### — to amend annexes to this regulation so as to adopt and review the union list of projects of common interest , while respecting the right of the member states and third countries to approve projects of common interest or projects of mutual interest related to their territory. ### — amending the annexes to this regulation so as to adopt and review the union list of projects of common interest , while respecting the right of the member states and third countries to approve projects of common interest or projects of mutual interest related to their territory.


### taking into account the need to ensure the achievement of the objectives of this regulation , in view of the number of project on union lists so far , the total number of projects of common interest should remain manageable , and therefore should not significantly exceed 220. the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure the simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council. where they consider this necessary , the european parliament and the council may each send experts to meetings of the commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts to which member states' experts are invited. the discussions in the regional groups are instrumental for the commission to adopt the delegated acts establishing the lists of projects of common interest. therefore , it is appropriate , to the extent possible and compatible with the framework of this regulation , that the european parliament and council are informed about and may send experts to the meetings of regional groups in line with the 2016 interinstitutional agreement on better law making44 . ### taking into account the need to ensure the achievement of the objectives of this regulation , in view of the number of project on union lists so far , the total number of projects of common interest should remain manageable , be presented divided by category and should not significantly exceed 220. the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure the simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council. where they consider this necessary , the european parliament and the council may each send experts to meetings of the commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts to which member states' experts are invited. the discussions in the regional groups are instrumental for the commission to adopt the delegated acts establishing the lists of projects of common interest. therefore , it is appropriate , to the extent possible and compatible with the framework of this regulation , that the european parliament and council are informed about and may send experts to the meetings of regional groups in line with the 2016 interinstitutional agreement on better law making44 .


### (5) ‘project of mutual interest’ means a project promoted by the union in cooperation with third countries; ### (5) ‘project of mutual interest’ means a project promoted by the union in cooperation with third countries falling under the energy infrastructure categories (1)(a) ,(b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii;


### 4. the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 20 of this regulation amending annexes to this regulation in order to establish the union list of projects of common interest (‘union list’) , subject to the second paragraph of article 172 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union. ### 4. the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 20 of this regulation amending annexes to this regulation in order to establish the union list of projects of common interest (‘union list’) divided into categories in accordance with annex ii , subject to the second paragraph of article 172 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union.


### the third country or countries involved have a high level of regulatory alignment or convergence to support the overall policy objectives of the union , in particular to ensure: ### the third country or countries involved have a high level of regulatory alignment or convergence and have demonstrated effective legal enforcement mechanisms to support the overall policy objectives of the union , in particular to ensure:


### for carbon dioxide transport projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in point (5) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to all of the following specific criteria: ### deleted


### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , or renewable hydrogen , into the gas distribution and transmission networks in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria: ### deleted


### as regards smart electricity grids and smart gas grids projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in points (1)(d) and point (2) of annex ii , ranking shall be carried out for those projects that affect the same two member states , and due consideration shall also be given to the number of users affected by the project , the annual energy consumption and the share of generation from non-dispatchable resources in the area covered by those users. ### deleted


### the progress achieved in the development , construction and commissioning of the project , in particular with regard to permit granting and consultation procedures as well as compliance with environmental legislation , with the principle that the project “does not do significant harm” to the environment , and climate adaptation measures taken; ### the progress achieved in the development , construction and commissioning of the project , in particular with regard to permit granting and consultation procedures as well as compliance with environmental legislation , with the principle that the project “does not do significant harm” to the environment , and climate adaptation and mitigation measures taken;


### the pre-application procedure shall include the preparation of any environmental reports by the project promoters , as necessary , including the climate adaptation documentation. ### the pre-application procedure shall include the preparation of any environmental reports by the project promoters , as necessary , including the climate mitigation and adaptation documentation.


### the competent authorities shall ensure that permit granting is accelerated in line with this chapter for each category of projects of common interest. to that end , the competent authorities shall adapt their requirements for the start of the permit granting process and for the acceptance of the submitted application file , to make them fit for projects which , that due to their nature , or smaller scale , may require less authorisations and approvals for reaching the ready-to-build phase , and , therefore , might not require the benefit of the pre-application procedure. such smaller scale projects may include gas and electricity smart grids and electrolysers. ### the competent authorities shall ensure that permit granting is accelerated in line with this chapter for each category of projects of common interest. to that end , the competent authorities shall adapt their requirements for the start of the permit granting process and for the acceptance of the submitted.


