale demonstration - of innovative renewables and carbon capture and storage technologies offering larger scale , lower cost , environmentally safe technologies with higher conversion efficiency and higher availability for different market and operating environments . ### activities shall focus on research , development and full scale demonstration - of renewables that are affordable , environmentally safe and have a higher conversion efficiency and higher availability for different market and operating environments .


### the focus of activities shall be to reduce resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and improve vehicle efficiency , to accelerate the development and deployment of a new generation of electric and other low or zero emission vehicles , including through breakthroughs in engines , batteries and infrastructure ; to explore and exploit the potential of alternative fuels and innovative and more efficient propulsion systems , including fuel infrastructure ; to optimise the use of infrastructures , by means of intelligent transport systems and smart equipment ; and to increase the use of demand management and public and non - motorised transport , particularly in urban areas . ### the focus of activities shall be to reduce resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and improve vehicle efficiency , to accelerate the development and deployment of a new generation of low emission vehicles at affordable market prices , including through breakthroughs in engines , batteries and infrastructure ; to explore and exploit the potential of alternative fuels and innovative and more efficient propulsion systems , including fuel infrastructure ; to optimise the use of infrastructures , by means of intelligent transport systems and smart equipment ; and to increase the use of demand management and public and non - motorised transport , particularly in urban areas .


### the focus of activities shall be to develop the next generation of innovative transport means and to prepare the ground for the following one , by working on novel concepts and designs , smart control systems and interoperable standards , efficient production processes , shorter development times and reduced lifecycle costs . ### the focus of activities shall be to develop the next generation of innovative transport means and to prepare the ground for the following one , by working on novel concepts and designs at competitive market prices , smart control systems and interoperable standards , efficient production processes , shorter development times and reduced lifecycle costs .


### the specific objective is to achieve a resource efficient and climate change resilient economy and a sustainable supply of raw materials , in order to meet the needs of a growing global population within the sustainable limits of the planet ' s natural resources . activities will contribute to increasing european competitiveness and improving well being , whilst assuring environmental integrity and sustainability , keeping average global warming below 2 °c and enabling ecosystems and society to adapt to climate change . ### the specific objective is to achieve a resource efficient and climate change resilient economy and a sustainable supply of raw materials and water , in order to meet the needs of a growing global population within the sustainable limits of the planet ' s natural resources . activities will contribute to increasing european competitiveness and improving well being , whilst assuring environmental integrity and sustainability , keeping average global warming below 2 °c and enabling ecosystems and society to adapt to climate change .


### the focus of union actions shall therefore be on supporting key union objectives and policies including : the europe 2020 strategy ; the innovation union ; resource - efficient europe and the corresponding roadmap ; the roadmap for moving to a competitive low carbon economy in 2050 ; adapting to climate change : towards a european framework for action ; the raw materials initiative ; the union ' s sustainable development strategy ; an integrated maritime policy for the union ; the marine strategy framework directive ; the eco - innovation action plan and the digital agenda for europe . these actions shall reinforce the ability of society to become more resilient to environmental and climate change and ensure the availability of raw materials . ### the focus of union actions shall therefore be on supporting key union objectives and policies including : the europe 2020 strategy ; the innovation union ; resource - efficient europe and the corresponding roadmap ; adapting to climate change : towards a european framework for action ; the raw materials initiative ; the union ' s sustainable development strategy ; an integrated maritime policy for the union ; the marine strategy framework directive ; the eco - innovation action plan and the digital agenda for europe . these actions shall reinforce the ability of society to become more resilient to environmental and climate change and ensure the availability of raw materials .


