### a minimum union standard of protection against certain manifestly unfair trading practices should be introduced to reduce the occurrence of such practices and to contribute to ensuring a fair standard of living for agricultural producers . it should benefit all agricultural producers or any natural or legal person that supplies food products , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations , provided that all those persons meet the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises set out in the annex to commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec12 . those micro , small or medium suppliers are particularly vulnerable to unfair trading practices and least able to weather them without negative effects on their economic viability . as the financial pressure on small and medium - sized enterprises caused by unfair trading practices often passes through the chain and reaches agricultural producers , rules on unfair trading practices should also protect small and medium - sized intermediary suppliers at the stages downstream of primary production . protection of intermediary suppliers should also avoid unintended consequences of trade diversion away from agricultural producers and their associations , who produce processed products , to non - protected suppliers . _________________ 12 oj l 124 , 20 . 5 . 2003 , p . 36 . ### a minimum union standard of protection against unfair trading practices should be introduced to reduce the occurrence of such practices and to contribute to ensuring a fair standard of living for agricultural producers inside and outside the union . it should benefit all agricultural producers or any natural or legal person that supplies food products , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations , provided that they do not represent an enterprise consisting of over 500 employees . micro , small or medium suppliers are particularly vulnerable to unfair trading practices and least able to weather them without negative effects on their economic viability . as the financial pressure on small and medium - sized enterprises caused by unfair trading practices often passes through the chain and reaches agricultural producers , rules on unfair trading practices should also be enforceable at higher levels of the food chain to protect small and medium - sized intermediary suppliers at the stages downstream of primary production . protection of intermediary suppliers should also avoid unintended consequences of trade diversion away from agricultural producers and their associations , who produce processed products , to non - protected suppliers .


### a minimum union standard of protection against certain manifestly unfair trading practices should be introduced to reduce the occurrence of such practices and to contribute to ensuring a fair standard of living for agricultural producers . it should benefit all agricultural producers or any natural or legal person that supplies food products , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations , provided that all those persons meet the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises set out in the annex to commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec12 . those micro , small or medium suppliers are particularly vulnerable to unfair trading practices and least able to weather them without negative effects on their economic viability . as the financial pressure on small and medium - sized enterprises caused by unfair trading practices often passes through the chain and reaches agricultural producers , rules on unfair trading practices should also protect small and medium - sized intermediary suppliers at the stages downstream of primary production . protection of intermediary suppliers should also avoid unintended consequences of trade diversion away from agricultural producers and their associations , who produce processed products , to non - protected suppliers . _________________ 12 oj l 124 , 20 . 5 . 2003 , p . 36 . ### a minimum union standard of protection against certain manifestly unfair trading practices should be introduced to reduce the occurrence of such practices , to contribute to ensuring a fair standard of living for agricultural producers and to take account of the particular nature of farming , given its social structure and the structural and natural disparities between farming regions . it should benefit all agricultural producers and any natural or legal person that supplies food products , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations . as the financial pressure on enterprises caused by unfair trading practices often passes through the chain and reaches agricultural producers , rules on unfair trading practices should also protect intermediary suppliers at the stages downstream of primary production . protection of intermediary suppliers should also avoid unintended consequences of trade diversion away from agricultural producers and their associations , who produce processed products , to non - protected suppliers .


### “supplier” means any agricultural producer or any natural or legal person , irrespective of their place of establishment , who sells food products . the term “supplier” may include a group of such agricultural producers or such natural and legal persons , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations ; ### “supplier” means any agricultural producer or any natural or legal person , irrespective of their place of establishment , who sells products . the term “supplier” may include a group of agricultural producers or of natural and legal persons , including producer organisations and associations of producer organisations ;


### member states shall ensure that the following trading practices are prohibited , if they are not agreed in clear and unambiguous terms at the conclusion of the supply agreement : ### member states shall ensure that the following trading practices are prohibited :


### a supplier pays for the promotion of food products sold by the buyer . prior to a promotion and if that promotion is initiated by the buyer , the buyer shall specify the period of the promotion and the expected quantity of the food products to be ordered ; ### a supplier pays for the promotion or advertising of food products sold by the buyer . prior to a promotion and if that promotion is initiated by the buyer , the buyer shall specify the period of the promotion and the expected quantity of the food products to be ordered ;


### it is the union ' s objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples . ### it is the union ' s objective to encourage social progress and the sustainability and resilience of its society , by strengthening its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities deemed appropriate to support the implementation of other union policies and the honouring of the union ' s international commitments , in particular under the paris agreement , the addis ababa action agenda , the un ' s 2030 agenda and the the sustainable development goals targets 3b , 9 . 5 and 17 . 6 - 17 . 9 , to deliver on the union ' s political strategic priorities and commitments , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , tackling climate change , sustainable development as embodied by the sdgs , the union ' s values , and the well - being of its peoples .


### to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . ### to deliver scientific , economic , educational , cultural and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry whilst achieving the goal of establishing a more inclusive , educated , creative and ( sustainable society , to address global challenges and promote industrial and sme’s competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; to optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area .


### open science , including open access to scientific publications and research data , has the potential to increase the quality , impact and benefits of science and to accelerate the advancement of knowledge by making it more reliable , more efficient and accurate , better understandable by society and responsive to societal challenges . provisions should be laid down to ensure that beneficiaries provide open access to peer - reviewed scientific publications , research data and other research outputs in an open and non - discriminatory manner , free of charge and as early as possible in the dissemination process , and to enable their widest possible use and re - use . more emphasis should in particular be given to the responsible management of research data , which should comply with the fair principles of ‘ findability’ , ‘ accessibility’ , ‘ interoperability’ and ‘ reusability’ , notably through the mainstreaming of data management plans . where appropriate , beneficiaries should make use of the possibilities offered by the european open science cloud and adhere to further open science principles and practices . ### open science , including open access to scientific publications and research data , has the potential to increase the quality , impact and benefits of science and to accelerate the advancement of knowledge by making it more reliable , more efficient and accurate , better understandable by society and responsive to societal challenges . this is particularly important for actors in developing countries , where local research capacity must be improved and whose collaboration with union partners can help to tackle common global challenges and contribute to union research excellence . provisions should be laid down to ensure that beneficiaries provide open access to peer - reviewed scientific publications , research data and other research outputs in an open and non - discriminatory manner , free of charge and as early as possible in the dissemination process , and to enable their widest possible use and re - use . more emphasis should in particular be given to the responsible management of research data , which should comply with the fair principles of ‘ findability’ , ‘ accessibility’ , ‘ interoperability’ and ‘ reusability’ , notably through the mainstreaming of data management plans . where appropriate , beneficiaries should make use of the possibilities offered by the european open science cloud and adhere to further open science principles and practices .


### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim . ### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the 2030 agenda for sustainable development and the un sustainable development goals . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim .


### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim . ### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals . horizon europe should support and leverage national strategies for the fulfilment of the sdgs through common infrastructures and shared approaches . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim spearheading the union’s commitment to providing leadership in addressing global challenges and to sharing its knowledge with its international partners .


### activities supported under the programme should contribute towards the achievement of the union ' s objectives and priorities the monitoring and assessment of progress against those objectives and priorities and for the development of revised or new priorities . ### activities supported under the programme should contribute towards the achievement of the union ' s objectives and priorities as well as international commitments , especially the sdgs , and the monitoring and assessment of progress against those objectives and priorities and for the development of revised or new priorities . european research priorities should therefore provide specific alignment with sdgs in terms of establishing targets and measuring the impact of the programme .