### 1. by [16 november 2022] , the european network of transmission system operators (entso) for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish and submit to member states , the commission and the agency their respective methodologies , including the network and market modelling , for a harmonised energy system-wide cost-benefit analysis at union level for projects of common interest falling under the categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) and point (3) of annex ii. ### 1. by [16 november 2022] , the eic shall publish and submit to member states , the commission and the agency a consistent , robust and interlinked methodology , including the network , market and wider socio-economic modelling , for a harmonised energy system-wide cost-benefit analysis at union level for projects of common and mutual interest falling under the categories set out in annex ii.


### those methodologies shall be applied for the preparation of each subsequent union–wide ten-year network development plans developed by the entso for electricity or the entso for gas pursuant to article 8 of regulation (ec) no 715/2009 and article 30 of regulation (eu) 2019/943. those methodologies shall be drawn up in line with the principles laid down in annex v and be consistent with the rules and indicators set out in annex iv. ### the cost-benefit analysis shall be performed by the eic according to annex v.


### 3. the entso for electricity and the entso for gas , shall update the methodologies taking due account of the agency’s opinion , as referred to in paragraph 2 , and submit them to the commission for its opinion. ### 3. the eic shall update the methodology taking due account of the agency’s opinion , as referred to in paragraph 2 , and submit it to the commission for its opinion.


### 4. within three months of the day of receipt of the updated methodologies , the commission shall submit its opinion to the entso for electricity and the entso for gas. ### 4. within three months of the day of receipt of the updated methodology , the commission shall submit its opinion to the eic.


### 5. no later than three months of the day of receipt of the commission’s opinion , as referred to in paragraph 4 , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall adapt their respective methodologies taking due account of the commission’s opinion , and submit them to the commission for approval. ### 5. no later than three months of the day of receipt of the commission’s opinion , as referred to in paragraph 4 , the eic shall adapt their respective methodology taking due account of the commission’s opinion , and submit it to the commission for approval.


### 6. where the changes to the methodologies are considered to be of incremental nature , not affecting the definition of benefits , costs and other relevant cost-benefit parameters , as defined in the latest energy system wide cost-benefit analysis methodology approved by the commission , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall adapt their respective methodologies taking due account of the agency’s opinion , as set out in paragraph 2 , and submit them for the agency’s approval. ### deleted


### 7. in parallel , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall submit to the commission a document justifying the reasons behind the proposed updates and why those updates are considered of incremental nature. where the commission deems that those updates are not of incremental nature , it shall , by written request , ask the entso for electricity and the entso for gas to submit to it the methodologies. in such case the process described in paragraphs 2 to 5 applies. ### deleted


### 8. within two weeks of the approval by the agency or the commission in accordance with paragraphs 5 and 6 , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish their respective methodologies on their websites. they shall publish the corresponding input data and other relevant network , load flow and market data in a sufficiently accurate form in accordance with national law and relevant confidentiality agreements. ### 8. within two weeks of the approval by the agency or the commission in accordance with paragraphs 5 , the eic shall publish their respective methodology on their website. they shall publish the corresponding input data and other relevant network , load flow and market data in a form sufficiently accurate to allow a third party to reproduce the results in accordance with national law and relevant confidentiality agreements.


### 9. the methodologies shall be updated and improved regularly following the procedure described in paragraphs 1 to 6. the agency , on its own initiative or upon a duly reasoned request by national regulatory authorities or stakeholders , and after formally consulting the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders and the commission , may request such updates and improvements with due justification and timescales. the agency shall publish the requests by national regulatory authorities or stakeholders and all relevant non-commercially sensitive documents leading to a request from the agency for an update or improvement. ### 9. the methodology shall be updated and improved regularly following the procedure described in paragraphs 1 to 6. the agency , on its own initiative or upon a duly reasoned request by national regulatory authorities or stakeholders , and after formally consulting the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders and the commission , may request such updates and improvements with due justification and timescales. the agency shall publish the requests by national regulatory authorities or stakeholders and all relevant non-commercially sensitive documents leading to a request from the agency for an update or improvement.


### 12. the consistent and interlinked model referred to in paragraph 11 shall cover at least the respective sectors’ interlinkages at all stages of infrastructure planning , specifically scenarios , infrastructure gaps identification in particular with respect to cross-border capacities , and projects assessment. ### 12. the consistent and interlinked model referred to in paragraph 1 shall cover at least the respective sectors’ interlinkages at all stages of infrastructure planning , specifically scenarios , infrastructure gaps identification in particular with respect to cross-border capacities , and projects assessment.