### the aim is to develop and assess innovative , cost - effective and sustainable adaptation and mitigation measures , targeting both co2 and non - co2 greenhouse gases , and underlining both technological and non - technological green solutions , through the generation of evidence for informed , early and effective action and the networking of the required competences . activities shall focus on : improving the understanding of climate change and the provision of reliable climate projections ; assessing impacts , vulnerabilities and developing innovative cost - effective adaptation and risk prevention measures ; ### the aim is to develop and assess innovative , cost - effective and sustainable adaptation and mitigation measures and strategies , targeting both co2 and non - co2 greenhouse gases , and underlining both technological and non - technological green solutions , through the generation of evidence for informed , early and effective action and the networking of the required competences . activities shall focus on : improving the understanding of climate change and the provision of reliable climate projections ; assessing impacts , vulnerabilities and developing innovative cost - effective adaptation and risk prevention measures ;


### fighting and adapting to climate change the aim is to develop and assess innovative , cost - effective and sustainable adaptation and mitigation measures , targeting both co2 and non - co2 greenhouse gases , and underlining both technological and non - technological green solutions , through the generation of evidence for informed , early and effective action and the networking of the required competences . activities shall focus on : improving the understanding of climate change and the provision of reliable climate projections ; assessing impacts , vulnerabilities and developing innovative cost - effective adaptation and risk prevention measures ; supporting mitigation policies . ### fighting and adapting to climate change the aim is to develop and assess innovative , cost - effective and sustainable adaptation and mitigation measures , targeting both co2 and short - lived non - co2 greenhouse gases and particles , and underlining both technological and non - technological green solutions , through the generation of evidence for informed , early and effective action and the networking of the required competences . activities shall focus on : improving the understanding of climate change and the risks associated with extreme events and abrupt changes ; the ozone - climate interactions ; the provision of reliable climate projections ; assessing impacts at global , regional and local level , vulnerabilities and developing innovative cost - effective adaptation and risk prevention measures ; supporting mitigation policies and defining fast - action strategies for climate responses within few decades .


### the aim is to foster all forms of eco - innovation that enable the transition to a green economy . activities shall focus on : strengthening eco - innovative technologies , processes , services and products and boosting their market uptake and replication , with special attention for smes ; supporting innovative policies and societal changes ; measuring and assessing progress towards a green economy ; and fostering resource efficiency through digital systems . ### the aim is to foster all forms of eco - innovation that enable the transition to a green economy . activities shall focus on : strengthening eco - innovative technologies , processes , services and products and boosting their market uptake at affordable prices and their replication , with special attention for smes ; supporting innovative policies and societal changes ; measuring and assessing progress towards a green economy ; and fostering resource efficiency through digital systems .


### developing comprehensive and sustained global environmental observation and information systems the aim is to ensure the delivery of the long - term data and information required to address this challenge . activities shall focus on the capabilities , technologies and data infrastructures for earth observation and monitoring that can continuously provide timely and accurate information , forecasts and projections . free , open and unrestricted access to interoperable data and information will be encouraged ### developing comprehensive and sustained global environmental observation and information systems the aim is to ensure the delivery of the long - term data and information required to address this challenge . activities shall focus on the capabilities , technologies and data infrastructures for earth observation and monitoring from both remote sensing and in situ measurements that can continuously provide timely accurate information and permit forecasts and projections . free , open and unrestricted access to interoperable data and information will be encouraged .


### the aim is to foster the development of innovative societies and policies in europe through the engagement of citizens , enterprises and users in research and innovation and the promotion of coordinated research and innovation policies in the context of globalisation . particular support will be provided for the development of the era and the development of framework conditions for innovation . ### the aim is to foster the development of innovative societies and policies in europe through the engagement of citizens , including persons with disabilities , enterprises and users in research and innovation and the promotion of coordinated research and innovation policies in the context of globalisation . particular support will be provided for the development of the era and the development of framework conditions for innovation .


### ensure societal engagement in research and innovation ; ### ensure societal engagement , also by consulting civil society organisations , in particular organisations of persons with disabilities , in research and innovation ;


### ensure societal engagement in research and innovation ; ### ensure societal engagement in research and innovation ; increase societal appreciation of science


### europe is facing a number of structural weaknesses when it comes to innovation capacity and the ability to deliver new services , products and processes . among the main issues at hand are europe ' s relatively poor record in talent attraction and retention ; the underutilisation of existing research strengths in terms of creating economic or social value ; low levels of entrepreneurial activity ; a scale of resources in poles of excellence which is insufficient to compete globally ; and an excessive number of barriers to collaboration within the knowledge triangle of higher education , research and business on a european level . ### europe is facing a number of structural weaknesses when it comes to innovation capacity and the ability to deliver new services , products and processes . among the main issues at hand are europe ' s relatively poor record in talent attraction and retention ; the impoverishment of technical and scientific skills characteristic historically of various regions ; the underutilisation of existing research strengths in terms of creating economic or social value ; low levels of entrepreneurial activity ; a scale of resources in poles of excellence which is insufficient to compete globally ; and an excessive number of barriers to collaboration within the knowledge triangle of higher education , research and business on a european level .