### the programme should support research and innovation in an integrated manner , respecting all relevant provisions of the world trade organisation . the concept of research , including experimental development should be used in accordance with the frascati manual developed by the oecd , whereas the concept of innovation should be used in accordance with the oslo manual developed by the oecd and eurostat , following a broad approach that covers social innovation . the oecd definitions regarding technological readiness level should continue , as in the previous framework programme horizon 2020 , to be taken into account in the classification of technological research , product development and demonstration activities , and the definition of types of action available in calls for proposals . in principle grants should not be awarded for actions where activities go above trl 8 . the work programme for a given call under the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' could allow grants for large - scale product validation and market replication . ### the programme should support research and innovation in an integrated manner , respecting all relevant provisions of the world trade organisation . the concept of research , including experimental development should be used in accordance with the frascati manual developed by the oecd , whereas the concept of innovation should be used in accordance with the oslo manual developed by the oecd and eurostat , following a broad approach that covers social innovation . the oecd definitions regarding technological readiness level should continue , as in the previous framework programme horizon 2020 , to be taken into account in the classification of technological research , product development and demonstration activities , and the definition of types of action available in calls for proposals . in principle grants should not be awarded for actions where activities go above trl 8 . the work programme for a given call under the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' could allow grants for large - scale product validation and market replication , recognizing this is of specific importance in areas with market failure , for instance to address antimicrobial resistance and tuberculosis .


### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . ### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefits and global commitments to implement the un sdgs and the paris agreement . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s excellence in research and innovation , in particular eco - innovation , attractiveness and economic and industrial sustainability and competitiveness , to tackle global social challenges , as embodied in the paris agreement and the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies with a special focus on reduction and eradication of poverty . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions including with low - and middle income countries , should be followed . appropriate eligibility criteria concerning different levels of r&i capacities for funding of entities in low to middle income countries should be applied . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted in order to encourage the contribution of worldwide talent to the delivery of the programme .


### ' research infrastructures ' mean facilities that provide resources and services for the research communities to conduct research and foster innovation in their fields . this definition includes the associated human resources , and it covers major equipment or sets of instruments ; knowledge - related facilities such as collections , archives or scientific data infrastructures ; computing systems , communication networks , and any other infrastructure , of a unique nature and open to external users , essential to achieve excellence in research and innovation . where relevant , they may be used beyond research , for example for education or public services and they may be ' single sited ' , ' virtual ' or ' distributed ' ; ### ' research infrastructures ' mean facilities that provide resources and services for the research communities to conduct research and foster innovation in their fields . this definition includes the associated human resources , and it covers major equipment or sets of instruments ; knowledge - related facilities such as museums , collections , archives or scientific data infrastructures ; computing systems , communication networks , and any other infrastructure , of a unique nature and open to external users , essential to achieve excellence in research and innovation . where relevant , they may be used beyond research , for example for education or public services and they may be ' single sited ' , ' virtual ' or ' distributed ' ;


### to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , and support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges ; ### to strengthen the role of research and innovation in achieving growth , sustainable development and in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , objectives and commitments , and support equitable access to and the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and improve people ' s well - being ;


### commitment to a rules - based open market economy , including fair and equitable dealing with intellectual property rights , backed by democratic institutions ; ### commitment to a rules - based economy , including fair and equitable dealing with intellectual property rights , respect of human rights and duly observe the principles acknowledged by the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , backed by democratic institutions ;


### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . the ethics assessment shall be carried out by the commission unless it is delegated to the funding body . for actions involving the use of human embryonic stem cells or human embryos , an ethics assessment shall be mandatory . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out with the support of ethics experts . the commission and the funding bodies shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible . ### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . the ethics assessment shall be carried out by the commission unless it is delegated to the funding body . for actions involving the use of animals , human embryonic stem cells or human embryos , an ethics assessment shall be mandatory . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out with the support of ethics experts . the commission and the funding bodies shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible .


### indicators to report on progress of the programme towards the achievement of the objectives established in article 3 are set in annex v along impact pathways . ### indicators to report on progress of the programme towards the achievement of the objectives established in article 3 are set in annex v along impact pathways . to the extent possible , the chosen indicators shall be streamlined with the sdg indicators .


### marie skłodowska - curie actions : equipping researchers with new knowledge and skills through mobility and exposure across borders , sectors and disciplines , as well as structuring and improving institutional and national recruitment , training and career development systems ; in so doing , the marie skłodowska - curie actions help to lay the foundations of europe ' s excellent research landscape , contributing to boosting jobs , growth , and investment , and solving current and future societal challenges . ### marie skłodowska - curie actions : equipping researchers with new knowledge and skills through mobility and exposure across borders , sectors and disciplines , while preventing brain - drain from developing countries and actively supporting the build - up of r&i competence in a direct relation with local and regional needs and in coordination with the union’s development instrument , as well as structuring and improving institutional and national recruitment , training and career development systems ; in so doing , the marie skłodowska - curie actions help to lay the foundations of europe ' s excellent research landscape , contributing to boosting jobs , sustainable economic fabrics , and investment , and solving current and future societal challenges .


### areas of intervention : manufacturing technologies ; digital technologies ; advanced materials ; artificial intelligence and robotics ; next generation internet ; high performance computing and big data ; circular industries ; low carbon and clean industry ; space ### areas of intervention : sustainable manufacturing technologies ; digital technologies ; advanced materials ; artificial intelligence and robotics ; next generation open internet ; high performance computing and big data ; circular industries ; low carbon and clean industry ; space


### areas of intervention : health ; resilience and security ; digital and industry ; climate , energy and mobility ; food and natural resources ; support to the functioning of the internal market and the economic governance of the union ; support to member states with implementation of legislation and development of smart specialisation strategies ; analytical tools and methods for policy making ; knowledge management ; knowledge and technology transfer ; support to science for policy platforms . ### areas of intervention : health ; resilience and human security ; peacebuilding and conflict prevention including early warning , digital and industry ; climate , energy and mobility ; food and natural resources ; support to the functioning of the internal market and the economic governance of the union ; support to member states with implementation of legislation and development of smart specialisation strategies ; analytical tools and methods for policy making ; knowledge management ; knowledge and technology transfer ; support to science for policy platforms


### through the following activities , this part will , in line with article 4 , optimise the programme ' s delivery for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . it will also support the programme ' s other specific objectives as described in article 3 . while underpinning the entire programme , this part will support activities that contribute to a more knowledge - based and innovative and gender - equal europe , at the front edge of global competition , thereby optimising national strengths and potential across europe in a well - performing european research area , where knowledge and a highly skilled workforce circulate freely , where the outcomes of r&i are understood and trusted by informed citizens and benefit society as a whole , and where eu policy , notably r&i policy , is based on high quality scientific evidence . ### through the following activities , this part will , in line with article 4 , optimise the programme ' s delivery for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . it will also support the programme ' s other specific objectives as described in article 3 . while underpinning the entire programme , this part will support activities that engage civil society and contribute to a more knowledge - based and innovative and gender - equal europe , at the front edge of global competition , thereby optimising national strengths and potential across europe in a well - performing european research area , where knowledge and a highly skilled workforce circulate freely , and where citizens and civil society are engaged in setting the research and innovation agenda so that the programme delivers benefit to society as a whole and the outcomes of r&i are understood and trusted by informed citizens , and where eu policy , notably r&i policy , is based on high quality scientific evidence .