### 3. the entso for electricity and entso for gas shall invite the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the union dso entity and all relevant hydrogen stakeholders , to participate in the scenarios development process. ### deleted


### 6. the commission , giving due consideration to the agency opinion defined under paragraph 5 , shall submit its opinion to the entso for electricity and the entso for gas. ### 6. the commission , giving due consideration to the agency opinion defined under paragraph 5 , shall submit its opinion to the eic.


### 7. the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall adapt their joint scenarios report , taking due account of the agency’s opinion , in line with the commission’s opinion and submit the updated report to the commission for its approval. ### 7. the eic shall adapt their scenarios report , taking due account of the agency’s opinion , in line with the commission’s opinion and submit the updated report to the commission for its approval.


### 8. within two weeks of the approval of the joint scenarios report by the commission in accordance with paragraph 7 , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish their joint scenarios report on their websites. they shall publish the corresponding input and output data in a sufficiently accurate form , taking due account of the national law and relevant confidentiality agreements. ### 8. within two weeks of the approval of the scenarios report by the commission in accordance with paragraph 7 , the eic shall publish their scenarios report on their website. they shall publish the corresponding input and output data in a sufficiently accurate form for a third party to reproduce the results , taking due account of the national law and relevant confidentiality agreements.


### not later than 31 december 2027 , the commission shall publish a report on the implementation of projects of common interest and submit it to the european parliament and the council. that report shall provide an evaluation of: ### not later than 31 december 2026 , the commission shall publish a report on the implementation of projects of common interest and submit it to the european parliament and the council. that report shall provide an evaluation of:


### (12) cross-border carbon dioxide network: development of carbon dioxide transport infrastructure between member states and with neighbouring third countries in view of the deployment of carbon dioxide capture and storage. ### deleted


### (2) concerning smart gas grids: ### deleted


### underground storage facilities connected to the high-pressure hydrogen pipelines referred to in point (a); ### underground storage facilities connected to hydrogen pipelines referred to in point (a);


### reception , storage and regasification or decompression facilities for liquefied hydrogen or hydrogen embedded in other chemical substances with the objective of injecting the hydrogen into the grid; ### storage compression and decompression facilities for liquefied hydrogen with the objective of injecting the hydrogen into the pipelines referred to in point (a)


### (5) concerning carbon dioxide: ### deleted


### (5) each group shall invite , as appropriate , the organisations representing relevant stakeholders — and , where deemed appropriate , directly the stakeholders— including producers , distribution system operators , suppliers , consumers and organisations for environmental protection. the group may organise hearings or consultations , where relevant for the accomplishments of its tasks. ### (5) each group shall invite , as appropriate , the organisations representing relevant stakeholders — and , where deemed appropriate , directly the stakeholders— including producers , distribution system operators , suppliers , consumers and organisations for environmental protection as well as representatives of local population associations. the group may organise hearings or consultations , where relevant for the accomplishments of its tasks.


### for projects having reached a sufficient degree of maturity , a project-specific cost-benefit analysis based on the methodologies developed by the entso for electricity or the entso for gas pursuant to article 11; ### for projects having reached a sufficient degree of maturity , a project-specific cost-benefit analysis based on the methodologies developed by the eic pursuant to article 11 and annex v;


### (4) as of 1 january 2024 , the proposed hydrogen projects of common interest falling under the categories set out in point (3) of annex ii are projects that are part of the latest available union-wide ten-year network development plan for gas , developed by the entso for gas pursuant article 8 of regulation (ec) no 715/2009. ### deleted


### (5) by 30 june 2022 and , subsequently , for every union-wide ten-year network development plans , the entso for electricity and entso for gas shall issue updated guidelines for inclusion of projects in their respective union-wide ten-year network development plans , referred to in points (3) and (4) , in order to ensure equal treatment and transparency of the process. for all the projects included in the union list of projects of common interest in force at the time , the guidelines shall define a simplified process of inclusion in the union-wide ten-year network development plans by automatic inclusion taking into account the documentation and data already submitted during the previous union-wide ten-year network development plan processes as long as the information therein remains valid. ### (5) by 30 june 2022 and , subsequently , for every union-wide ten-year network development plans , the agency shall issue updated guidelines for inclusion of projects in their respective union-wide ten-year network development plans , referred to in points (3) , in order to ensure equal treatment and transparency of the process. for all the projects included in the union list of projects of common interest in force at the time , the guidelines shall define a simplified process of inclusion in the union-wide ten-year network development plans by taking into account the documentation and data already submitted during the previous union-wide ten-year network development plan process as long as the information therein remains valid.


