### since gas supplies from third countries are central to the security of gas supply of the community , the commission should coordinate the actions with regard to third countries , working with producer and transit countries on arrangements to handle crisis situations and to ensure a stable gas flow to the community . the commission should be entitled to deploy a task force to monitor gas flows in crisis situations within and , in consultation with the third countries involved , outside the community and , where a crisis arises due to difficulties in a third country , to assume a mediation and facilitation role . ### since gas supplies from third countries are central to the security of gas supply of the community , the commission should include an ' energy security clause ' in trade , association , and partnership and cooperation agreements with producer and transit countries . the commission shall coordinate the actions with regard to third countries , working with producer and transit countries on arrangements to handle crisis situations and to ensure a stable gas flow to the community . the commission should be entitled to deploy a task force to monitor gas flows in crisis situations within and , in consultation with the third countries involved , outside the community and , where a crisis arises due to difficulties in a third country , to assume a mediation and facilitation role through the vice - president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , in close cooperation with the holders of the relevant portfolios within the college of commissioners .


### member states shall submit to the commission the existing inter - governmental agreements concluded with third countries which have an impact on the development of gas infrastructures and supplies ; before concluding new inter - governmental agreements , the member states shall inform the commission to assess their compliance with the internal market legislation ; ### member states shall submit to the commission the existing inter - governmental agreements concluded with third countries which have an impact on the development of gas infrastructures and supplies ; before concluding new inter - governmental agreements , the member states shall inform the commission to assess their compliance with the internal market legislation , national and community energy security implications , including the protection of critical energy infrastructure , and geopolitical risks . the conclusions resulting from such consultations shall be communicated to all relevant national companies and other economic entities ;


### the commission may declare a community emergency at the request of one competent authority or when the community loses more than 10% of its daily gas import from third countries as calculated by entso - g . it shall declare a community emergency where more than one competent authority has declared emergency following the verification in accordance with article 9 . it may declare a community emergency for specifically affected geographical regions comprising more than one member state . ### the commission shall declare a community emergency at the request of one competent authority or when the community loses more than 10% of its daily gas import from third countries as calculated by entso - g . it shall declare a community emergency where more than one competent authority has declared emergency following the verification in accordance with article 9 . it shall declare a community emergency for specifically affected geographical regions comprising more than one member state .


### member states shall submit to the commission the existing inter - governmental agreements concluded with third countries which have an impact on the development of gas infrastructures and supplies ; before concluding new inter - governmental agreements , the member states shall inform the commission to assess their compliance with the internal market legislation ; ### member states shall submit to the commission the existing inter - governmental agreements concluded with third countries which have an impact on the development of gas infrastructures and supplies ;


### in a community emergency , the commission shall coordinate the actions of the competent authorities . in particular the commission shall ensure the exchange of information , ensure the consistency and effectiveness of the actions at member state and regional level in relation to the community level , and shall coordinate the actions with regard to third countries . the commission may convene a crisis management group composed in particular of representatives of the industry and the member states concerned by the emergency . ### in a community emergency , the commission shall ensure the coordination of the emergency actions of the competent authorities . in particular the commission shall ensure the exchange of information , shall ensure the consistency and effectiveness of the actions at member state and regional level in relation to the community level , and may ensure the coordination of the actions with regard to third countries . the commission may convene a crisis management group composed in particular of representatives of the industry and the member states concerned by the emergency .


### establishment of preventive action plan and emergency plan ### establishment of preventive action plan and emergency plan at national , community and regional level


### this regulation establishes measures aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply so as to ensure the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market for gas by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities and for a coordination of the response at the level of the member states and the community regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply . ### this regulation establishes measures aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply so as to ensure the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market for gas by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities and for a coordination of the response at the level of the member states and the community regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply or to serious threats to the gas supply , having regard to the principle of solidarity between member states .


### member states shall require that all conditions in the law , regulations or administrative provisions and / or universally applicable collective agreements applicable to posted workers in a similar situation in the relevant occupational branches are met with regard to the remuneration granted during the transfer . ### member states shall require that all conditions in the law , regulations or administrative provisions and / or universally applicable collective agreements applicable to posted workers in a similar situation in the relevant occupational branches are met with regard to the remuneration granted during the transfer . particular attention shall be paid to consistency with directive 96 / 71 / ec .


### ‘ specialist’ means any person possessing uncommon knowledge essential and specific to the host entity , taking account not only of knowledge specific to the host entity , but also of whether the person has a high level of qualification referring to a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge ; ### ‘ specialist’ means any person possessing uncommon knowledge essential to the host entity , taking account not only of knowledge specific to the host entity , but also of whether the person has a high level of qualification referring to a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge ;


### ‘ manager’ means any person working in a senior position , who principally directs the management of the host entity , receiving general supervision or direction principally from the board of directors or stockholders of the business or equivalent ; this position includes : directing the host entity or a department or sub - division of the host entity , supervising and controlling the work of other supervisory , professional or managerial employees , having the authority personally to hire and dismiss or recommend hiring , dismissing or other personnel actions ; ### ‘ manager’ means any person working in a senior position who receives general supervision or direction principally from the board of directors or stockholders of the business or equivalent ; this position includes : directing the host entity or a department or sub - division of the host entity , supervising and controlling the work of other supervisory , professional or managerial employees , having the authority personally to hire and dismiss or recommend hiring , dismissing or other personnel actions ;


### intra - corporate transferees should benefit from the same working conditions as posted workers whose employer is established on the territory of the european union , as defined by directive 96 / 71 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 1996 concerning the posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services . that requirement is intended to protect workers and guarantee fair competition between undertakings established in a member state and those established in a third country , as it ensures that the latter will not be able to benefit from lower labour standards to take any competitive advantage . ### intra - corporate transferees should benefit from the same working conditions as posted workers whose employer is established on the territory of the european union , as defined by directive 96 / 71 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 1996 concerning the posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services . intra - corporate transferees should benefit from the same treatment as nationals of the host member state and permanent staff as regards both pay and employment conditions , and in particular as regards the amount of social protection benefits . that requirement is intended to protect workers , guarantee fair competition between undertakings established in a member state and those established in a third country , as it ensures that the latter will not be able to benefit from lower labour standards to take any competitive advantage , and in particular to avoid social dumping .


### ‘ specialist’ means any person possessing uncommon knowledge essential and specific to the host entity , taking account not only of knowledge specific to the host entity , but also of whether the person has a high level of qualification referring to a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge ; ### ‘ specialist’ means any person who is transferred for highly qualified employment , possesses specific knowledge essential to the host entity and having a high level of qualification referring to a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge ;


### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her knowledge of and experience in a company in preparation for a managerial position within the company ; ### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her knowledge of and experience in a company ;


### access to goods and services and the supply of goods and services made available to the public , except public housing and counselling services afforded by employment services . ### access to goods and services and the supply of goods and services made available to the public , except public housing and public employment services .