### the eit will address these issues by promoting structural changes in the european innovation landscape . it will do so by fostering the integration of higher education , research and innovation of the highest standards , thereby creating new environments conducive to innovation , and by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people . in doing so , the eit will contribute fully to the objectives of europe 2020 and notably the innovation union and youth on the move flagship initiatives . ### the eit will address these issues by promoting structural changes in the european innovation landscape . it will do so by fostering the integration of higher education , research and innovation of the highest standards , thereby spreading the co - location centres of the kics throughout european regions and so creating new environments conducive to innovation , as well as by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people . in doing so , the eit will contribute fully to the objectives of europe 2020 and notably the innovation union and youth on the move flagship initiatives


### the eit , via its kics , operates in line with business logic . strong leadership is a pre - requisite : each kic is driven by a ceo . kic partners are represented by single legal entities to allow more streamlined decision - making . kics must produce annual business plans , including an ambitious portfolio of activities from education to business creation , with clear targets and deliverables , looking for both market and societal impact . the current rules concerning participation , evaluation and monitoring of kics allow fast - track , business - like decisions . ### the eit , via its kics , operates in line with business logic . strong leadership is a pre - requisite : each kic is driven by a ceo . kic partners are represented by single legal entities to allow more streamlined decision - making . kics must produce annual business plans , including an ambitious portfolio of activities from education to business creation , with clear targets and deliverables , looking for both market and societal impact , and clear added value determined by a results - oriented approach . the current rules concerning participation , evaluation and monitoring of kics allow fast - track , business - like decisions .


### the eit will make a strong contribution to the objectives set in horizon 2020 , in particular by addressing societal challenges in a way complementing other initiatives in these areas . it will test out new and simplified approaches to funding and governance and thereby play a pioneering role within the european innovation landscape . its approach to funding will be firmly based on a strong leverage effect , mobilising both public and private funds . moreover , it will employ entirely new vehicles for targeted support to individual activities through the eit foundation . ### the eit will make a strong contribution to the objectives set in horizon 2020 , in particular by addressing societal challenges in a way complementing other initiatives in these areas . it will test out new and simplified approaches to funding and governance and thereby play a pioneering role within the european innovation landscape . its approach to funding will be firmly based on a strong leverage effect , mobilising both public and private funds . moreover , it will employ entirely new vehicles for targeted support to individual activities .


### via the kics and their co - location centres – nodes of excellence , brining together higher education , research and business partners in a given geographical location – the eit will also be linked to regional policy . in particular , it shall ensure a better connection between higher education institutions and regional innovation and growth , in the context of regional and national smart specialisation strategies . in doing so , it will contribute to the objectives of the union’s cohesion policy . ### via the kics and their co - location centres – nodes of excellence , bringing together higher education , research and business partners in a given geographical location – the eit will also be linked to regional policy . in particular , it shall ensure a better connection between higher education institutions , the labour market and regional and local innovation and growth , in the context of local , regional and national smart specialisation strategies . in doing so , it will contribute to the objectives of the union’s cohesion policy .


### public procurement plays a key role in the europe 2020 strategy as one of the market - based instruments to be used to achieve a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth while ensuring the most efficient use of public funds . for that purpose , the current public procurement rules adopted pursuant to directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts have to be revised and modernised in order to increase the efficiency of public spending , facilitating in particular the participation of small and medium - sized enterprises in public procurement and to enable procurers to make better use of public procurement in support of common societal goals . there is also a need to clarify basic notions and concepts to ensure better legal certainty and to incorporate certain aspects of related well - established case - law of the court of justice of the european union . ### public procurement plays a key role in the europe 2020 strategy as one of the market - based instruments to be used to achieve a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth while ensuring the most efficient use of public funds . for that purpose , the current public procurement rules adopted pursuant to directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts have to be revised and modernised in order to increase the efficiency of public spending , facilitating in particular the participation of small and medium - sized enterprises in public procurement and to enable procurers to make better use of public procurement in support of common societal goals , leading to creation of new sustainable jobs . there is also a need to clarify basic notions and concepts to ensure better legal certainty and to incorporate certain aspects of related well - established case - law of the court of justice of the european union .