### (6) concerning smart gas grid projects falling under the category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the criteria listed in article 4 shall be evaluated as follows: ### deleted


### (1) the area for the analysis of an individual project shall cover all member states and third countries , on whose territory the project is located , all directly neighbouring member states and all other member states significantly impacted by the project. for this purpose , entso for electricity and entso for gas shall cooperate with all the relevant system operators in the relevant third countries. ### (1) the area for the analysis of an individual project shall cover all member states and third countries , on whose territory the project is located , all directly neighbouring member states and all other member states significantly impacted by the project. for this purpose , entso for electricity shall cooperate with all the relevant system operators in the relevant third countries.


### (9) the union’s energy infrastructure should be upgraded in order to prevent technical failure and to increase its resilience against such failure , natural or man-made disasters , adverse effects of climate change and threats to its security , in particular as regards european critical infrastructures pursuant to council directive 2008/114/ec26 . ### deleted


### (27) projects of common interest should be implemented as quickly as possible and should be closely monitored and evaluated , while keeping the administrative burden for project promoters to a minimum. the commission should nominate european coordinators for projects facing particular difficulties. the progress in the implementation of the specific projects as well as the fulfilment of the obligations pertaining to this regulation should be taken into account in the selection process for subsequent union lists for the respective projects. ### (27) projects of common interest should be implemented as quickly as possible and should be closely monitored and evaluated , while not compromising stakeholder participation or environmental legislation and keeping the administrative burden for project promoters to a minimum. the commission should nominate independent european coordinators following an open and transparent process , for projects facing particular difficulties. the progress in the implementation of the specific projects as well as the fulfilment of the obligations pertaining to this regulation should be taken into account in the selection process for subsequent union lists for the respective projects.


### (50) in order to ensure that the composition of the priority corridors and thematic areas reflects in the best manner the development of energy infrastructure and that the number of candidate projects in each group remains appropriate and reasonable as to allow a comprehensive thorough assessment , and to ensure that the union list of projects of common interest is limited to projects which contribute the most to the implementation of the strategic energy infrastructure priority corridors and thematic areas , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission: ### (50) in order to ensure that the composition of the priority corridors and thematic areas reflects in the best manner the development of energy infrastructure and that the number of candidate projects in each group remains appropriate and reasonable as to allow a comprehensive thorough assessment , and to ensure that the union list of projects of common interest is limited to projects which contribute the most to the implementation of the strategic energy infrastructure priority corridors and thematic areas , this regulation should be reviewed by 30 june 2027 , especially with a view to:


### — to supplement this regulation by reviewing the scope and composition of the priority corridors and thematic areas and adopting new lists of priority corridors and thematic areas; ### — reviewing the scope and composition of the priority corridors and thematic areas and adopting new lists of priority corridors and thematic areas;


### (14) ‘commissioning’ means the process of bringing a project into operation once it has been constructed; ### (14) ‘commissioning’ means the process of bringing a project into operation once it has been created;


### 4. for projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in points (1) to (4) of annex ii , the contribution to the criteria listed in paragraph 3 of this article shall be assessed in accordance with the indicators set out in points (3) to (7) of annex iv. ### 4. the contribution to the criteria listed in paragraph 3 of this article of projects falling under all energy infrastructure categories set out in annex ii shall be assessed based on a consideration of , inter alia:


### 5. in order to facilitate the assessment of all projects that could be eligible as projects of common interest and that could be included in a regional list , each group shall assess each project’s contribution to the implementation of the same priority corridor or area in a transparent and objective manner. each group shall determine its assessment method on the basis of the aggregated contribution to the criteria referred to in paragraph 3. that assessment shall lead to a ranking of projects for internal use of the group. neither the regional list nor the union list shall contain any ranking , nor shall the ranking be used for any subsequent purpose except as described in point (14) of section 2 of annex iii. ### 5. in order to facilitate the assessment of all projects that could be eligible as projects of common interest and that could be included in a regional list , each group shall assess each project’s contribution to the implementation of the same priority corridor or area in a transparent and objective manner. each group shall determine its assessment method on the basis of the aggregated contribution to the criteria referred to in paragraph 3. that assessment shall lead to a ranking of projects that shall be made available to the public.


### assist all parties as necessary in consulting concerned stakeholders and obtaining necessary permits for the projects; ### assist all parties as necessary in consulting concerned stakeholders , proposing and discussing alternative routing or projects and , where appropriate , obtaining necessary permits for the projects;


### 3. the european coordinator shall be chosen on the basis of his or her experience with regard to the specific tasks assigned to him or her for the projects concerned. ### 3. the european coordinator shall be chosen following an open and transparent process on the basis of their experience with regard to the specific tasks assigned to them for the projects concerned.