### for the purpose of this directive , intra - corporate transferees encompass managers , specialists and graduate trainees with a higher education qualification . their definition builds on specific commitments of the union under the general agreement on trade in services and bilateral trade agreements . those commitments undertaken under the general agreement on trade in services do not cover conditions of entry , stay and work . therefore , this directive complements and facilitates the application of those commitments . however , the scope of the intra - corporate transfers covered by this directive is broader than that implied by trade commitments , as the transfers do not necessarily take place within the services sector and may originate in a third country which is not party to a trade agreement . ### for the purpose of this directive , intra - corporate transferees encompass managers , specialists and graduate trainees with a higher education qualification and professional qualifications . intra - corporate transferees are to be employed in highly qualified employment . their definition builds on specific commitments of the union under the general agreement on trade in services and bilateral trade agreements . those commitments undertaken under the general agreement on trade in services do not cover conditions of entry , stay and work . therefore , this directive complements and facilitates the application of those commitments . however , the scope of the intra - corporate transfers covered by this directive is broader than that implied by trade commitments , as the transfers do not necessarily take place within the services sector and may originate in a third country which is not party to a trade agreement .


### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her knowledge of and experience in a company in preparation for a managerial position within the company ; ### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her theoretical knowledge of and experience in a company or institution in preparation for a managerial position within the company ;


### provide evidence that he or she has the professional qualifications needed in the member state to which he or she has been admitted for the position of manager or specialist or , for graduate trainees , the higher education qualifications required ; ### provide evidence that he or she has the higher education qualifications needed for a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge in the position of manager or specialist . for a specialist , a higher education qualification means any degree , diploma or other certificate issued by a competent authority . the higher education qualification shall have been obtained upon completion of a higher education programme of at least three years’ duration at an officially recognised higher education institution . in addition to a higher education qualification , at least five years’ relevant professional experience at a level comparable to a higher education qualification shall be required . a specialist shall establish that , for the duration of the transfer , his / her earnings are at least equal to the usual average gross earnings in the relevant sector in the country of assignment . should he / she be transferred on to another country of assignment , this shall be established in respect of that country too . average gross earnings for the year preceding the transfer , as recorded by the competent national authorities , shall be the basis for this . should that not yet be known , the relevant earnings for the year preceding that year may be used as the basis . a graduate trainee shall provide evidence that he or she has a higher education qualification ;


### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ; ### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national not resident within the territory of the member states from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ; this transfer is intended to cover similar situations as provided for in article 1 of directive 96 / 71 / ec .


### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her knowledge of and experience in a company in preparation for a managerial position within the company ; ### ‘ graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his / her knowledge of and experience in a company in preparation for a managerial position within the company ; graduate trainees are not employees for whom social security contributions are compulsory . member states shall ensure that employers do not make improper use of trainees to perform duties carried out by ordinary staff ;


### this directive should be applied without prejudice to the principle of union preference as regards access to member states’ labour market as expressed in the relevant provisions of acts of accession . according to that principle , the member states should , during any period when national measures or those resulting from bilateral agreements are applied , give preference to workers who are nationals of the member states over workers who are nationals of third - countries as regards access to their labour market . ### this directive should be applied without prejudice to the principle of union preference as regards access to member states’ labour market as expressed in the relevant provisions of acts of accession . according to that principle , the member states should , during any period when national measures or those resulting from bilateral agreements are applied , give preference to workers who are nationals of the member states over workers who are nationals of third - countries as regards access to their labour market . in the process , there must be mandatory compliance , in respect of both citizens of the union and third - country nationals , with national minimum pay levels and minimum standards of the state of employment .


### equal treatment should be granted under national law in respect of those branches of social security defined in article 3 of regulation no 883 / 04 of the european parliament and of the council of 29 april 2004 on the coordination of social security systems . since this directive is without prejudice to provisions included in bilateral agreements , the social security rights enjoyed by third country national intra - corporate transferees on the basis of a bilateral agreement concluded between the member state to which the person has been admitted and his or her country of origin could be strengthened compared to the social security rights which would be granted to the transferee under national law . this directive should not confer more rights than those already provided for in existing union legislation in the field of social security for third - country nationals who have cross - border interests between member states . ### equal treatment should be granted under national law in respect of those branches of social security defined in article 3 of regulation no 883 / 2004 of the european parliament and of the council of 29 april 2004 on the coordination of social security systems . since this directive is without prejudice to provisions included in bilateral agreements , the social security rights enjoyed by third country national intra - corporate transferees on the basis of a bilateral agreement concluded between the member state to which the person has been admitted and his or her country of origin could be strengthened compared to the social security rights which would be granted to the transferee under national law .


### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ; ### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ; the transfer shall not be permanent ;


### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ; ### ‘ intra - corporate transfer’ means the temporary secondment of a third - country national from an undertaking established outside the territory of a member state and to which the third - country national is bound by a work contract or other form of employment , to an entity belonging to the undertaking or to the same group of undertakings which is established inside this territory ;


### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , in particular people with functional limitations including persons with disabilities . ### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , in particular people with functional limitations including persons with disabilities , as well as for elderly persons .


### the european disability strategy 2010 - 2020 builds on the un convention and contains actions in several priority areas , including web accessibility , with the objective ' to ensure accessibility to goods and services including public services and assistive devices for people with disabilities . ' ### the european disability strategy 2010 - 2020 , which aims to break down the barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from participating in society on an equal basis , builds on the un convention and contains actions in several priority areas , including web accessibility , with the objective ' to ensure accessibility to goods and services including public services and assistive devices for people with disabilities . '


### the commission ' s egovernment action plan 2011 - 2015 calls for action to develop egovernment services that ensure inclusiveness and accessibility . ### the commission ' s egovernment action plan 2011 - 2015 calls for action to develop egovernment services that ensure inclusiveness and accessibility . at the same time , more efforts are needed for the effective implementation of the e - inclusion policy , which aims at reducing gaps in ict usage and promoting the use of ict to overcome exclusion , and improve economic performance , employment opportunities , quality of life , social participation and cohesion , including democratic consultations .


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry , social partners and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . a particular attention should be granted to the competitiveness of companies in the sector , especially of smes , so as no extra burdens are imposed on their functioning .


### member states shall determine the use of revenues generated by this directive . the revenues generated from external - cost charges , or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues , should be used to benefit the transport sector , to make transport more sustainable and optimise the entire transport system , including the following : facilitating efficient pricing ; reducing road transport pollution at source ; mitigating the effects of road transport pollution at source ; improving co2 and energy performance of vehicles ; developing alternative infrastructure for transport users and / or expanding current capacity ; optimising logistics ; or improving road safety . ### member states shall determine the use of revenues generated by this directive . the revenues generated from external - cost charges , or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues , shall be used to benefit the transport sector , to make transport more sustainable and optimise the entire transport system , including the following : facilitating efficient pricing ; reducing road transport pollution at source ; mitigating the effects of road transport pollution at source ; improving co2 and energy performance of vehicles ; developing alternative infrastructure for transport users and / or expanding current capacity ; optimising logistics ; or improving road safety . a member state in which an infrastructure charge is levied shall determine the use to be made of revenue generated by that charge . to enable the transport network to be developed as a whole , revenue from charges shall be used mainly to benefit the road transport sector and optimise the road transport system . at least 15 % of the revenues generated by the external cost charge and infrastructure charge in each member state shall be dedicated to financially supporting ten - t projects in order to increase transport sustainability . this percentage shall gradually increase over time .