### research and innovation needs related to digital aspects are identified and established in the programme ' s strategic research and innovation plans ; this includes research and innovation for high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , combining digital with other enabling technologies and non - technological innovations ; support for the scale - up of companies introducing breakthrough innovations ( many of which will combine digital and physical technologies ; the integration of digital across all the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' ; and the support to digital research infrastructures ; ### research and innovation needs related to digital aspects are identified and established in the programme ' s strategic research and innovation plans ; this includes research and innovation for open internet , high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , combining digital with other enabling technologies and non - technological innovations ; support for the scale - up of companies introducing societally relevant innovations ( many of which will combine digital and physical technologies ; the integration of digital across all the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' ; and the support to digital research infrastructures ;


### the programme is expected to have societal impact by addressing eu policy priorities through r&i , delivering benefits and impact through r&i missions and strengthening the uptake of innovation in society . progress towards this impact will be monitored through proxy indicators set along the following four key impact pathways . ### the programme is expected to have societal impact by addressing global challenges as defined by the sdgs as well as eu policy priorities through r&i , delivering benefits and impact through r&i missions and strengthening the uptake of and equitable access to innovation in society , ultimately contributing to human well - being . progress towards this impact will be monitored through proxy indicators set along the following four key impact pathways . to the extent possible , the chosen indicators shall be streamlined with the sdg indicators .


### delivering benefits and impact through r&i missions ### delivering societal benefits and impact through r&i missions


### a pre - condition for granting the union ' s macro - financial assistance should be that moldova respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi - party parliamentary system – and the rule of law , and guarantees respect for human rights . in addition , the specific objectives of the union ' s macro - financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency , transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems , the governance and supervision of the financial sector in moldova and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth , employment creation and fiscal consolidation . both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the commission and the european external action service . ### a pre - condition for granting the union ' s macro - financial assistance should be that moldova respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi - party parliamentary system – and the rule of law , and guarantees respect for human rights . in addition , the specific objectives of the union ' s macro - financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency , transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems , the governance and supervision of the financial sector in moldova aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth and employment creation . both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the commission and the european external action service .


### biodegradable municipal waste accounts for a large proportion of municipal waste . landfilling of untreated biodegradable waste poses significant negative enviornmental effects in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and pollution of surface water , groundwater , soil and air . while directive 1999 / 31 / ec already sets landfill diversion targets for biodegradable waste it is appropriate to put in place further restrictions on the landfilling of biodegradable waste by prohibiting the landfilling of biodegradable waste that has been separately collected in accordance with article 22 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . ### biodegradable municipal waste accounts for a large proportion of municipal waste . landfilling of untreated biodegradable waste poses significant negative environmental effects in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and pollution of surface water , groundwater , soil and air . while directive 1999 / 31 / ec already sets landfill diversion targets for biodegradable waste it is appropriate to put in place further restrictions on the landfilling of biodegradable waste by prohibiting the landfilling of biodegradable waste that has been separately collected in accordance with article 22 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . the commission and the member states should encourage the use of alternative measures for the sustainable treatment of biodegradable waste in line with new technologies and techniques such as worm composting , bio - digestion , etc .


### a progressive reduction of landfilling is necessary to prevent detrimental impacts on human health and the environment and to ensure that economically valuable waste materials are gradually and effectively recovered through proper waste management and in line with the waste hierarchy . this reduction should avoid the development of excessive capacity for the treatment of residual waste facilities , such as through energy recovery or low grade mechanical biological treatment of untreated municipal waste , as this could result in undermining the achievement of the union ' s long - term preparation for reuse and recycling targets for municipal waste as laid down in article 11 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . similarly , and to prevent detrimental impacts on human health and the environment , while member states should take all necessary measures to ensure that only waste that has been subject to treatment is landfilled , compliance with such obligation should not lead to the creation of overcapacities for the treatment of residual municipal waste . in addition , in order to ensure consistency between the targets laid down in article 11 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and the landfill reduction target defined in article 5 of this directive and to ensure a coordinated planning of the infrastructures and investments needed to meet those targets , member states which may obtain additional time for the attainment of the municipal waste recycling targets should also be given additional time to attain the landfill reduction target for 2030 as laid down in this directive . ### a progressive reduction of landfilling is necessary to prevent detrimental impacts on human health and the environment and to ensure that economically valuable waste materials are gradually and effectively recovered through proper waste management and in line with the waste hierarchy . this reduction should avoid the development of excessive capacity for the treatment of residual waste facilities , such as through energy recovery or low grade mechanical biological treatment of untreated municipal waste , as this could result in undermining the achievement of the union ' s long - term preparation for reuse and recycling targets for municipal waste as laid down in article 11 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . similarly , and to prevent detrimental impacts on human health and the environment , while member states should take all necessary measures to ensure that only waste that has been subject to treatment is landfilled , compliance with such obligation should be compatible with the development of adequate capacities for the treatment of residual municipal waste and should not contribute to increased waste incineration capacity or an over - use of landfills . in addition , in order to ensure consistency between the targets laid down in article 11 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and the landfill reduction target defined in article 5 of this directive and to ensure a coordinated planning of the infrastructures and investments needed to meet those targets , member states which may obtain additional time for the attainment of the municipal waste recycling targets should also be given additional time to attain the landfill reduction target for 2030 as laid down in this directive .


### statistical data reported by member states are essential for the commission to assess compliance with waste legislation across the member states . the quality , reliability and comparability of statistics should be improved by introducing a single entry point for all waste data , deleting obsolete reporting requirements , benchmarking national reporting methodologies and introducing a data quality check report . reliable reporting of statistical data concerning waste management is paramount to efficient implementation and to ensuring comparability of data among member states . therefore , when preparing the reports on compliance with the targets set out in directive 19991 / 31 / ec , member states should be required to use the most recent methodology developed by the commission and the national statistical offices of the member states . ### statistical data reported by member states are essential for the commission to assess compliance with waste legislation across the member states . the quality , reliability and comparability of statistics should be improved by introducing a single entry point for all waste data , deleting obsolete reporting requirements , benchmarking national reporting methodologies and introducing a data quality check report . reliable reporting of statistical data concerning waste management and waste landfill capacity is paramount to efficient implementation and to ensuring comparability of data among member states . therefore , when preparing the reports on compliance with the targets set out in directive 19991 / 31 / ec , member states should be required to use the most recent methodology developed by the commission and the national statistical offices of the member states .


### comprehensive action is required to reverse the vicious circle created by a lack of investment . structural reforms and fiscal responsibility are necessary preconditions for stimulating investment . along with a renewed impetus towards investment financing , these preconditions can contribute to establishing a virtuous circle , where investment projects help support employment and demand and lead to a sustained increase in growth potential . ### comprehensive action is required to reverse the vicious circle created by a lack of investment especially in rural communities . increased public investment and reforms which will optimise the potential of local indigenous enterprises within rural and peripheral communities and can contribute to establishing a positive circle where investment projects help support employment and demand and lead to a sustained increase in growth potential in the areas most affected by the economic crisis .