### 1. the adoption of the union list shall establish , for the purposes of any decisions issued in the permit granting process , the necessity of those projects from an energy policy perspective , without prejudice to the exact location , routing or technology of the project. ### 1. the adoption of the union list shall establish , for the purposes of any decisions issued in the permit granting process , the necessity of those projects from an energy and climate policy perspective , without prejudice to the exact location , routing or technology of the project.


### 4. where it is not already required under national law at the same or higher standards , at least one public consultation shall be carried out by the project promoter , or , where required by national law , by the competent authority , before submission of the final and complete application file to the competent authority pursuant to article 10(1)(a). that public consultation shall be without prejudice to any public consultation to be carried out after submission of the request for development consent pursuant to article 6(2) of directive 2011/92/eu. the public consultation shall inform the stakeholders referred to in point (3)(a) of annex vi about the project at an early stage and shall help to identify the most suitable location or trajectory , also in view of adequate climate adaptation considerations for the project , and the relevant issues to be addressed in the application file. the public consultation shall comply with the minimum requirements set out in point (5) of annex vi. the project promoter shall publish on the website referred to in paragraph 7 of this article a report explaining how the opinions expressed in the public consultations were taken into account by showing the amendments made in the location , trajectory and design of the project or by justifying why such opinions have not been taken into account. ### 4. where it is not already required under national law at the same or higher standards , at least one public consultation shall be carried out by the project promoter , or , where required by national law , by the competent authority , before submission of the final and complete application file to the competent authority pursuant to article 10(1)(a). that public consultation shall be without prejudice to any public consultation to be carried out after submission of the request for development consent pursuant to article 6(2) of directive 2011/92/eu. the public consultation shall inform the stakeholders referred to in point (3)(a) of annex vi about the project at least 3 months before the start of the permit granting process , and shall help to identify the most suitable location or trajectory as well as alternatives , also in view of adequate climate mitigation and adaptation considerations for the project , and the relevant issues to be addressed in the application file. the public consultation shall comply with the minimum requirements set out in point (5) of annex vi. the project promoter shall publish on the website referred to in paragraph 7 of this article a report explaining how the opinions expressed in the public consultations were taken into account by showing the amendments made in the location , trajectory and design of the project or by justifying why such opinions have not been taken into account.


### project promoters shall also publish relevant information by other appropriate information means open to the public. ### project promoters shall also publish relevant information by other appropriate information means open to the public with particular attention to the inclusion of indigenous people and marginalised communities.


### 3. any valid studies conducted and permits or authorisations issued for a given project of common interest , before entering the permit granting process in line with this article , shall be taken into consideration by the competent authorities in the permit granting process and no longer required. ### deleted


### 13. after approval of the consistent and interlinked model referred to in paragraph 11 by the commission in accordance with the procedure set out in paragraphs 1 to 6 , it shall be included in the methodologies referred to in paragraph 1. ### 13. after approval of the consistent and interlinked model referred to in paragraph 1 by the commission in accordance with the procedure set out in paragraphs 1 to 6 , it shall be included in the methodologies referred to in paragraph 1.


### 1. every two years the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish and submit to the commission and the agency the infrastructure gaps reports developed within the framework of the union-wide ten-year network development plans. ### 1. every two years the eic shall publish and submit to the commission and the agency the infrastructure gaps reports developed within the framework of the union-wide ten-year network development plan.


### 2. the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall submit their respective draft infrastructure gaps report to the agency and the commission for their opinion. ### 2. the eic shall submit its respective draft infrastructure gaps report to the agency and the commission for their opinion.


### 4. the commission , considering the agency’s opinion referred to in paragraph 3 , shall draft and submit its opinion to the entso for electricity or the entso for gas. ### 4. the commission , considering the agency’s opinion referred to in paragraph 3 , shall draft and submit its opinion to the eic.


### the progress achieved in the planning , development , construction and commissioning of projects of common interest selected pursuant to article 3 , and , where relevant , delays in implementation and other difficulties encountered; ### the progress achieved in the planning , development , creation and commissioning of projects of common interest selected pursuant to article 3 , and , where relevant , delays in implementation and other difficulties encountered;


### the progress achieved in terms of integration of renewable energy sources and reduced greenhouse gas emissions through the planning , development , construction and commissioning of projects of common interest selected pursuant to article 3; ### the progress achieved in terms of integration of renewable energy sources and reduced greenhouse gas emissions through the planning , development , creation and commissioning of projects of common interest selected pursuant to article 3;


### (4) each group shall invite , as appropriate for the purpose of implementing the relevant priority designated in annex i , promoters of a project potentially eligible for selection as a project of common interest as well as representatives of national administrations , of regulatory authorities , and tsos from third countries. the decision to invite third country-representatives shall be based on consensus. ### (4) each group shall invite , as appropriate for the purpose of implementing the relevant priority designated in annex i , promoters of a project potentially eligible for selection as a project of common interest as well as representatives of national administrations , regulatory authorities , local authorities and civil society from third countries. the decision to invite third country-representatives shall be based on consensus.