### member states shall determine the use of revenues generated by this directive . the revenues generated from external - cost charges , or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues , should be used to benefit the transport sector , to make transport more sustainable and optimise the entire transport system , including the following : facilitating efficient pricing ; reducing road transport pollution at source ; mitigating the effects of road transport pollution at source ; improving the co2 and energy performance of vehicles ; developing alternative infrastructure for transport users and / or expanding current capacity ; optimising logistics ; or improving road safety . ### member states shall determine the use of revenues generated by this directive . to enable the transport network to be developed as a whole , revenue from infrastructure charges or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues shall be used to benefit the transport sector and optimise the entire transport system . the revenues generated from external cost charges , or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues , should be used to benefit the transport sector , to make transport more sustainable and optimise the entire transport system , including the following : facilitating efficient pricing ; reducing road transport pollution at source ; mitigating the effects of road transport pollution at source ; improving the co2 and energy performance of vehicles ; developing alternative infrastructure for transport users and / or expanding current capacity on the trans - european transport network ; optimising logistics ; or improving road safety and security . as from the date of transposition of this directive , member states shall be deemed to have fulfilled the provisions of this paragraph if they have in place and implement fiscal and financial support policies which leverage financial support established for the purposes set out in the second subparagraph and which have an equivalent value of the revenues generated from external cost charges . at least 15 % of the revenues generated by the external cost charge and the infrastructure charge in each member state or the equivalent in financial value of these revenues shall be used to financially support projects of common interest on the trans - european transport network . this percentage shall gradually increase over time .


### any person that has purchased a vehicle in another member state and where that vehicle does not have a registration certificate may request the vehicle registration authority to issue a temporary registration certificate of a vehicle in view of its transfer to another member state . the temporary registration certificate shall be valid for a period of 30 days . ### any person that has purchased a vehicle in another member state and where that vehicle does not have a registration certificate may request the vehicle registration authority of that member state to issue a temporary registration certificate of a vehicle with a view to its transfer to the member state of residence in order to be registered there . the temporary registration certificate shall be valid for a period of 30 days .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from the date of entry into force of this regulation . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five - year period . provided this report has been drawn up , the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such an extension not later than three months before the end of each period .


### where the holder of the registration certificate moves his normal residence to another member state , he shall request registration of a vehicle registered in another member state within a period of six months following his arrival . ### where the holder of the registration certificate moves his normal residence to another member state he shall : inform the competent registration authority of that member state immediately ; request registration of a vehicle registered in another member state within a period of three months following his arrival .


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission to lay down the common procedures and specifications for the software application that is necessary for the electronic exchange of vehicle registration data , including the format for the data exchanged , the technical procedures for electronic consultation of and access to the national electronic registers , access procedures and security mechanisms , and to establish the format and the model of the professional vehicle registration certificate . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by the member states of the commission ' s exercise of implementing powers . ### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission to lay down the common procedures and specifications for the software application , namely the european car and driving licence information system , that is necessary for the electronic exchange of vehicle registration data , including the format for the data exchanged , the technical procedures for electronic consultation of and access to the national electronic registers , access procedures and security mechanisms , and to establish the format and the model of the professional vehicle registration certificate . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by the member states of the commission ' s exercise of implementing powers .


### it distributes vehicles or provides repair , maintenance or testing services for vehicles ; ### it builds or distributes vehicles or provides repair , maintenance or testing services for vehicles ;


### the delegation of power referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission a period of five years from the date of entry into force of this regulation . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than three months before the end of the five - year period . the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or council opposes such extension not later than six months before the end of each period .


### the information on the registration of vehicles in the member state of the relevant authority ; ### the information on the procedures related to the registration of vehicles , as well as the documents to be provided in the member state of the relevant authority ;


### when preparing , implementing and monitoring assistance under this regulation , the commission shall in principle act in partnership with the beneficiary countries . the partnership shall involve , as appropriate , competent national , regional and local authorities , economic and social partners , civil society and non - state actors . ### when preparing , implementing and monitoring assistance under this regulation , the commission shall in principle act in partnership with the beneficiary countries . the partnership shall involve the following partners : competent regional , local , urban and other public authorities ; economic and social partners ; bodies representing civil society , non - governmental organisations , and bodies responsible for promoting equality and non - discrimination ; and non - state actors . the partners shall participate in the monitoring committees for programmes . the involvement of those partners shall be in accordance with the european code of conduct .


### the financial reference amount for the implementation of this regulation for the period from 2014 to 2020 shall be eur&#160 ; 14&#160 ; 110&#160 ; 100&#160 ; 000 . up to 3% of the financial reference amount shall be allocated to cross - border cooperation programmes between beneficiary countries and eu member states . ### the financial reference amount for the implementation of this regulation for the period from 2014 to 2020 shall be eur&#160 ; 14&#160 ; 110&#160 ; 100&#160 ; 000 . up to 7&#160 ; % of the financial reference amount shall be allocated to cross - border cooperation programmes between beneficiary countries and eu member states .


### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened . ### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , promote gender equality , protect national minorities and foster non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened .


### in updating these guidelines , the commission and the eib shall take into account relevant european parliament resolutions and council decisions and conclusions . the eeas shall also be consulted on policy issues , as appropriate . ### in updating these guidelines , the commission and the eib shall take into account relevant european parliament resolutions and council decisions and conclusions . the eeas shall also be consulted on policy issues , and the eib shall engage with the relevant committees of the european parliament .


### if , on expiry of the period referred to in paragraph 4 , the european parliament and the council have not adopted a decision granting a new eu guarantee to the eib against losses under its financing operations outside the union , that period shall be automatically extended by six months . ### if , on expiry of the period referred to in paragraph 4 , the european parliament and the council have not adopted a decision granting a new eu guarantee to the eib against losses under its financing operations outside the union , that period shall be automatically extended by twelve months . the commission shall present its proposal for a decision for a new guarantee no less than 18 months in advance of the expiry of this guarantee .


### while the eib ' s strength remains its distinctiveness as an investment bank , eib financing operations should contribute to the general principles guiding union external action , as referred to in article 21 of the treaty on european union , of promoting and consolidating democracy and the rule of law , human rights and fundamental freedoms , and to the implementation of international environmental agreements to which the union is a party . in particular , in relation to developing countries , eib financing operations should foster their sustainable economic , social and environmental development , particularly in the most disadvantaged amongst them , their smooth and gradual integration into the world economy , the campaign against poverty , as well as compliance with objectives approved by the union in the context of the united nations and other competent international organisations . while contributing to the implementation of the measures necessary to further the objectives of union development cooperation policy in accordance with article 209 of the treaty , the eib should strive to support indirectly the achievement of the un ' s 2015 millennium development goals in all regions where it is active . ### while the eib ' s strength remains its distinctiveness as an investment bank , eib financing operations should contribute to the general principles guiding union external action , as referred to in article 21 of the treaty on european union , of promoting and consolidating democracy and the rule of law , human rights and fundamental freedoms , the building of partnerships with third countries and to the implementation of international agreements , including environmental agreements to which the union is a party . in particular , the eib should contribute to economic , financial and technical cooperation with third countries in accordance with article 212 tfeu . in relation to developing countries , eib financing operations should foster their sustainable economic , social and environmental development , particularly in the most disadvantaged amongst them , their smooth and gradual integration into the world economy , the campaign against poverty , as well as compliance with objectives approved by the union in the context of the united nations and other relevant international organisations . while contributing to the implementation of the measures necessary to further the objectives of union development cooperation policy in accordance with article 209 of the treaty , the eib should strive to support indirectly the achievement of the un ' s 2015 millennium development goals in all regions where it is active .