### other categories of services continue by their very nature to have a limited cross - border dimension , namely what are known as services to the person , such as certain social , health and educational services . these services are provided within a particular context that varies widely amongst member states , due to different cultural traditions . a specific regime should therefore be established for public contracts for these services , with a higher threshold of eur 500 000 . services to the person with values below this threshold will typically not be of interest to providers from other member states , unless there are concrete indications to the contrary , such as union financing for transborder projects . contracts for services to the person above this threshold should be subject to union - wide transparency . given the importance of the cultural context and the sensitivity of these services , member states should be given wide discretion to organise the choice of the service providers in the way they consider most appropriate . the rules of this directive take account of that imperative , imposing only observance of basic principles of transparency and equal treatment and making sure that contracting authorities are able to apply specific quality criteria for the choice of service providers , such as the criteria set out in the voluntary european quality framework for social services of the european union ' s social protection committee . member states and / or public authorities remain free to provide these services themselves or to organise social services in a way that does not entail the conclusion of public contracts , for example through the mere financing of such services or by granting licences or authorisations to all economic operators meeting the conditions established beforehand by the contracting authority , without any limits or quotas , provided such a system ensures sufficient advertising and complies with the principles of transparency and non - discrimination . ### other categories of services continue by their very nature to have a limited cross - border dimension , namely what are known as services to the person , such as certain social , health and educational services . these services are provided within a particular context that varies widely amongst member states , due to different cultural traditions . for a better quality of these services in contracts , a specific regime should be established with a higher threshold of eur 500 000 . services to the person with values below this threshold will typically not be of interest to providers from other member states , unless there are concrete indications to the contrary , such as union financing for transborder projects . contracts for services to the person above this threshold should be subject to union - wide transparency . given the importance of the cultural context and the sensitivity of these services , member states should be given wide discretion to organise the choice of the service providers in the way they consider most appropriate . the rules of this directive take account of that imperative , imposing only observance of basic principles of transparency and equal treatment and making sure that contracting authorities are able to apply specific quality criteria for the choice of service providers , such as the criteria set out in the voluntary european quality framework for social services of the european union ' s social protection committee . member states and / or public authorities remain free to provide these services themselves or to organise social services in a way that does not entail the conclusion of public contracts , for example through the mere financing of such services or by granting licences or authorisations to all economic operators meeting the conditions established beforehand by the contracting authority , without any limits or quotas , provided such a system ensures sufficient advertising and complies with the principles of transparency and non - discrimination .


### electronic means of information and communication can greatly simplify the publication of contracts and increase the efficiency and transparency of procurement processes . they should become the standard means of communication and information exchange in procurement procedures . the use of electronic means also leads to time savings . as a result , provision should be made for reducing the minimum periods where electronic means are used , subject , however , to the condition that they are compatible with the specific mode of transmission envisaged at union level . moreover , electronic means of information and communication including adequate functionalities can enable contracting authorities to prevent , detect and correct errors that occur during procurement procedures . ### electronic means of information and communication can greatly simplify the publication of contracts and increase the efficiency and transparency of procurement processes . it is necessary that they should become the standard means of communication and information exchange in procurement procedures . the use of electronic means also leads to time savings . as a result , provision should be made for reducing the minimum periods where electronic means are used , subject , however , to the condition that they are compatible with the specific mode of transmission envisaged at union level . moreover , electronic means of information and communication including adequate functionalities can enable contracting authorities to prevent , detect and correct errors that occur during procurement procedures .