### the investment environment within the union should be improved by removing barriers to investment , reinforcing the single market and by enhancing regulatory predictability . the work of the efsi , and investments across europe generally , should benefit from this accompanying work . ### the public , social and private investment environment within the european union should be improved by removing barriers to investment and by enhancing regulatory predictability . the work of the efsi , and investments across europe generally , should benefit from this accompanying work .


### the purpose of the efsi should be to help resolve the difficulties in financing and implementing productive investments in the union and to ensure increased access to financing . it is intended that increased access to financing should be of particular benefit to small and medium enterprises . it is also appropriate to extend the benefit of such increased access to financing to mid - cap companies , which are companies having up to 3000 employees . overcoming europe ' s current investment difficulties should contribute to strengthening the union ' s economic , social and territorial cohesion . ### the purpose of the efsi should be to help resolve the difficulties in financing and implementing productive investments in the european union and to ensure increased access to financing for projects which require it most . it is intended that increased access to financing should be of particular benefit to agriculture and food processing industries and small and medium enterprises including indigenous enterprises within member states , as well as other entities , such as local high - tech enterprises and social economy enterprises that provide high value for invested money . it is also appropriate to extend the benefit of such increased access to financing to mid - cap companies , which are companies having up to 3000 employees . overcoming europe ' s current investment difficulties should contribute to strengthening rural development within the european union .


### many small and medium enterprises , as well as mid - cap companies , across the union require assistance to attract market financing , especially as regards investments that carry a greater degree of risk . the efsi should help these businesses to overcome capital shortages by allowing the eib and the european investment fund to provide direct and indirect equity injections , as well as to provide guarantees for high - quality securitisation of loans , and other products that are granted in pursuit of the aims of the efsi . ### many small and medium enterprises , as well as mid - cap companies and indigenous sectors , across the european union require assistance to attract market financing , especially as regards investments that carry a greater degree of risk . the efsi should help these businesses to overcome capital shortages by allowing the eib and the european investment fund to provide direct and indirect equity injections , as well as to provide guarantees for high - quality securitisation of loans , and other products that are granted in pursuit of the aims of the efsi .


### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote job creation , long - term growth and competitiveness . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . this wide range of products should allow the efsi to adapt to market needs whilst encouraging private investment in the projects . the efsi should not be a substitute for private market finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use . ### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote job creation and long - term sustainable growth including within the agricultural sector , which will optimise the potential of local indigenous enterprises . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . the efsi should not be a substitute for private finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most equitable and uniform use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles whilst acknowledging the need for each member state to organise and prioritise funding for public services , should contribute to such equitable and uniform use of public money .


### the efsi should target projects with a higher risk - return profile than existing eib and union instruments to ensure additionality over existing operations . the efsi should finance projects across the union , including in the countries most affected by the financial crisis . the efsi should only be used where financing is not available from other sources on reasonable terms . ### the efsi should target projects with a higher risk - return profile than existing eib and european union instruments to ensure additionality over existing operations . the efsi should finance projects across the european union including rural and sustainable development projects with an emphasis on the countries most affected by the financial crisis . the efsi should only be used where financing is not available from other sources on reasonable terms .


### the efsi agreement shall be open to accession by member states . subject to the consent of existing contributors , the efsi agreement shall also be open to accession by other third parties , including national promotional banks or public agencies owned or controlled by member states , and private sector entities . ### the efsi agreement shall be open to accession by member states . subject to the consent of existing contributors , the efsi agreement shall also be open to accession by other public third parties , including national promotional banks or public agencies owned or controlled by member states .


### the investment committee shall be composed of six independent experts and the managing director . independent experts shall have a high level of relevant market experience in project finance and be appointed by the steering board for a renewable fixed term of three years . ### the investment committee shall be composed of eight independent experts and the managing director . independent experts shall have a high level of relevant experience in project structuring and financing , as well as macroeconomic expertise . the investment committee shall have a pluridisciplinary composition encompassing a broad range of expertise in various sectors , such as agricultural , rural development and sustainability , transport , research and smes . a specialist in agricultural policies and rural and sustainable development and a specialist in environmental policy shall be appointed as independent experts in the investment committee . the investment committee shall be appointed by the steering board for a renewable fixed term of three years .


### development of infrastructure , including in the areas of transport , particularly in industrial centres ; energy , in particular energy interconnections ; and digital infrastructure ; ### development of infrastructure , including in the areas of transport , particularly in industrial centres ; energy , in particular energy interconnections ; and digital infrastructure ; investment of any kind in infrastructure , and in transport - related infrastructure especially , shall be assessed for its value to society ;


### ’existing combustion plant’ means a combustion plant put into operation before [ 1 year after the date of transposition ] ; ### ’existing combustion plant ' means a combustion plant put into operation before [ 2 years after the date of transposition ] or for which a permit was granted before [ date of transposition ] pursuant to national legislation provided that the plant is put into operation no later than [ 2 years after date of transposition ] ;


### the safety performance of existing roads should be improved by targeting investment to the road sections with the highest accident concentration and the highest accident reduction potential . ### the safety performance of existing roads should be improved by ensuring for the drivers , especially professional drivers , enough parking and rest areas that provide appropriate parking spaces especially in mountainous and peripheral regions in all weather conditions , and by targeting investment to the road sections with the highest accident concentration and the highest accident reduction potential .


### ‘ safety rating’ means the classification of parts of the existing road network in categories according to their objectively measured in - built safety ; ### ‘ safety rating’ means the classification of parts of the existing road network , including parking areas , in categories according to their objectively measured in - built safety ;


### ‘ road safety inspection’ means a targeted on - site inspection of an existing road or section of road to identify hazardous conditions , faults and deficiencies that increase the risk of accidents and injuries ; ### ‘ road safety inspection’ means a targeted on - site inspection of an existing road , including parking areas , or section of road to identify hazardous conditions , winter conditions , faults and deficiencies that increase the risk of accidents and injuries ;


### pedestrian crossings ; ### pedestrian crossings and cycling ;


### on 10 june 2016 the commission presented the proposal for the eu to ratify the paris agreement . this legislative proposal forms part of the implementation of the eu ' s commitment in the paris agreement . the union ' s commitment to economy - wide emission reductions was confirmed in the intended nationally determined contribution of the union and its member states that was submitted to the secretariat of the unfccc on 6 march 2015 . ### on 10 june 2016 the commission presented the proposal for the eu to ratify the paris agreement . this legislative proposal forms part of the implementation of the eu ' s commitment in the paris agreement to reduce its domestic greenhouse gas emissions towards holding the increase of global temperature to well below 2°c above pre - industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1 , 5°c above pre - industrial levels . the union ' s commitment to economy - wide emission reductions was confirmed in the intended nationally determined contribution of the union and its member states that was submitted to the secretariat of the unfccc on 6 march 2015 .


### this regulation lays down obligations on the minimum contributions of member states to meeting the greenhouse gas emission reduction commitment of the union for the period from 2021 to 2030 , rules on determining annual emission allocations and for the evaluation of member states ' progress towards meeting their minimum contributions . ### this regulation requires member states to collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions referred to in article 2 by at least 30% in 2030 compared to 2005 . it lays down obligations on the minimum contributions of member states to meeting the greenhouse gas emission reduction commitment of the union for the period from 2021 to 2030 , rules on determining annual emission allocations and for the evaluation of member states ' progress towards meeting their minimum contributions .