### the eib shall carry out thorough due diligence and , where appropriate and in line with union social and environmental principles , require appropriate local public consultation , on development - related aspects of investment projects covered by the eu guarantee . ### the eib shall carry out thorough due diligence and , where appropriate and in line with union social and environmental principles , require appropriate local public consultation with all relevant stakeholders , on economic , social , environmental and development - related aspects of investment projects covered by the eu guarantee .


### the practical measures for linking the general objectives of the eu guarantee and their implementation are to be set out in regional technical operational guidelines . such guidelines should be consistent with the wider union regional policy framework . the regional technical operational guidelines should be reviewed and further updated following the review of this decision in order to adapt to the developments in the union external policies and priorities . ### the practical measures for linking the general objectives of the eu guarantee and their implementation are to be set out in regional technical operational guidelines . such guidelines should be consistent with the wider union regional policy framework . the regional technical operational guidelines should be reviewed and further updated following the mid - term review of this decision in order to reflect developments in the union external policies and priorities .


### olaf may carry out investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in regulation no 1073 / 1999 , regulation no 2185 / 96 and regulation no 2988 / 95 in order to protect the financial interests of the european union , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union in connection with any financing operations . ### olaf may carry out investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in regulation no 1073 / 1999 , regulation no 2185 / 96 and regulation no 2988 / 95 in order to protect the financial interests of the european union , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union in connection with any financing operations . if the financial interests of a member state are involved , olaf shall inform the government of that member state immediately ;


### in order to guarantee a uniform application of regulation no 834 / 2007 in all member states , the commission should be empowered to adopt implementing acts in accordance with article 291 of the treaty . the commission should in particular be empowered to adopt implementing acts regarding the attribution of code numbers under the control regime , the indication of origin for the products and uniform rules on the exchange of information to be sent by member states , third countries , control authorities and control bodies or made available by the commission or the publication of that information , as well as for the recognition of third countries and control authorities and control bodies for the purposes of equivalence and compliance . save where explicitly provided otherwise , the commission should adopt those implementing acts in accordance with the provisions of [ regulation no xx / xxxx of the european parliament and the council on … ] . ### in order to guarantee a uniform application of regulation no 834 / 2007 in all member states , the commission should be empowered to adopt implementing acts in accordance with article 291 of the treaty . the commission should in particular be empowered to adopt implementing acts regarding the attribution of code numbers under the control regime , the indication of origin for the products and uniform rules on the exchange of information to be sent by member states , third countries , control authorities and control bodies or made available by the commission or the publication of that information , as well as for the recognition of third countries and control authorities and control bodies for the purposes of equivalence and compliance . save where explicitly provided otherwise , the commission should adopt those implementing acts in accordance with the provisions of [ regulation no xx / xxxx of the european parliament and the council on … ] . in the context of preparatory work on the implementing acts , the commission should continue to make use of advisory groups so that interested parties and ngos can express themselves on a regular and structured basis .


### moreover , eib financing operations should contribute to the general principles guiding the eu ' s external action , as referred to in article 21 of the treaty on the european union , of promoting and consolidating democracy and the rule of law , human rights and fundamental freedoms , and to the implementation of international environmental agreements to which the eu is a party . in relation to developing countries in particular , eib financing operations should foster : sustainable economic , social and environmental development of these countries , particularly in the most disadvantaged amongst them ; their smooth and gradual integration into the world economy ; the campaign against poverty ; as well as compliance with objectives approved by the eu in the context of the united nations and other competent international organisations . the eib should gradually build up appropriate means to adequately meet these requirements . ### moreover , eib financing operations should contribute to the general principles guiding the eu ' s external action , as referred to in article 21 of the treaty on the european union , such as promoting and consolidating democracy and the rule of law , human rights and fundamental freedoms , and ensuring compliance with objectives approved by the eu in the context of the united nations and other competent international organisations , and the obligations deriving from international environmental agreements to which the eu is a party . in relation to developing countries in particular , eib financing operations should foster : sustainable economic , social and environmental development of these countries , with the main aim of eradicating poverty ; and their smooth and gradual integration into the world economy . the eib should gradually build up appropriate means to adequately meet these requirements .


### the commission shall develop , together with the eib , regional operational guidelines for eib financing under this decision . in drawing up these guidelines the commission and the eib will consult with the european external action service on policy issues , as appropriate . the operational guidelines aim to ensure that eib financing supports eu policies , and shall take as a starting point the wider eu regional policy framework set by the commission and the eeas , as appropriate . notably , the operational guidelines will ensure that eib financing is complementary to corresponding eu assistance policies , programmes and instruments in the different regions , taking into account european parliament resolutions and council decisions and conclusions . the commission will inform the european parliament and the council of the guidelines established . within the framework set out by the operational guidelines , the eib shall define corresponding financing strategies and ensure their implementation . ### the commission shall develop , together with the eib , regional operational guidelines for eib financing under this decision . in drawing up these guidelines the commission and the eib shall consult with the european external action service on policy issues . the operational guidelines aim to ensure that eib financing supports eu policies , and shall take as a starting point the wider eu regional policy framework set by the commission and the eeas , as appropriate . notably , the operational guidelines will ensure that eib financing is complementary to corresponding eu assistance policies , programmes and instruments in the different regions , taking into account european parliament resolutions , council decisions and conclusions and the european consensus on development . the commission shall report to the european parliament and the council on the guidelines established . within the framework set out by the operational guidelines , the eib shall define corresponding financing strategies and ensure their implementation .


### under this decision , the eib should increase its development orientation in close coordination with the commission and following the principles of the european consensus on development . this should be implemented through a number of concrete measures , in particular by reinforcing its capacity to appraise social and development aspects of projects , including human rights and conflict related risks , and by promoting local consultation . moreover , it should increase its focus on sectors where it has sound expertise from financing operations within the eu and which will further the development of the country in question , such as environmental infrastructure including water and sanitation , sustainable transportation and climate change mitigation , particularly in renewable energy . the eib should also progressively strengthen its activity in support of health and education as well as of climate change adaptation , where appropriate working in cooperation with other international finance institutions and european bilateral finance institutions . this will require access to concessional resources and a progressive increase in human resources devoted to eib external activities . eib activity should also be complementary to eu objectives and priorities relating to institution building and sector reforms . finally , the eib should define performance indicators which are linked to development aspects of the projects and their results . ### under this decision , the eib should increase its development orientation , following the principles of the european consensus on development , in close coordination with the commission and under the democratic scrutiny of the european parliament . this should be implemented through a number of concrete measures , in particular by reinforcing its capacity to appraise social and development aspects of projects , including human rights and conflict related risks , and by promoting local consultation . moreover , it should increase its focus on sectors where it has sound expertise from financing operations within the eu and which will further the development of the country in question , such as environmental infrastructure including water and sanitation , sustainable transportation and climate change mitigation , particularly in renewable energy . the eib should also progressively strengthen its activity in support of health and education as well as of climate change adaptation , where appropriate working in cooperation with other international finance institutions and european bilateral finance institutions . this will require access to concessional resources and an increase in specialised human resources devoted to eib external activities . eib activity should also be complementary to eu objectives and priorities relating to institution building and sector reforms . finally , the eib should define performance indicators which are linked to development aspects of the projects and their results .