### the technical specifications drawn up by public purchasers need to allow public procurement to be opened up to competition . to that end , it must be possible to submit tenders that reflect the diversity of technical solutions so as to obtain a sufficient level of competition . consequently , technical specifications should be drafted in such a way to avoid artificially narrowing down competition through requirements that favour a specific economic operator by mirroring key characteristics of the supplies , services or works habitually offered by that economic operator . drawing up the technical specifications in terms of functional and performance requirements generally allows this objective to be achieved in the best way possible and favours innovation . where reference is made to a european standard or , in the absence thereof , to a national standard , tenders based on equivalent arrangements must be considered by contracting authorities . to demonstrate equivalence , tenderers can be required to provide third - party verified evidence ; however , other appropriate means of proof such as a technical dossier of the manufacturer should also be allowed where the economic operator concerned has no access to such certificates or test reports , or no possibility of obtaining them within the relevant time limits . ### the technical specifications drawn up by public purchasers need to allow public procurement to be opened up to competition . to that end , it must be possible to submit tenders that reflect the diversity of technical solutions so as to obtain a sufficient level of competition . consequently , technical specifications should be drafted and applied in conformity with the principles of transparency and non - discrimination , to avoid artificially narrowing down competition through requirements that favour a specific economic operator by mirroring key characteristics of the supplies , services or works habitually offered by that economic operator . drawing up the technical specifications in terms of functional and performance requirements generally allows this objective to be achieved in the best way possible and favours innovation . where reference is made to a european standard or , in the absence thereof , to a national standard , tenders based on equivalent arrangements must be considered by contracting authorities . to demonstrate equivalence , tenderers can be required to provide third - party verified evidence ; however , other appropriate means of proof such as a technical dossier of the manufacturer should also be allowed where the economic operator concerned has no access to such certificates or test reports , or no possibility of obtaining them within the relevant time limits .


### contracting authorities that wish to purchase works , supplies or services with specific environmental , social or other characteristics should be able to refer to particular labels , such as the european eco - label , national eco - labels or any other label provided that the requirements for the label are linked to the subject - matter of the contract , such as the description of the product and its presentation , including packaging requirements . it is furthermore essential that these requirements are drawn up and adopted on the basis of objectively verifiable criteria , using a procedure in which stakeholders , such as government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , distributors and environmental organisations , can participate , and that the label is accessible and available to all interested parties . ### contracting authorities that wish to purchase works , supplies or services with specific environmental , social or other characteristics should be able to refer to particular labels , such as the european eco - label , national eco - labels or any other label provided that the requirements for the label are linked to the subject - matter of the contract , such as the description of the product and its presentation , including packaging requirements . it is furthermore essential that these requirements are drawn up and adopted on the basis of objectively verifiable criteria , using a procedure in which stakeholders , such as government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , distributors , social organisations and environmental organisations , can participate , and that the label is accessible and available to all interested parties .


### public contracts should not be awarded to economic operators that have participated in a criminal organisation or have been found guilty of corruption , fraud to the detriment of the union ' s financial interests or money laundering . non - payment of taxes or social security contributions should also be sanctioned by mandatory exclusion at the level of the union . furthermore , contracting authorities should be given the possibility to exclude candidates or tenderers for violations of environmental or social obligations , including rules on accessibility for disabled persons or other forms of grave professional misconduct , such as violations of competition rules or of intellectual property rights . ### public contracts should not be awarded to economic operators that have participated in a criminal organisation or have been found guilty of corruption , fraud to the detriment of the union ' s financial interests or money laundering . non - payment of taxes or social security contributions should also be sanctioned by mandatory exclusion at the level of the union . furthermore , contracting authorities should be given the possibility to exclude candidates or tenderers for violations of environmental or social obligations , including rules on accessibility for disabled persons , health and safety at work rules or other forms of grave professional misconduct , such as violations of competition rules or of intellectual property rights .


### contracts should be awarded on the basis of objective criteria that ensure compliance with the principles of transparency , non - discrimination and equal treatment . these criteria should guarantee that tenders are assessed in conditions of effective competition , also where contracting authorities require high - quality works , supplies and services that are optimally suited to their needs , for instance where the chosen award criteria include factors linked to the production process . as a result , contracting authorities should be allowed to adopt as award criteria either ‘ the most economically advantageous tender’ or ‘ the lowest cost’ , taking into account that in the latter case they are free to set adequate quality standards by using technical specifications or contract performance conditions . ### contracts should be awarded on the basis of objective criteria that ensure compliance with the principles of transparency , non - discrimination , equal treatment and the conscientious application of social standards . these criteria should guarantee that tenders are assessed in conditions of effective competition , also where contracting authorities require high - quality works , supplies and services that are optimally suited to their needs , for instance where the chosen award criteria include factors linked to the production process . as a result , contracting authorities should be allowed to adopt as award criteria either ‘ the most economically advantageous tender’ or ‘ the lowest cost’ , added to that of basic respect for national , european and international social standards , taking into account that in the latter case they are free to set adequate quality standards by using technical specifications or contract performance conditions .