### (6) as regards the meetings of the groups , the commission shall publish , on a platform accessible to stakeholders , the internal rules , an updated list of member organisations , regularly updated information on the progress of work , meeting agendas , as well as meeting minutes , where available. the deliberations of the decision-making bodies of the groups and the project ranking in accordance with article 4(5) are confidential. ### (6) as regards the meetings of the groups , the commission shall publish , on a platform accessible to the public , the internal rules , an updated list of member organisations , regularly updated information on the progress of work , meeting agendas , a list of meeting participants as well as meeting minutes.


### (7) the commission , the agency and the groups shall strive for consistency between the different groups. for that purpose , the commission and the agency shall ensure , when relevant , the exchange of information on all work representing an interregional interest between the groups concerned. ### (7) the commission , the agency , the eic and the groups shall strive for consistency between the different groups. for that purpose , the commission and the agency shall ensure , when relevant , the exchange of information on all work representing an interregional interest between the groups concerned.


### (3) the proposed electricity transmission and storage projects of common interest falling under the categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii are projects that are part of the latest available union-wide ten-year network development plan for electricity , developed by the entso for electricity pursuant article 30 of regulation (eu) 2019/943. the proposed electricity transmission and storage projects of common interest falling under the categories set out in point (1)(e) of annex ii are projects that derive from and are consistent with the integrated offshore network development plan referred to in article 14 (2). ### (3) the proposed projects of common and mutual interest are part of the latest available union-wide ten-year network development plan developed by the eic. the proposed electricity transmission , distribution and storage projects of common interest falling under the categories set out in point (1)(e) of annex ii are projects that derive from and are consistent with the integrated offshore network development plan referred to in article 14 (2).


### the entso for electricity and entso for gas shall consult with the commission and the agency about their respective draft guidelines for inclusion of projects in the union-wide ten-year network development plans and take due account of the commission’s and the agency’s recommendations before the publication of the final guidelines. ### the agency shall consult with the commission and the eic about the draft guidelines for inclusion of projects in the union-wide ten-year network development plans and take due account of the commission’s and the eic's recommendations before the publication of the final guidelines.


### (14) where , on the basis of the regional lists received , and after having taken into account the agency opinion , the total number of proposed projects of common interest on the union list would exceed a manageable number , the commission shall consider , after having consulted each group concerned , not to include in the union list projects that were ranked lowest by the group concerned in accordance with the ranking established pursuant to article 4(5). ### (14) where , on the basis of the regional lists received , and after having taken into account the agency opinion , the total number of proposed projects of common interest on the union list would exceed a manageable number for a category , the commission shall consider , after having consulted each group concerned , not to include in the union list projects that were ranked lowest in that category by the group concerned in accordance with the ranking established pursuant to article 4(5).


### (3) the commission’s evaluation of the 7th eap24 concluded that its 2050 vision and priority objectives are still valid; that it has helped to provide more predictable , faster and better-coordinated action in environment policy; and that its structure and enabling framework have helped create synergies , thus making environment policy more effective and efficient. moreover , the evaluation concluded that the 7th eap anticipated the united nation’s 2030 agenda by insisting that economic growth and social wellbeing depend on a healthy natural resource base , and facilitated delivering on the sustainable development goals. it also enabled the union to speak with one voice on the global stage on climate and environmental matters. in its evaluation of the 7th eap , the commission also concluded that progress related to nature protection , health and policy integration was not sufficient. ### (3) the commission’s evaluation of the 7th eap1 concluded that its 2050 vision and priority objectives are still valid; that it has helped to provide more predictable , faster and better-coordinated action in environment policy; and that its structure and enabling framework have helped create synergies , thus making environment policy more effective and efficient. moreover , the evaluation concluded that the 7th eap anticipated the united nation’s 2030 agenda by insisting that economic growth and social wellbeing depend on a healthy natural resource base , and facilitated delivering on the sustainable development goals. it also enabled the union to speak with one voice on the global stage on climate and environmental matters. in its evaluation of the 7th eap , the commission also concluded that progress related to nature protection , health and policy integration was not sufficient. it added that social issues should have been factored in , arguing that the environmental crisis is one affecting society rather than nature. it also noted in its evaluation the low levels of environmental protection expenditure in europe , falling short of requirements , notwithstanding the increasingly ambitious targets being set in this area.