### the commission shall develop , together with the eib , regional operational guidelines for eib financing under this decision . in drawing up these guidelines the commission and the eib will consult with the european external action service on policy issues , as appropriate . the operational guidelines aim to ensure that eib financing supports eu policies , and shall take as a starting point the wider eu regional policy framework set by the commission and the eeas , as appropriate . notably , the operational guidelines will ensure that eib financing is complementary to corresponding eu assistance policies , programmes and instruments in the different regions , taking into account european parliament resolutions and council decisions and conclusions . the commission will inform the european parliament and the council of the guidelines established . within the framework set out by the operational guidelines , the eib shall define corresponding financing strategies and ensure their implementation . ### the commission shall develop , together with the eib , regional operational guidelines for eib financing under this decision . in drawing up these guidelines the commission and the eib will consult with the european external action service on policy issues , as appropriate . the operational guidelines aim to ensure that eib financing supports eu policies , and shall take as a starting point the wider eu regional policy framework set by the commission and the eeas , as appropriate . notably , the operational guidelines will ensure that eib financing is complementary to corresponding eu assistance policies , programmes and instruments in the different regions , taking into account european parliament resolutions and council decisions and conclusions . the commission shall regularly inform the european parliament and the council on the guidelines established . within the framework set out by the operational guidelines , the eib shall define corresponding financing strategies and ensure their implementation .


### the certification body shall be a public or private audit body designated by the member state which shall provide an opinion on the management declaration of assurance covering the completeness , accuracy and veracity of the annual accounts of the paying agency , the proper functioning of its internal control system , the legality and regularity of the underlying transactions , as well as the respect of the principle of sound financial management . ### the certification body shall be a public or private audit body designated by the member state which shall provide an opinion , drawn up in accordance with internationally accepted audit standards on the completeness , accuracy and veracity of the annual accounts of the paying agency , the proper functioning of its internal control system and the legality and regularity of the expenditure for which reimbursement has been requested from the commission . the opinion shall also state whether the examination puts in doubt the assertions made in the management declaration .


### in the case of non compliance due to negligence , the percentage of reduction shall not exceed 5 % and , in the case of repeated non - compliance , 15 % . in duly justified cases member states may decide that no reduction shall be applied where , given its severity , extent and duration , a case of non - compliance is to be considered as minor . however , cases of non - compliance which constitute a direct risk to public or animal health shall not be considered as minor . the finding and the obligation to take remedial action shall be notified to the beneficiary . ### in the case of non compliance due to negligence , the percentage of reduction shall be at least 5 % and , in the case of repeated non - compliance , at least 15 % .


### the commission shall define , by means of implementing acts , the set of indicators specific to the objectives referred to in the first subparagraph . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 112 . ### the commission shall define , by means of implementing acts , the set of indicators and target levels specific to the objectives referred to in the first subparagraph and require member states to identify baseline and target levels for these indicators . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 112 .


### in the case of non compliance due to negligence , the percentage of reduction shall not exceed 5 % and , in the case of repeated non - compliance , 15 % . ### in the case of non compliance due to negligence , the percentage of reduction shall be at least 2% and , in the case of repeated non - compliance , at least 10% .


### in the case of intentional non - compliance , the percentage of reduction shall in principle not be less than 20 % and may go as far as total exclusion from one or several aid schemes and apply for one or more calendar years . ### in the case of intentional non - compliance , the percentage of reduction shall in principle not be less than 25 % and may go as far as total exclusion from one or several aid schemes and apply for one or more calendar years .


### the eu’s economic prosperity and well - being is underpinned by its natural capital , which includes ecosystems that provide essential goods and services , from fertile soil and multi - functional forests to productive land and seas , from fresh water and clean air to pollination , flood control and climate regulation and protection against natural disasters . a substantial body of eu legislation seeks to protect , conserve and enhance natural capital , including the water framework directive , the marine strategy framework directive , the air quality and related directives and the habitats and birds directives . legislation to tackle climate change , chemicals , industrial emissions and waste also contribute to easing the pressures on biodiversity , including ecosystems , species and habitats . ### the eu’s economic prosperity and well - being is underpinned by its natural capital , i . e . its biodiversity , including ecosystems that provide essential goods and services , from fertile soil and multi - functional forests to productive land and seas , from fresh water and clean air to pollination , flood control and climate regulation and protection against natural disasters . a substantial body of eu legislation seeks to protect , conserve and enhance natural capital , including the water framework directive , the urban wastewater directive1 , the nitrates directive2 , the marine strategy framework directive , the air quality and related directives and the habitats and birds directives . legislation to tackle climate change , chemicals , industrial emissions and waste also contribute to easing the pressures on biodiversity , including ecosystems , soil and species and habitats . __________________ 1 directive 91 / 271 / eec . 2 directive 91 / 676 / eec .


### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to : reduce per capita waste generation in absolute terms , limit energy recovery to non - recyclable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , market - based instruments that privilege prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero . ### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts , including on waste prevention , are needed to : reduce waste generation , gradually shift recyclable and compostable waste away from disposal , carrying out the planning required in order to develop the necessary recycling and recovery infrastructure , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit .


### the eu’s economic prosperity and well - being is underpinned by its natural capital , which includes ecosystems that provide essential goods and services , from fertile soil and multi - functional forests to productive land and seas , from fresh water and clean air to pollination , flood control and climate regulation and protection against natural disasters . a substantial body of eu legislation seeks to protect , conserve and enhance natural capital , including the water framework directive , the marine strategy framework directive , the air quality and related directives and the habitats and birds directives . legislation to tackle climate change , chemicals , industrial emissions and waste also contribute to easing the pressures on biodiversity , including ecosystems , species and habitats . ### the eu’s economic prosperity and well - being is underpinned by its natural capital , which includes ecosystems that provide essential goods and services , from fertile soil and multi - functional forests to productive land and seas , from fresh water and clean air to pollination , flood control and climate regulation and protection against natural disasters . a substantial body of eu legislation seeks to protect , conserve and enhance natural capital , including the water framework directive , the marine strategy framework directive , the urban wastewater directive1 , the nitrates directive2 , the air quality and related directives and the habitats and birds directives . legislation to tackle climate change , chemicals , industrial emissions and waste also contribute to easing the pressures on biodiversity , including ecosystems , species and habitats . __________________ 1 directive 91 / 271 / eec . 2 directive 91 / 676 / eec .


### forests and the services they provide are protected and their resilience to climate change and fires is improved . ### forests and the services they provide are protected and managed sustainably and their resilience to climate change , fires , storms and pests is improved .