### contract performance conditions are compatible with this directive provided that they are not directly or indirectly discriminatory , are linked to the subject - matter of the contract and are indicated in the contract notice , the prior information notice used as a means of calling for competition or the procurement documents . they may , in particular , be intended to favour on - site vocational training , the employment of people experiencing particular difficulty in achieving integration , the fight against unemployment , protection of the environment or animal welfare . for instance , mention may be made , amongst other things , of the requirements - applicable during performance of the contract - to recruit long - term job - seekers or to implement training measures for the unemployed or young persons , to comply in substance with fundamental international labour organisation conventions , even where such conventions have not been implemented in national law , and to recruit more disadvantaged persons than are required under national legislation . ### contract performance conditions are compatible with this directive provided that they are not directly or indirectly discriminatory , are linked to the subject - matter of the contract and are indicated in the contract notice , the prior information notice used as a means of calling for competition or the procurement documents . they may , in particular , be intended to favour on - site vocational training , the employment of people experiencing particular difficulty in achieving integration , the fight against unemployment , protection of the environment or animal welfare . for instance , mention may be made , amongst other things , of the requirements - applicable during performance of the contract - to recruit long - term job - seekers , unemployed young persons , persons with disabilities , women or to implement training measures for the unemployed or young persons , to comply in substance with fundamental international labour organisation conventions , even where such conventions have not been implemented in national law , and to recruit more disadvantaged persons than are required under national legislation .


### in line with the principles of equal treatment and transparency , the successful tenderer should not be replaced by another economic operator without reopening the contract to competition . however , the successful tenderer performing the contract may undergo certain structural changes during the performance of the contract , such as purely internal reorganisations , mergers and acquisitions or insolvency . such structural changes should not automatically require new procurement procedures for all public contracts performed by that undertaking . ### in line with the principles of equal treatment , objectivity and transparency , the successful tenderer should not be replaced by another economic operator without reopening the contract to competition . however , the successful tenderer performing the contract may undergo certain structural changes during the performance of the contract , such as purely internal reorganisations , mergers and acquisitions or insolvency . such structural changes should not automatically require new procurement procedures for all public contracts performed by that undertaking .


### ‘ life cycle’ means all consecutive and / or interlinked stages , including production , transport , use and maintenance , throughout the existence of a product or a works or the provision of a service , from raw material acquisition or generation of resources to disposal , clearance and finalisation ; ### ‘ life cycle’ means all consecutive and / or interlinked stages , including production , transport , installation , use and maintenance , throughout the existence of a product or a works or the provision of a service , from raw material acquisition or generation of resources to disposal , clearance and finalisation ;


### principles of procurement ### purpose and principles of procurement


### only those economic operators invited by the contracting authority following its assessment of the requested information may submit research and innovation projects aimed at meeting the needs identified by the contracting authority that cannot be met by existing solutions . the contract shall be awarded on the sole basis of the award criterion of the most economically advantageous tender in accordance with article 66 . ### only those economic operators invited by the contracting authority following its assessment of the requested information may submit research and innovation projects aimed at meeting the needs identified by the contracting authority that cannot be met by existing solutions . the contract shall be awarded on the sole basis of the award criterion of the most economically advantageous tender in accordance with article 66 and article 66 .