### a member state whose greenhouse gas emissions for a given year are below its annual emission allocation for that year , taking into account the use of flexibilities pursuant to this article and article 6 , may bank that excess part of its annual emission allocation to subsequent years until 2030 . ### a member state whose greenhouse gas emissions for a given year are below its annual emission allocation for that year , taking into account the use of flexibilities pursuant to this article and article 6 , may bank up to 5 % of that excess part of its annual emission allocation to subsequent years until 2029 .


### in 2027 and 2032 , if the reviewed greenhouse gas emissions of a member state exceed its annual emission allocation for any specific year of the period , pursuant to paragraph 2 of this article and the flexibilities used pursuant to articles 5 to 7 , the following measures shall apply : ### if a member state exceeds its annual emission allocation for any specific year of the period , pursuant to paragraph 2 of this article and the flexibilities used pursuant to articles 5 to 7 , the following measures shall apply :


### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate . ### within six months of the facilitative dialogue which is to be convened under the unfccc in 2018 to take stock of the collective efforts of parties in relation to progress towards the global long - term goal , and within six months of the global stocktake in 2023 and every five years thereafter , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and to the council on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 , 2040 and 2050 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and assess its contribution to the long - term mitigation goals of the paris agreement and the need to update this regulation to enhance the union´s climate action . that report shall be accompanied , where appropriate , by legislative proposals .


### there is currently no comprehensive framework at eu - level for the screening of foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order . ### there is currently no comprehensive framework at union level for the screening of foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order . there are however several outlying countries which , due to austerity policies which had been imposed on them , were virtually forced to privatise key companies that consequently ended up in foreign ownership .


### the framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the member states and the commission with the means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner , and to adapt to changing circumstances , whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for member states to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances . ### the framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the member states and the commission with the means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner , and to adapt to changing circumstances , whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for member states to assess foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances .


### to guide member states and the commission in the application of the regulation , it is appropriate to provide a list of factors that may be taken into consideration when screening foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order . this list will also improve transparency of the screening process for investors considering making or having made foreign direct investments in the union . this list of factors that may affect security or public order should remain non - exhaustive . ### to guide member states and the commission in the application of the regulation , it is appropriate to provide a list of factors that may be taken into consideration when assessing foreign direct investment on the grounds of security , public order , environmental standards and social risks . this list will also improve transparency of the screening process for investors considering making or having made foreign direct investments in the union . this list of factors that may affect security , public order , environmental standards and social risks should remain non - exhaustive .


### in determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order , member states and the commission should be able to consider all relevant factors , including the effects on critical infrastructure , technologies , including key enabling technologies , and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order , and the disruption , loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a member state or in the union . in that regard , member states and the commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly by the government of a third country . ### in determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order , member states and the commission should be able to consider all relevant factors , including the effects on job losses , social risks and environmental standards , critical infrastructure , technologies , including key enabling technologies , and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order , and the disruption , loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a member state or in the union . in that regard , member states and the commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly by the government of a third country .


### it is appropriate to lay down the essential elements of the procedural framework for the screening of foreign direct investment by member states to allow investors , the commission and other member states to understand how such investments are likely to be screened and to ensure that these investments are screened in a transparent manner and that they are non - discriminatory between third countries . those elements should at least include the establishment of timeframes for the screening and the possibility for foreign investors to seek judicial redress of screening decisions . ### it is appropriate to lay down the essential elements of the procedural framework for the screening of foreign direct investment by member states to allow investors , the commission and other member states to understand how such investments are likely to be assessed and to ensure that these investments are assessed in a transparent manner and that they are non - discriminatory between third countries . those elements should at least include the establishment of timeframes for the assessing and the possibility for foreign investors to seek judicial redress of screening decisions .


### ' screening ' means a procedure allowing to assess , investigate , authorise , condition , prohibit or unwind foreign direct investments ; ### ' screening ' means a procedure allowing to assess , investigate , authorise , condition , prohibit foreign direct investments ; we should have in mind that only member states have the unique authority to investigate , authorise , prohibit or unwind a foreign direct investment .


### member states may maintain , amend or adopt mechanisms to screen foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order , under the conditions and in accordance with the terms set out in this regulation . ### member states may maintain , amend or adopt mechanisms to assess foreign direct investments on their own territory on the grounds of national interest , security or public order , or environmental standards and social risks , under the conditions and in accordance with the terms set out in this regulation . nationalisation shall be considered a means to employ when job losses , environmental standards and social conditions are at stake .


### projects or programmes of union interest shall include in particular those projects and programmes which involve a substantial amount or a significant share of eu funding , or which are covered by union legislation regarding critical infrastructure , critical technologies or critical inputs . an indicative list of projects or programmes of union interest is included in annex 1 . ### projects or programmes of union interest shall include in particular those projects and programmes which involve a substantial amount or a significant share of eu funding , or which are covered by union legislation regarding job losses , environmental standards , social risks , critical infrastructure , critical technologies or critical inputs . an indicative list of projects or programmes of union interest is included in annex 1 .


### factors that may be taken into consideration in the screening ### factors that may be taken into consideration in the assessing .


### foreign investors and undertakings concerned shall have the possibility to seek judicial redress against screening decisions of the national authorities . ### every screening mechanism shall consist in an ex - ante examination and shall lead to a formal authorisation by the relevant member states . foreign investors and undertakings concerned shall have the possibility to seek judicial redress against screening decisions of the national authorities .


### most mercury emissions and associated exposure risks result from anthropogenic activities , including primary mercury mining and processing , the use of mercury in products , industrial processes and artisanal and small - scale gold mining and mercury emissions originating in particular from coal combustion and the management of mercury waste . ### most mercury emissions and associated exposure risks result from anthropogenic activities , including primary mercury mining and processing , the use of mercury in products , industrial processes and artisanal and small - scale gold mining and mercury emissions originating in particular from coal combustion and the management of mercury waste . fossil fuel combustion in power plants and industrial boilers together with residential heating constitute almost half of global mercury emissions . therefore , the transition to renewable energy production along with energy efficiency measures should be hastened in order to significantly reduce the release of mercury into the atmosphere .


### swift ratification of the convention by the union and its member states will encourage major global mercury users and emitters , that are signatories of the convention , to ratify and implement it . ### swift ratification of the convention by the union and its member states will encourage major global mercury users and emitters that are signatories of the convention , to ratify and implement it . further action undertaken by the union , going beyond the convention requirements , would lead the way , as it was the case with regulation no . 1102 / 2008 , for mercury - free products and processes .


### the mercury export ban set out in regulation no 1102 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council39 should be complemented by restrictions on the import of mercury depending on the source , the intended use and the place of origin of mercury . the national authorities designated in accordance with regulation no 649 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council40 should perform the administrative functions linked to the implementation of such restrictions . __________________ 39 regulation no 1102 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2008 on the banning of exports of metallic mercury and certain mercury compounds and mixtures and the safe storage of metallic mercury . 40 regulation no 649 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 4 july 2012 concerning the export and import of hazardous chemicals . ### the mercury export ban set out in regulation no1102 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council39 should be implemented together with a full import ban . the national authorities designated in accordance with regulation no 649 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council40 should perform the administrative functions linked to the implementation of such measures . __________________ 39 regulation no 1102 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2008 on the banning of exports of metallic mercury and certain mercury compounds and mixtures and the safe storage of metallic mercury . 40 regulation no 649 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 4 july 2012 concerning the export and import of hazardous chemicals .