### (3) the commission’s evaluation of the 7th eap24 concluded that its 2050 vision and priority objectives are still valid; that it has helped to provide more predictable , faster and better-coordinated action in environment policy; and that its structure and enabling framework have helped create synergies , thus making environment policy more effective and efficient. moreover , the evaluation concluded that the 7th eap anticipated the united nation’s 2030 agenda by insisting that economic growth and social wellbeing depend on a healthy natural resource base , and facilitated delivering on the sustainable development goals. it also enabled the union to speak with one voice on the global stage on climate and environmental matters. in its evaluation of the 7th eap , the commission also concluded that progress related to nature protection , health and policy integration was not sufficient. ### (3) the commission’s evaluation of the 7th eap24 concluded that its 2050 vision and priority objectives are still valid; that it has helped to provide more predictable , faster and better-coordinated action in environment policy; and that its structure and enabling framework have helped create synergies , thus making environment policy more effective and efficient. moreover , the evaluation concluded that the 7th eap anticipated the united nation’s 2030 agenda by insisting that economic growth and social wellbeing depend on a healthy natural resource base , and facilitated delivering on the sustainable development goals. a healthy environment is therefore the keystone of sustainable development. it also enabled the union to speak with one voice on the global stage on climate and environmental matters. in its evaluation of the 7th eap , the commission also concluded that progress related to nature protection , health and policy integration was not sufficient.


### (4) according to the eea report ‘the european environment – state and outlook 2020 , knowledge for transition to a sustainable europe’ (‘soer 2020’) , 2020 represents a unique window of opportunity for the union to show leadership on sustainability and to face the urgent sustainability challenges requiring systemic solutions. as stated in soer 2020 , the changes in the global climate and ecosystems observed since the 1950s are unprecedented over decades to millennia. the global population has tripled since 1950 , while the population living in cities has quadrupled. with the current growth model , environmental pressures are expected to increase further , causing direct and indirect harmful effects on human health and well-being. this is especially true for the sectors with the highest environmental impact – food , mobility , energy as well as infrastructure and buildings. ### (4) according to the eea report ‘the european environment – state and outlook 2020 , knowledge for transition to a sustainable europe’ (‘soer 2020’) , 2020 represents a unique window of opportunity for the union to show leadership on sustainability and to face the urgent sustainability challenges requiring systemic solutions. as stated in soer 2020 , the changes in the global climate and ecosystems observed since the 1950s are unprecedented over decades to millennia. the global population has tripled since 1950 , while the population living in cities has quadrupled. with the current growth model , environmental pressures are expected to increase further , causing direct and indirect harmful effects on human health and well-being. this is especially true for the sectors with the highest environmental impact – food , mobility , energy as well as infrastructure and buildings. in that regard , it is important to change our approach to mobility and to stop the dogma of individualisation in favour of a common practice of mobility at all scales; to allow the setting up of multimodal platforms for the sustainable transport of passengers and freight; to align european trade policies with european environmental objectives by favouring the reduction of long-distance freight transport with a significant carbon footprint.


### (4) according to the eea report ‘the european environment – state and outlook 2020 , knowledge for transition to a sustainable europe’ (‘soer 2020’) , 2020 represents a unique window of opportunity for the union to show leadership on sustainability and to face the urgent sustainability challenges requiring systemic solutions. as stated in soer 2020 , the changes in the global climate and ecosystems observed since the 1950s are unprecedented over decades to millennia. the global population has tripled since 1950 , while the population living in cities has quadrupled. with the current growth model , environmental pressures are expected to increase further , causing direct and indirect harmful effects on human health and well-being. this is especially true for the sectors with the highest environmental impact – food , mobility , energy as well as infrastructure and buildings. ### (4) according to the eea report ‘the european environment – state and outlook 2020 , knowledge for transition to a sustainable europe’ (‘soer 2020’) , there is a unique but narrow window of opportunity for the union in the next decade to show leadership on sustainability by tackling the urgent sustainability challenges that can only be met by ensuring rapid and far reaching systemic change. as stated in soer 2020 , one of the most important factors underlying europe's persistent environmental and sustainability challenges is that they are inextricably linked to economic activities and lifestyles , in particular the societal systems that provide europeans with necessities such as goods , energy and mobility. ensuring policy coherence with , and full implementation of , existing environmental policies would take europe a long way to achieving its environmental goals up to 2030. however , developing more systemic , long term frameworks with binding targets is also needed. soer 2020 concludes , in addition , that the 2050 vision of 'living well , within the limits of our planet' cannot be achieved by continuing to promote economic growth whilst seeking to manage harmful side effects with environmental and social policy tools. instead , sustainability needs to become the guiding principle for ambitious and coherent policies and actions across all levels and sectors of society.