### to reduce the most significant man - made pressures on land , soil and other ecosystems in europe , action will be taken to ensure that decisions relating to land use at all relevant levels give proper consideration to environmental as well as social and economic impacts . the rio + 20 summit outcome called for a ' land degradation neutral world ' . the eu and member states should reflect on how best to make such a commitment operational within their respective competencies as well as to address soil quality issues within a binding legal framework . targets will also be set for sustainable land use and soil . ### to reduce the most significant man - made pressures on land , soil and other ecosystems in europe , action will be taken to ensure that decisions relating to land use at all relevant levels give proper consideration to environmental as well as social and economic impacts . the rio + 20 summit outcome called for a ' land degradation neutral world ' . the eu and member states should , without delay , reflect on how best to make such a commitment operational within their respective competencies . in keeping with the subsidiarity principle and in view of the fact that widely differing soil protection approaches are currently being implemented at national level , member states should , within the framework established by the thematic strategy on soil protection , draw up targeted national soil protection strategies and a risk assessment methodology on the basis of which to identify priority polluted sites . the pooling of knowledge and experience among member states should also be encouraged . targets will also be set for sustainable land use and soil .


### waste is safely managed as a resource , waste generated per capita is in absolute decline , energy recovery is limited to non - recyclable materials and landfilling of recyclable and compostable materials is effectively eradicated . ### waste is safely managed as a resource , waste generated per capita is in absolute decline , energy recovery is limited to non - recyclable materials and landfilling of recyclable and compostable materials is effectively eradicated on a gradual basis , in line with each member state’s actual capacity to achieve this objective .


### measures will also be taken to further improve the environmental performance of goods and services on the eu market over their whole life cycle through measures to increase the supply of environmentally sustainable products and stimulate a significant shift in consumer demand for these products . this will be achieved using a balanced mix of incentives for consumers and businesses , including smes , market - based instruments and regulations to reduce the environmental impacts of their operations and products . existing product legislation such as the ecodesign and energy label directives and the ecolabel regulation will be reviewed with a view to improving the environmental performance and resource efficiency of products throughout their lifecycle , thus ensuring a more coherent framework for sustainable production and consumption in the eu . ### measures will also be taken to further improve the environmental performance of goods and services on the eu market over their whole life cycle through measures to increase the supply of environmentally sustainable products and stimulate a significant shift in consumer demand for these products . this will be achieved using a balanced mix of incentives for consumers and businesses , including smes , market - based instruments and regulations to reduce the environmental impacts of their operations and products . in this connection , a suitable framework needs to be introduced at eu and national level to help smes , which make up the majority of eu firms , to improve their environmental performance1 . the measures provided for as part of that framework should include awareness - raising campaigns and technical / financial assistance programmes targeted specifically at smes . existing product legislation such as the ecodesign and energy label directives and the ecolabel regulation will be reviewed with a view to establishing a simplified , unified and comprehensive environmental labelling system , optimising packaging , improving the environmental performance and resource efficiency of products throughout their lifecycle , thus ensuring a more coherent framework for sustainable production and consumption in the eu and encouraging both businesses and individuals to act in a more responsible manner . efforts need to be made to establish a harmonised eu method for calculating the environmental footprint of products . _______________ 1in accordance with principle ix of the small business act for europe , com0394 of 19 june 2008 .


### engagement with non - government actors is important in ensuring the success of the programme and the achievement of its priority objectives . ### transparency based engagement with non - government actors is important in ensuring the success of the programme and the achievement of its priority objectives .


### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to : reduce per capita waste generation in absolute terms , limit energy recovery to non - recyclable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , market - based instruments that privilege prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero . ### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts , including on the prevention front are needed to : reduce waste generation in relation to gnp , gradually shift recyclable and compostable waste away from disposal streams and into recycling and recovery streams , carrying out the planning required in order to develop the necessary recycling and recovery infrastructure , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , a suitable mix of policy instruments , including economic incentives , market - based instruments , regulations and waste management infrastructure planning , that places the focus on prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu once it has been subjected to impact assessment and cost - benefit analysis . special attention needs to be paid to the member states that are lagging furthest behind in this area , with a view to improving their performance and implementation of the eu waste acquis . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and raw residual waste close to zero .


### despite considerable efforts to date , the requirement under the wfd to achieve ‘ good ecological status’ by 2015 is likely to be met only for some 53 % of surface water bodies in the eu . there is also a risk that the marine strategy framework directive target to achieve ‘ good environmental status’ by 2020 may be missed , inter alia due to continued overfishing and the presence of marine litter in europe’s seas . and while eu air and industrial emissions policies have helped to reduce many forms of pollution , ecosystems continue to suffer from excess nitrogen deposition and ozone pollution associated with emissions from transport , intensive agriculture and power generation . ### despite considerable efforts to date , the wfd target of achieving ‘ good ecological status’ by 2015 is likely to be met only for some 53 % of surface water bodies in the eu . the marine strategy framework directive target to achieve ‘ good environmental status’ by 2020 is also coming under severe pressure , inter alia due to continuing human threats such as overfishing , pollution and marine litter , combined with the effects of global warming . and while eu air and industrial emissions policies have helped to reduce many forms of pollution , ecosystems continue to suffer from excess nitrogen deposition and ozone pollution associated with emissions from transport , intensive agriculture and power generation .


### to reduce the most significant man - made pressures on land , soil and other ecosystems in europe , action will be taken to ensure that decisions relating to land use at all relevant levels give proper consideration to environmental as well as social and economic impacts . the rio + 20 summit outcome called for a ' land degradation neutral world ' . the eu and member states should reflect on how best to make such a commitment operational within their respective competencies as well as to address soil quality issues within a binding legal framework . targets will also be set for sustainable land use and soil . ### to reduce the most significant man - made pressures on land , soil and other ecosystems in europe , action will be taken at national level to ensure that decisions relating to land use at all relevant levels give proper consideration to environmental as well as social and economic impacts . the rio + 20 summit outcome called for a ' land degradation neutral world ' . such a commitment could best be honoured within the member states . in view of the subsidiarity principle , soil quality issues can best be addressed within binding legal frameworks at the level of the member states . targets will also be set for sustainable land use and soil .


### fully implementing the eu climate and energy package is essential to reach the milestones identified for 2020 and for building a competitive , low - carbon economy by 2050 . whereas the eu is currently on track to reduce domestic ghg emissions 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 , meeting the 20 % energy efficiency target will require far more rapid efficiency improvements . this is also important in the light of still - growing demand for energy and the on - going debate on conflicts between land use for food and for bio - energy . the new energy efficiency directive is expected to make a significant contribution in this regard . ### fully implementing the eu climate and energy package is essential to reach the milestones identified for 2020 and for building a competitive , low - carbon economy by 2050 . whereas the eu is currently on track to reduce domestic ghg emissions 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 , meeting the 20 % energy efficiency target will require far more rapid efficiency improvements . the new energy efficiency directive is expected to make a significant contribution in this regard . this is also important in the light of still - growing demand for energy . furthermore , energy efficiency needs to be backed up by resource efficiency to promote the availability of raw material for industrial purposes . particular attention needs to be paid to the on - going debate on conflicts between land use for food and for bio - fuels . it is also vital to make sure that wood resources , including biomass for energy use , are sustainably managed and used taking into account the cascading use of materials to promote the development towards low carbon bioeconomy and higher value products .