### the export , import and manufacturing of a range of mercury - added products accounting for a significant share of the use of mercury and mercury compounds within the union and globally should be prohibited . ### the export , import and manufacturing of mercury - added products should be phased - out with an ultimate short - term target that all products containing intentionally added mercury should be prohibited .


### the use of mercury and mercury compounds in asgm accounts for a significant share of mercury use and emissions worldwide , and should therefore be regulated . ### the use of mercury and mercury compounds in asgm accounts for a significant share of mercury use and emissions worldwide with devastating effects both for the local communities and globally , and should therefore be prohibited in the union and regulated at international level . it is estimated that small - scale gold mining is practiced in 77 countries with about 20 million people worldwide directly engaged and another 85 to 90 million people indirectly dependent upon it . globally , small - scale miners produce between 20 percent and 30 percent of all gold that is mined - approximately 500 to 800 metric tons of gold per year . therefore , the union should encourage , within the framework of the minamata convention , all other parties to the convention to monitor closely through accurate and strict reporting of export / import the trade of the surplus mercury intended for use in asgm and track mercury transfers in wastes .


### this regulation establishes measures and conditions concerning the trade , manufacture , use and interim storage of mercury , mercury compounds , mixtures , mercury - added products and the management of mercury waste . ### this regulation establishes measures and conditions concerning the trade , manufacture , use and interim storage of mercury , mercury compounds , mixtures , mercury - added products , emissions and releases and the management of mercury waste in order to ensure a high level of protection of human and animal health and the environment from mercury . where appropriate , member states may apply stricter requirements than those laid down in this regulation .


### - products for research , calibration of instrumentation , for use as reference standard . ### - products for research , for use as reference standard .


### by way of derogation from paragraphs 1 and 2 , where an economic operator intends to manufacture and / or place on the market a new mercury - added product or to operate a new manufacturing process , the operator shall notify the competent authorities of the member state concerned and provide them , with the following : ### by way of derogation from paragraphs 1 and 2 , and only when a new mercury - added product or new manufacturing process would provide significant health benefits and that no technically feasible mercury - free alternatives providing such benefits are available , an economic operator intends to manufacture and / or place on the market a new mercury - added product or to operate a new manufacturing process , the operator shall notify the competent authorities of the member state concerned and provide them , with the following :


### upon notification by the member state concerned , the commission shall verify in particular whether it has been demonstrated that the new mercury - added product or new manufacturing process would provide significant environmental and health benefits and that no technically and economically feasible mercury - free alternatives providing such benefits are available . ### upon notification by the member state concerned , the commission shall verify in particular whether it has been demonstrated that the new mercury - added product or new manufacturing process would provide significant health benefits and that no technically feasible mercury - free alternatives providing such benefits are available .


### the commission shall adopt decisions , by means of implementing acts , in view of specifying whether the relevant new mercury - added product or new manufacturing process is allowed . ### the commission shall adopt decisions , by means of implementing acts , in view of specifying whether the relevant new mercury - added product or new manufacturing process is allowed . the member state concerned may not authorise the new product or process before the commission has adopted its decision .


### member states on the territory of which more than insignificant artisanal and small - scale gold mining and processing activities are carried out shall : ### member states on the territory of which artisanal and small - scale gold mining and processing activities are carried out shall :


### - develop and implement a national plan in accordance with annex iv . ### - develop and implement a national plan in accordance with annex iv accompanying the prohibition process .


### storage and disposal of mercury waste ### storage and disposal of mercury waste and contaminated sites


### reporting on mercury waste from large sources ### reporting on mercury waste


### the companies operating within the industry sectors referred to in points , and of article 11 shall send each year by 31 may to the competent authorities of the member states concerned data related to the total amount of mercury waste stored in each installation and sent to individual temporary or permanent storage facilities as well as the location and contact details of those facilities . ### the companies operating within the industry sectors referred to in points , and of article 11 shall send each year by 31 may to the competent authorities of the member states concerned data related to the total amount of mercury waste and mercury content of waste stored in each installation and sent to individual temporary or permanent storage facilities as well as the location and contact details of those facilities .


### a list of individual stocks of mercury exceeding 50 metric tonnes , which are located in their territory and , where member states are made aware , a list of sources of mercury supply generating annual stocks of mercury exceeding 10 metric tonnes . ### a list of individual stocks and sites of mercury or mercury compounds exceeding 10 metric tonnes cumulatively , which are located in their territory and a list of sources of mercury supply generating annual stocks of mercury exceeding 10 metric tonnes ;


### the commission shall adopt decisions , by means of implementing acts , to provide a template for those questionnaires and to make an electronic reporting tool available to the member states . ### the commission shall adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 17 , supplementing this regulation by laying down a template for those questionnaires in order to make an electronic reporting tool available to the member states .


### the commission ' s communication on ' a new , modern multiannual financial framework for a european union that delivers efficiently on its priorities post - 2020 ' 57 outlines among the options for the future financial framework a programme for europe ' s digital transformations to deliver ' strong progress towards smart growth in areas such as high quality data infrastructure , connectivity and cybersecurity ' . it would seek to secure european leadership in supercomputing , next generation internet , artificial intelligence , robotics and big data . it would reinforce the competitive position of industry and businesses in europe across the digitised economy and would have a significant impact on filling the skills gap across the union . _________________ 57 com 98 final ### the commission ' s communication on ' a new , modern multiannual financial framework for a european union that delivers efficiently on its priorities post - 2020 ' 57 outlines among the options for the future financial framework a programme for europe ' s digital transformations to deliver ' strong progress towards smart growth in areas such as high quality , high performance and interoperable data infrastructure , connectivity and cybersecurity ' . it would seek to secure european leadership in supercomputing , next generation internet , artificial intelligence , robotics and big data . it would reinforce the competitive position of industry and businesses in europe across the digitised economy and would have a significant impact on filling the skills gap across the union . _________________ 57 com 98 final


### deploy , operate and maintain trans - european interoperable digital service infrastructures in complementarity with national and regional actions ; ### deploy , operate and maintain trans - european high quality , high performance and interoperable digital service infrastructures in complementarity with national and regional actions ;


### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote job creation , long - term growth and competitiveness . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . this wide range of products should allow the efsi to adapt to market needs whilst encouraging private investment in the projects . the efsi should not be a substitute for private market finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use . ### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote job creation and long - term sustainable growth . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . the efsi should not be a substitute for private finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use .


### the purpose of the efsi shall be to support investments in the union and to ensure increased access to financing for companies having up to 3000 employees , with a particular focus on small and medium enterprises , through the supply of risk bearing capacity to the eib . ### the purpose of the efsi shall be to strengthen social , economic and territorial cohesion and to support investments in the union and to ensure increased access to financing for companies having up to 3000 employees , with a particular focus on small and medium enterprises , through the supply of risk bearing capacity to the eib .


### an assessment of the added value , the mobilisation of private sector resources , the estimated and actual outputs , outcomes and impact of eib financing and investment operations at an aggregated basis ; ### an assessment of the added value and the social and economic impact , including the mobilisation of private sector resources and job creation , and an assessment of the estimated and actual outputs , outcomes and impact of eib financing and investment operations at an aggregated basis ;


### in its financing and investment operations , the eib shall apply the principles and standards set out in union law on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and terrorist financing , including a requirement to take reasonable measures to identify the beneficial owners where applicable . ### in its financing and investment operations , made under the efsi , through investment platforms , national and regional promotional banks or other vehicle , the eib shall make both direct funding and funding via intermediaries contingent upon disclosure of both country by country tax relevant data along the lines of the crdiv provision for credit institutions , as well as disclosure of beneficial ownership information according to the eu anti - money laundering directive .