### without prejudice to mandatory national technical rules , to the extent that they are compatible with union law , the technical specifications shall be formulated in one of the following ways : ### without prejudice to mandatory national technical rules , to the extent that they are compatible with union law , the technical specifications shall be formulated in the following order of priority :


### where contracting authorities lay down environmental , social or other characteristics of a works , service or supply in terms of performance or functional requirements as referred to in point of article 40 they may require that these works , services or supplies bear a specific label , provided that all of the following conditions are fulfilled : ### where contracting authorities lay down environmental , social or other characteristics of a works , service or supply in terms of performance or functional requirements as referred to in point of article 40 they may require that these works , services or supplies bear labels , provided that their underlying standards are approved by bodies recognized under directive 98 / 34 / ec and :


### the labels are established in an open and transparent procedure in which all stakeholders , including government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , distributors and environmental organisations , may participate , ### the labels are established in an open and transparent procedure in which all stakeholders , including government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , distributors , social partners and environmental organisations , may participate ;


### the criteria of the label are set by a third party which is independent from the economic operator applying for the label . ### the criteria of the label are set by a third party accredited according to the recognized accreditation standards , which is independent from the economic operator applying for the label .


### contracting authorities requiring a specific label shall accept all equivalent labels that fulfil the requirements of the label indicated by the contracting authorities . for products that do not bear the label , contracting authorities shall also accept a technical dossier of the manufacturer or other appropriate means of proof . ### contracting authorities requiring a label shall accept all equivalent labels that fulfil the requirements of the label indicated by the contracting authorities . for products that do not bear the label , contracting authorities shall also accept a technical dossier of the manufacturer or other appropriate means of proof .


### where the contracting authority can demonstrate by any means that the economic operator is guilty of other grave professional misconduct ; ### where the contracting authority can demonstrate by any means that the economic operator is guilty of other grave professional misconduct ; gravely acting against the national social , environmental or labour laws of its home country or the country of the contracting authority or gravely neglecting workers ' health and safety ,


### quality , including technical merit , aesthetic and functional characteristics , accessibility , design for all users , environmental characteristics and innovative character ; ### quality , including technical merit , aesthetic and functional characteristics , accessibility , design for all users , innovative character and environmental impact throughout the life cycle ;


### where contracting authorities assess the costs using a life - cycle costing approach , they shall indicate in the procurement documents the methodology used for the calculation of the life - cycle costs . the methodology used must fulfil all of the following conditions : ### where contracting authorities assess the costs using a life - cycle costing approach , they shall indicate in the procurement documents the methodology used for the calculation of the life - cycle costs . the methodology used must be simplified in order to be accessible for smes and it must fulfil all of the following conditions :


### where contracting authorities assess the costs using a life - cycle costing approach , they shall indicate in the procurement documents the methodology used for the calculation of the life - cycle costs . the methodology used must fulfil all of the following conditions : ### where contracting authorities assess the costs using a life - cycle costing approach , they shall indicate in the procurement documents the methodology used for the calculation of the life - cycle costs and provide the method for the calculation of life - cycle costs to any tenderer . the methodology used must fulfil all of the following conditions :


### the contracting authority shall verify the information provided by consulting the tenderer . it may only reject the tender where the evidence does not justify the low level of price or costs charged , taking into account the elements referred to in paragraph 3 . ### the contracting authority shall verify the information provided by consulting the tenderer . it may only reject the tender where the evidence does not justify the low level of price or costs charged , taking into account the elements referred to in paragraph 3 , or when the received justification is not sufficient .


### however , the first subparagraph shall not apply in the event of universal or partial succession into the position of the initial contractor , following corporate restructuring operations or insolvency , of another economic operator that fulfils the criteria for qualitative selection initially established provided that this does not entail other substantial modifications to the contract and is not aimed at circumventing the application of this directive . ### however , the first subparagraph shall not apply in the event of universal or partial succession into the position of the initial contractor , following corporate restructuring operations or insolvency , of another economic operator that fulfils the criteria for qualitative selection initially established provided that this does not entail other substantial modifications to the contract and is not aimed at circumventing the application of this directive . neither shall the first subparagraph apply in the event of restructuring of the contracting authority , as the contracting authority has the right to transfer the agreement to a third party , who will be responsible for the duties of the contracting authority .


### member states shall ensure that contracting authorities have the possibility , under the conditions determined by the applicable national contract law , to terminate a public contract during its term , where one of the following conditions is fulfilled : ### member states shall ensure that the national contract law is followed when terminating a public procurement contract . member states may , when giving contracting authorities the possibility under the conditions determined by the applicable national contract law to terminate a public contract during its term , require that one of the following conditions is fulfilled :