### however , many environmental trends in the eu remain worrying , not least due to insufficient implementation of existing eu environment legislation . only 17 % of species and habitats assessed under the habitats directive are in good status , and the degradation and loss of natural capital is jeopardising efforts to attain the eu’s biodiversity and climate change objectives . this has high associated costs which have not yet been properly valued in our economic or social system . thirty per cent of the eu’s territory is highly fragmented , affecting the connectivity and health of ecosystems and their ability to provide services as well as viable habitats for species . while progress has been made in the eu to decouple growth from ghg emissions , resource use and environmental impacts , resource use is still largely unsustainable and inefficient , and waste is not yet properly managed . as a result , eu businesses are foregoing the significant opportunities that resource efficiency offers in terms of competitiveness , cost reductions , improved productivity and security of supply . water quality and air pollution levels are still problematic in many parts of europe , and eu citizens continue to be exposed to hazardous substances , potentially compromising their health and wellbeing . unsustainable land use is consuming fertile soils , with impacts on food security and the achievement of biodiversity targets . soil degradation continues largely unchecked . ### however , many environmental trends in the eu remain worrying , not least due to insufficient implementation of existing eu environment legislation . only 17 % of species and habitats assessed under the habitats directive are in good status , and the degradation and loss of natural capital is jeopardising efforts to attain the eu’s biodiversity objectives . this has high associated costs which have not yet been properly valued in our economic or social system . thirty per cent of the eu’s territory is highly fragmented , affecting the connectivity and health of ecosystems and their ability to provide services as well as viable habitats for species . while progress has been made in the eu to decouple growth from ghg emissions , resource use and environmental impacts , resource use is still largely unsustainable and inefficient , and waste is not yet properly managed . as a result , eu businesses are foregoing the significant opportunities that resource efficiency offers in terms of competitiveness , cost reductions , improved productivity and security of supply . water quality and air pollution levels are still problematic in many parts of europe , and eu citizens continue to be exposed to hazardous substances , potentially compromising their health and wellbeing . unsustainable land use is consuming fertile soils , with impacts on food security and the achievement of biodiversity targets . soil degradation continues largely unchecked .


### a majority of cities in the eu are implementing policies for sustainable urban planning and design . ### a majority of cities in the eu are implementing policies for sustainable urban planning and design , including a sustainable food supply .


### protecting , conserving and enhancing the eu’s natural capital therefore also requires tackling problems at source through , inter alia , better integration of natural capital objectives into other policies , ensuring that policies are coherent and deliver co - benefits . the greening elements set out in the commission’s reform proposals , notably for eu agriculture , fisheries and cohesion policy , backed by the proposals for greening the eu budget under the multi - annual financial framework 2014 - 2020 are designed to support these objectives . for instance , aquatic ecosystems in rural areas should benefit from the linking of farm payments to compliance with relevant requirements of the wfd as set out in the commission ' s proposals for the reform of the cap . greening of the cap will also promote the environmentally beneficial agricultural practices of crop diversification , the protection of permanent grassland , and the establishment and maintenance of ecologically valuable farmland and forest areas . ### protecting , conserving , enhancing and according proper value to the eu’s natural capital therefore also requires tackling problems at source through , inter alia , better integration of natural capital objectives into other policies , ensuring that policies are coherent and deliver co - benefits . the greening elements set out in the commission’s reform proposals , notably for eu agriculture , fisheries and cohesion policy , backed by the proposals for greening the eu budget under the multi - annual financial framework 2014 - 2020 are designed to support these objectives . greening of the cap will also promote the environmentally beneficial agricultural practices of crop diversification , the protection of permanent grassland and grazing land , agroforestry and the establishment and maintenance of ecologically valuable farmland and forest areas .


### waste is safely managed as a resource , waste generated per capita is in absolute decline , energy recovery is limited to non - recyclable materials and landfilling of recyclable and compostable materials is effectively eradicated . ### waste is safely managed as a resource and in such a way as to prevent any harm being caused to the environment and to health , waste generated in relation to gnp is in decline and recyclable and compostable waste is gradually being shifted away from disposal streams and into recycling and recovery streams .


### fully implementing the eu climate and energy package is essential to reach the milestones identified for 2020 and for building a competitive , low - carbon economy by 2050 . whereas the eu is currently on track to reduce domestic ghg emissions 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 , meeting the 20 % energy efficiency target will require far more rapid efficiency improvements . this is also important in the light of still - growing demand for energy and the on - going debate on conflicts between land use for food and for bio - energy . the new energy efficiency directive is expected to make a significant contribution in this regard . ### fully implementing the eu climate and energy package is essential to reach the milestones identified for 2020 and for building a competitive , low - carbon economy by 2050 . whereas the eu is currently on track to reduce domestic ghg emissions 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 , meeting the 20 % energy efficiency target will require far more rapid efficiency improvements . the new energy efficiency directive is expected to make a significant contribution in this regard . this is also important in the light of still - growing demand for energy . furthermore , energy efficiency needs to be backed up by resource efficiency . particular attention needs to be paid to the on - going debate on conflicts between land use for food and for bio - fuels . it is also vital to make sure that wood resources , including biomass for energy use , are sustainably managed and used as efficiently as possible , with due regard for the characteristics of this resource and the economic uses to which it may be put .


### in the case of the marine environment , while the maritime sector offers economic opportunities , from fishing , shipping and aquaculture to raw materials and offshore energy and marine biotechnology , care needs to be taken to ensure their exploitation is compatible with the conservation and sustainable management of marine and coastal ecosystems . ### in the case of the marine environment , while the maritime sector offers economic opportunities , from fishing , shipping and aquaculture to raw materials and offshore energy and marine biotechnology , care needs to be taken to ensure their exploitation is compatible with the conservation and sustainable management of marine and coastal ecosystems . the conservation of marine resources necessitates an agreement between the member states and the commission on the digital mapping of eu waters , including protected areas and protected species . this map should include features that must be protected under the treaties and environmental impact assessment legislation , such as natural resources , biodiversity and cultural heritage . the commission should call for international waters , especially the mediterranean , to be studied as part of integrated maritime policy .


### forests and the services they provide are protected and their resilience to climate change and fires is improved . ### forests are sustainably managed to safeguard the services they provide and to improve their resilience to climate change , fires , storms , pests and diseases .


### increasing efforts to reduce soil erosion and increase soil organic matter , to remediate contaminated sites and to enhance the integration of land use aspects into coordinated decision - making involving all relevant levels of government , supported by the adoption of targets on soil and on land as a resource , and land planning objectives . ### increasing efforts at national level to reduce soil erosion and increase soil organic matter – inter alia by preserving and expanding tried and tested agrienvironmental programmes in the rural development of the cap – , to remediate contaminated sites and to enhance the integration of land use aspects into coordinated decision - making involving all relevant levels of government , supported by the adoption of targets on soil and on land as a resource , and land planning objectives ; increasing efforts at national level to reduce the area of land used and to preserve agricultural land areas for the production of food , feed and renewable raw materials .