### in its financing and investment operations , the eib shall apply the principles and standards set out in union law on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and terrorist financing , including a requirement to take reasonable measures to identify the beneficial owners where applicable . ### in its financing and investment operations , the eib shall apply the principles and standards set out in union law on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and terrorist financing , including a requirement to take reasonable measures to identify the beneficial owners where applicable . in its financing and investment operations under the efsi and through investment platforms and national promotional banks , the eib shall make both direct funding or funding via intermediaries contingent upon the disclosure of both country - by - country tax relevant data along the lines of the crd iv provision for credit institutions , as well as disclosure of beneficial ownership information according to the eu anti - money laundering directive .


### directive 92 / 106 / eec should be simplified and its implementation improved by reviewing the economic incentives to combined transport , with the aim of encouraging the shift of goods from road transport to modes which are more environmentally friendly , safer , more energy efficient and cause less congestion . ### directive 92 / 106 / eec should be simplified and its implementation improved by enhancing the economic incentives to combined transport , with the aim of encouraging the shift of goods from road transport to less polluting modes which are therefore more environmentally friendly , safer , more energy efficient and cause less congestion .


### the current definition of combined transport includes different distance limits for the road legs of a combined transport operation , according to the mode of the non - road leg , and , for rail , the absence of a fixed distance limit but instead takes account of the notion of “nearest suitable terminal” to provide some flexibility to take account of specific situations . that definition has raised many difficulties in its implementation due to various interpretations and specific difficulties to establish the conditions for implementation . it would be useful to lift those ambiguities while also ensuring that some measure of flexibility is retained . ### the current definition of combined transport includes different distance limits for the road legs of a combined transport operation , according to the mode of the non - road leg , and , for rail , the absence of a fixed distance limit but instead takes account of the notion of “nearest suitable terminal” to provide some flexibility to take account of specific situations . that definition has raised many difficulties in its implementation due to various interpretations and specific difficulties to establish the conditions for implementation . it would be useful to lift those ambiguities while also ensuring that a clear and limited measure of flexibility is retained .


### the main infrastructure bottleneck hampering the shift from road freight to other modes of transport is at the transhipment terminal level . the current distribution and coverage of transhipment terminals in the union , at least along the existing ten - t core and comprehensive network , is insufficient yet the capacity of existing transhipment terminals is reaching its limit and will need to develop in order to cope with overall freight traffic growth . investing in transhipment terminal capacity may reduce overall transhipment costs , and hence produce a derived modal shift , as demonstrated in some member states . member states should therefore ensure , in coordination with the neighbouring member states and with the commission , that more combined transport transhipment terminals and transhipment capacity are constructed or made available to transport operators . this would incentivise the use of freight transport alternatives and increase modal shift , thus making combined transport operations more competitive than road transport alone . the increased coverage and capacity of transhipment terminals should , at the very minimum , be established along the existing ten - t core and comprehensive networks . there should be on average at least one suitable transhipment terminal for combined transport located no further than 150 km from any shipment location in the union . ### the main infrastructure bottleneck hampering the shift from road freight to other modes of transport is at the transhipment terminal level . the current distribution and coverage of transhipment terminals in the union , at least along the existing ten - t core and comprehensive network , is in some cases insufficient yet the capacity of existing transhipment terminals is reaching its limit while other terminals are not exploited according to their real capacities that could enable to cope with overall freight traffic growth . investing in transhipment terminal capacity may reduce overall transhipment costs , and hence produce a derived modal shift , as demonstrated in some member states . member states should therefore ensure , in coordination with the neighbouring member states and with the commission , that existing combined transport transhipment terminals and transhipment capacity are modernised , fully exploited and made available to transport operators . this would incentivise the use of freight transport alternatives and increase modal shift , thus making combined transport operations more competitive than road transport alone . the coverage and increased capacity of transhipment terminals should , at the very minimum , be established along the existing ten - t core and comprehensive networks . there should be on average at least one suitable transhipment terminal for combined transport located no further than 150 km from any shipment location in the union .


### since the objectives of this directive to further promote the shift from road transport to more environmentally friendly modes of transport , and hence reduce the negative externalities of the union transport system , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states but can rather , by reason of the primarily cross - border nature of freight combined transport and interlinked infrastructure , and of the problems this directive is intended to address , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality as set out in that article , this directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives ### one of the objectives of this directive is to promote the shift from road transport to more environmentally friendly modes of transport , and hence reduce the negative externalities of the union transport system . because this cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states but , by reason of the primarily cross - border nature of freight combined transport and interlinked infrastructure , and of the problems this directive is intended to address , can rather be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality as set out in that article , this directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives ;


### the number and geographic coverage of terminals servicing combined transport operations and the yearly number of transhipments on those terminals ; ### the number and geographic location coverage of terminals servicing combined transport operations and the yearly number of transhipments on those terminals related to their respective used capacity ;


### the economic development of combined transport , notably in light of the evolution of the environmental performance of different modes of transport ; ### the economic rate and sustainable development of combined transport , notably regarding the environmental performance of different modes of transport and the benefits provided to the concerned regions and transport corridors ;


### member states may take additional measures , to improve the competitiveness of combined transport operations as compared to equivalent alternative road transport operations . ### member states may take additional measures , to improve the competitiveness of combined transport operations as compared to equivalent road transport operations .


### such measures may address any or part of a combined transport operation , such as the operation of a road or non - road leg including the vehicle used on such a leg , or such as the load unit or the transhipment operations . ### such measures may address any or part of a combined transport operation , such as the operation of a road or non - road leg , the vehicle , vessel or load unit used or the transhipment operations .


### member states should comply with the emission reduction commitments set out in this directive for 2020 and 2030 . so as to ensure demonstrable progress towards the 2030 commitments , member states should meet intermediate emission levels in 2025 , set on the basis of a linear trajectory between their emission levels for 2020 and those defined by the emission reduction commitments for 2030 , unless this would entail disproportionate costs . where the 2025 emissions cannot be so limited , member states should explain the reasons in their reports under this directive . ### in order to limit the atmospheric emissions of air pollutants and to effectively contribute to the union objective of achieving air quality that does not give rise to significant negative impacts on and risks to health , and to reducing the levels deposition of acidifying and eutrophying pollutants below critical loads and levels , binding national emission reduction commitments are set in this directive for 2020 , 2025 and 2030 .


### the reports referred to in paragraph 1 may include an evaluation of the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of this directive . ### the reports referred to in paragraph 1 shall include an evaluation of the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of this directive . the evaluation of socioeconomic impacts shall include the impact on economic and industry sectors . where appropriate the assessment shall include impact of the implementation of directive 2010 / 75 / eu on industrial emissions , in particular its reporting requirements according to article 73 of directive 2010 / 75 / eu on industrial emissions . industrial installations covered by the directive 2010 / 75 / eu and already applying best available techniques shall not be forced to implement additional measures , except under article 18 of directive 2010 / 75 / eu .


### member states shall ensure by appropriate means that audiovisual media services provided by media service providers under their jurisdiction do not contain any incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . ; ### member states shall ensure by appropriate means that audiovisual media services provided by media service providers under their jurisdiction do not contain any incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to sex , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation .


### ‘ include or promote any discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , nationality , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; ’ ### paragraph 1 , point c , point ii is amended as follows : ‘ include or promote any discrimination based on sex , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation ; ’


### member states and the commission shall encourage the development of self - and co - regulatory codes of conduct regarding inappropriate audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages . those codes should be used to effectively limit the exposure of minors to audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages . ### commercial communications for alcoholic beverages and gambling activities shall be kept to a minimum . member states and the commission shall encourage the development of self - and co - regulatory codes of conduct in order to achieve this objective .


### member states shall take appropriate measures to ensure that programmes provided by audiovisual media service providers under their jurisdiction , which may impair the physical , mental or moral development of minors are only made available in such a way as to ensure that minors will not normally hear or see them . such measures may include selecting the time of the broadcast , age verification tools or other technical measures . they shall be proportionate to the potential harm of the programme . ### member states shall take appropriate measures to ensure that programmes provided by audiovisual media service providers under their jurisdiction , which may impair the physical , mental or moral development of minors , such as advertising for alcoholic beverages or gambling , are only made available in such a way as to ensure that minors will not normally hear or see them . such measures may include selecting the time of the broadcast , age verification tools or other technical measures . they shall be proportionate to the potential harm of the programme .


### to ensure that member state authorities can impose effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties in relation to widespread infringements of consumer law and to widespread infringements with a union dimension that are subject to coordinated investigation and enforcement in accordance with regulation 2017 / 2394 , fines should be introduced as a mandatory element of penalties for such infringements . in order to ensure deterrence of the fines , member states should set in their national law the maximum fine for such infringements at a level that is at least 4 % of the trader ' s annual turnover in the member state concerned . ### to ensure that member state authorities can impose effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties in relation to widespread infringements of consumer law and to widespread infringements with a union dimension that are subject to coordinated investigation and enforcement in accordance with regulation 2017 / 2394 , fines should be introduced as a mandatory element of penalties for such infringements . in order to ensure deterrence of the fines , member states should set in their national law the fines for such infringements at a level that is at least 4 % of the trader ' s overall total annual turnover in the member state concerned .


### directive 2011 / 83 / eu already applies to contracts for the supply of digital content which is not supplied on a tangible medium regardless of whether the consumer pays a price in money or provides personal data . in contrast , directive 2011 / 83 / eu only applies to service contracts , including contracts for digital services , under which the consumer pays or undertakes to pay a price . consequently , that directive does not apply to contracts for digital services under which the consumer provides data to the trader without paying a price . given their similarities and the interchangeability of paid digital services and digital services provided in exchange for personal data , they should be subject to the same rules under directive 2011 / 83 / eu . ### directive 2011 / 83 / eu already applies to contracts for the supply of digital content which is not supplied on a tangible medium regardless of whether the consumer pays a price in money or provides data . in contrast , directive 2011 / 83 / eu only applies to service contracts , including contracts for digital services , under which the consumer pays or undertakes to pay a price . consequently , that directive does not apply to contracts for digital services under which the consumer provides data to the trader without paying a price . given their similarities and the interchangeability of paid digital services and digital services provided in exchange for data , they should be subject to the same rules under directive 2011 / 83 / eu .


### consistency should be ensured between the scope of application of directive 2011 / 83 / eu and the [ digital content directive ] , which applies to contracts for the supply of digital content of digital services under which the consumer provides personal data to the trader . ### consistency should be ensured between the scope of application of directive 2011 / 83 / eu and the [ digital content directive ] , which applies to contracts for the supply of digital content of digital services under which the consumer provides data to the trader .


### therefore , the scope of directive 2011 / 83 / eu should be extended to cover also contracts under which the trader supplies or undertakes to supply a digital service to the consumer , and the consumer provides or undertakes to provide personal data . similar to contracts for the supply of digital content which is not supplied on a tangible medium , the directive should apply whenever the consumer provides or undertakes to provide personal data to the trader , except where the personal data provided by the consumer is exclusively processed by the trader for supplying the digital content or digital service , and the trader does not process this data for any other purpose . any processing of personal data should comply with regulation 2016 / 679 . ### therefore , the scope of directive 2011 / 83 / eu should be extended to cover also contracts under which the trader supplies or undertakes to supply a digital service to the consumer , and the consumer provides or undertakes to provide data . similar to contracts for the supply of digital content which is not supplied on a tangible medium , the directive should apply whenever the consumer provides or undertakes to provide data to the trader , except where the data provided by the consumer is exclusively processed by the trader for supplying the digital content or digital service , and the trader does not process this data for any other purpose . any processing of personal data should comply with regulation 2016 / 679 .


### where digital content and digital services are not supplied in exchange for a price , directive 2011 / 83 / eu should also not apply to situations where the trader collects personal data exclusively to maintain in conformity digital content or a digital service or for the sole purpose of meeting legal requirements . such situations could include cases where the registration of the consumer is required by applicable laws for security and identification purposes , or cases where the developer of open - source software only collects data from users to ensure the compatibility and interoperability of open - source software . ### where digital content and digital services are not supplied in exchange for a price , directive 2011 / 83 / eu should also not apply to situations where the trader collects data exclusively to maintain in conformity digital content or a digital service or for the sole purpose of meeting legal requirements . such situations could include cases where the registration of the consumer is required by applicable laws for security and identification purposes , or cases where the developer of open - source software only collects data from users to ensure the compatibility and interoperability of open - source software .


### article 16 of the charter of fundamental rights of the eu guarantees the freedom to conduct a business in accordance with union law and national laws and practices . however , marketing across member states of products as being identical when , in reality , they have a significantly different composition or characteristics may mislead consumers and cause them to take a transactional decision that they would not have taken otherwise . ### article 16 of the charter of fundamental rights of the eu guarantees the freedom to conduct a business in accordance with union law and national laws and practices . however , marketing of products as being seemingly identical or similar when , in reality , they have different composition or characteristics , without the consumer being clearly and comprehensively informed thereof , may mislead consumers and cause them to take a transactional decision that they would not have taken otherwise . assessments of whether different composition or characteristics exist may vary depending on the facts and circumstances of each case , but generally speaking , in cases where : one or more ingredients or their ratio in the product differs from another marketed product under the same or similar trademark or designation ; this difference may change the economic behaviour of the average consumer , who would have taken a different purchasing decision where he was aware of such a difference . in order to assess whether the appearance is seemingly identical , any words , data , trademarks , brand names , illustrations or symbols relating to a particular product and placed on the package , the document , the inscription or the label in the field of vision most likely to be spotted by the consumer at first glance and which will enable him to recognise the product immediately in terms of its characteristics , taste or nature and , where appropriate , its trademark , shall be taken into account .


### where appropriate , the intentional or negligent character of the infringement ; ### the intentional or negligent character of the infringement ;


### member states shall ensure that the penalties for widespread infringements and widespread infringements with a union dimension within the meaning of regulation no 2017 / 2934 include the possibility to impose fines , the maximum amount of which shall be at least 4 % of the trader’s annual turnover in the member state or member states concerned . ### member states shall ensure that the penalties for widespread infringements and widespread infringements with a union dimension within the meaning of regulation no 2017 / 2934 include the possibility to impose fines , the amount of which shall be at least 4 % of the trader’s total global annual turnover in the member state or member states concerned .