### taking further steps to reduce emissions of nitrogen and phosphorus , including those from urban and industrial wastewater and from fertiliser use . ### taking further steps to reduce emissions of nitrogen and phosphorus , including those from urban and industrial wastewater and from fertiliser use , and to recover the waste phosphorous .


### developing an eu strategy for a non - toxic environment , supported by a comprehensive chemical exposure and toxicity knowledge base and conducive to innovation of sustainable substitutes . ### continuing to implement the eu strategy for a clean , safe and healthy environment in keeping with the goal agreed at the 2002 world summit on sustainable development and reaffirmed at the rio + 20 summit , supported by a comprehensive chemical exposure and toxicity knowledge base compiled from data produced using non - animal test methods wherever possible , with central coordination by the european chemicals agency , and conducive to innovation of safe and sustainable substitutes .


### establishing a more coherent framework for sustainable production and consumption . reviewing product legislation with a view to improving the environmental performance and resource efficiency of products throughout their lifecycle . setting targets for the reduction of the overall impact of consumption . ### establishing a more coherent legal framework for sustainable production and consumption . reviewing product legislation with a view to improving the environmental performance and resource efficiency of products throughout their lifecycle . setting targets for the reduction of the overall impact of consumption . combating food wastage . universalising environmental labelling of products .


### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to : reduce per capita waste generation in absolute terms , limit energy recovery to non - recyclable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , market - based instruments that privilege prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero . ### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to limit energy recovery to non - recyclable and non - biodegradable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , market - based instruments that correspond to the five - tier hierarchy of waste should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion timetable targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero .


### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to : reduce per capita waste generation in absolute terms , limit energy recovery to non - recyclable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , market - based instruments that privilege prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero . ### turning waste into a resource , as called for in the resource efficiency roadmap , requires the full implementation of eu waste legislation across the eu , based on strict application of the waste hierarchy and covering different types of waste . additional efforts are needed to : reduce per capita waste generation in absolute terms , limit energy recovery to non - recyclable materials , phase out landfilling , ensure high quality recycling , and develop markets for secondary raw materials . hazardous waste will need to be managed so as to minimise significant adverse effects on human health and the environment , as agreed at the rio + 20 summit . to achieve this , a combination of various market - based instruments that privilege prevention , recycling and re - use should be applied much more systematically across the eu . barriers facing recycling activities in the eu internal market should be removed and existing prevention , re - use , recycling , recovery and landfill diversion targets reviewed so as to move towards a ‘ circular’ economy , with a cascading use of resources and residual waste close to zero .


### – there are still uncertainties surrounding the human health and environmental implications of endocrine disruptors , mixtures , chemicals in products and nanomaterials . filling these gaps can accelerate decision - making and enable the further development of the chemicals acquis to better target areas of concern , while stimulating more sustainable use of chemicals . an improved understanding of the environmental factors affecting human health would allow preventive policy actions to be taken . ### – there are still uncertainties surrounding the human health and environmental implications of endocrine disruptors , mixtures , chemicals in products and nanomaterials . the member states that have made the greatest advances in this area are asked to share their knowledge and experience with their eu partners and , where appropriate following an impact assessment , could support the introduction of harmonised eu arrangements for furthering that knowledge , in particular in the field of nanomaterials . filling the gaps that exist , working on the basis of common definitions and scientific data on the intrinsic dangers of specific substances , encouraging research and applying the precautionary principle , wherever necessary , as well as the principle of proportionality , can facilitate decision - making and enable the further development of the chemicals acquis to better target areas of concern , while stimulating more sustainable use of chemicals . an improved understanding of the environmental factors affecting human health would allow preventive policy actions to be taken .


### environmental problems and impacts continue to pose significant risks for human health and wellbeing , whereas measures to improve the state of the environment can be beneficial . ### environmental problems and impacts increasingly pose significant risks for human health and wellbeing , whereas measures to improve the state of the environment can be beneficial and should be encouraged in all aspects of european union policy .


### the degradation , fragmentation and unsustainable use of land in the eu is jeopardising the provision of several key ecosystem services , threatening biodiversity and increasing europe’s vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters . it is also driving soil degradation . more than 25% of the eu ' s territory is affected by soil erosion by water , which compromises soil functions and affects the quality of freshwater . soil contamination and sealing are also persistent problems . more than half a million sites across the eu are thought to be contaminated and until they are identified and assessed , they continue to pose potentially serious environmental and health risks . every year more than 1 000 km² of land are taken for housing , industry , transport or recreational purposes . these long - term changes are difficult or costly to reverse , and nearly always involve trade - offs between various social , economic and environmental needs . member states ' planning decisions relating to land use should be made more sustainable . ### the degradation , fragmentation and unsustainable use of land in the eu is jeopardising the provision of several key ecosystem services , threatening biodiversity and increasing europe’s vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters . it is also driving soil degradation . more than 25% of the eu ' s territory is affected by soil erosion by water , which compromises soil functions and affects the quality of freshwater . soil contamination and sealing are also persistent problems . more than half a million sites across the eu are thought to be contaminated and until they are identified and assessed , they continue to pose potentially serious environmental and health risks . every year more than 1 000 km² of land are taken for housing , industry , transport or recreational purposes . these long - term changes are difficult or costly to reverse , and nearly always involve trade - offs between various social , economic and environmental needs . member states ' planning decisions relating to land use should be made more sustainable . with a view to addressing the serious problem of the sealing of the soil , the eu member states should be required to take steps to reduce the area of land which has been built on and to safeguard agricultural land used to produce food , feedingstuffs and renewable raw materials .


### extending binding criteria for effective member state inspections and surveillance to the wider body of eu environment law , and developing a complementary capacity at eu level to address situations where there is due reason for concern , backed up by support for networks of professionals . ### encouraging member states to rationalise existing inspection capacities and bolster the impel network . extending binding criteria for effective member state inspections and surveillance to the wider body of eu environment law , and developing a complementary capacity at eu level to address situations where there is due reason for concern , at the request of the member state concerned and on the basis of a cost - effectiveness analysis . promoting the establishment of networks of professionals modelled on the impel , in order to step up the production of peer reviews at the request of the member states concerned , including when dealing with situations about which there is serious concern .


### many of the priority objectives set out in this programme can only be fully achieved as part of a global approach and in cooperation with partner countries . that is why the union and its member states should engage in relevant international , regional and bilateral processes in a strong , focused , united and coherent manner . they should continue to promote an effective , rules - based framework for global environment policy , complemented by a more effective , strategic approach in which bilateral and regional political dialogues and cooperation are tailored towards the union ' s strategic partners , candidate and neighbourhood countries , and developing countries , respectively , supported by adequate finance . ### many of the priority objectives set out in this programme can only be fully achieved as part of a global approach and in cooperation with the union’s partner countries and associated countries and territories . that is why the union and its member states should engage in relevant international , regional and bilateral processes in a strong , focused , united and coherent manner . they should continue to promote an effective , rules - based framework for global environment policy , complemented by a more effective , strategic approach in which bilateral and regional political dialogues and cooperation are tailored towards the union ' s strategic partners , candidate and neighbourhood countries , and developing countries , respectively , supported by adequate finance . the union’s communication policy relating to its global - level actions in the environmental field should be stepped up .