### (5) the european commission responded to the challenges identified in the soer 2020 by adopting the european green deal25 : a new growth strategy for the twin green and digital transition that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a competitive , climate-neutral and resource-efficient economy. regulation (eu) of the european parliament and of the council26 enshrines into law the union target to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. ### (5) the european commission partially responded to the challenges identified in the soer 2020 by adopting the european green deal25 : a strategy for the twin green and digital transition that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a climate-neutral and resource-efficient economy. regulation (eu) of the european parliament and of the council26 enshrines into law the union target to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.


### (5) the european commission responded to the challenges identified in the soer 2020 by adopting the european green deal25 : a new growth strategy for the twin green and digital transition that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a competitive , climate-neutral and resource-efficient economy. regulation (eu) of the european parliament and of the council26 enshrines into law the union target to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. ### (5) the european commission responded to the challenges identified in the soer 2020 by adopting the european green deal (egd)25 , to which it referred as a new growth strategy for the twin green and digital transition that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a competitive , climate-neutral and resource-efficient economy. however , this framing as a 'growth strategy' risks undermining the primary aim of the egd , which should be to ensure shared prosperity within planetary boundaries as is also set out in the 2050 vision of the 8th eap. when choosing between different policy options under the egd , swiftly achieving climate and other environmental targets while ensuring a just and inclusive transition must be the priority. regulation (eu) of the european parliament and of the council26enshrines into law the union target to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 at the latest.


### (6) the european green deal underpins the next generation eu recovery plan which promotes the investments in key green sectors needed to build resilience , and create growth and jobs in a fair and inclusive society. the recovery and resilience facility which will power the union’s economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis together with the union budget for 2021-2027 , is also based on the priority objectives set out in the european green deal. furthermore , all initiatives under next generation eu recovery plan should respect the european green deal’s “do no harm” oath. ### (6) the european green deal underpins the next generation eu recovery plan which promotes the investments in key green sectors needed to build resilience , and create growth and jobs in a fair and inclusive society. the recovery and resilience facility which will power the union’s economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis together with the union budget for 2021-2027 , is also based on the priority objectives set out in the european green deal. the gearing of the economic recovery offers a unique opportunity to accelerate the pace of the transition to climate neutrality by prioritising investments in decarbonisation and real sustainable technologies. achieving this goal will require action from each mode of transport. this will require opening up the debate on public investment in transport modes that offer no prospect of sustainability for the next decade , questioning energy taxation policy and fuel subsidies. strict environmental criteria for new fuels , including hydrogen , will also have to be put in place to avoid the perpetuation of the fossil fuel industry. furthermore , all initiatives under next generation eu recovery plan should respect the european green deal’s “do no harm” oath.


### (6) the european green deal underpins the next generation eu recovery plan which promotes the investments in key green sectors needed to build resilience , and create growth and jobs in a fair and inclusive society. the recovery and resilience facility which will power the union’s economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis together with the union budget for 2021-2027 , is also based on the priority objectives set out in the european green deal. furthermore , all initiatives under next generation eu recovery plan should respect the european green deal’s “do no harm” oath. ### (6) the european green deal underpins the next generation eu recovery plan which promotes the investments in key green sectors needed to build resilience , and create growth and jobs in a fair and inclusive society. the recovery and resilience facility which will power the union’s economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis together with the union budget for 2021-2027 , is also based on the priority objectives set out in the european green deal and is a key opportunity for accelerating the ecological transition. furthermore , all initiatives under next generation eu recovery plan should respect the “do no harm” principle , as also committed to in the european green deal.


### (7) environment action programmes have guided the development of eu environment policy since the early 1970s. the 7th eap will expire on 31 december 2020 and its article 4 (3) requires the commission , if appropriate , to present a proposal for an eighth environment action programme (8th eap) in a timely manner with a view to avoiding a gap between the 7th and the 8th eap. the european green deal announced the adoption of a new environment action programme. ### (7) environment action programmes have guided the development of eu environment policy since the early 1970s. the 7th eap expired on 31 december 2020 and its article 4 (3) requires the commission , if appropriate , to present a proposal for an eighth environment action programme (8th eap) in a timely manner with a view to avoiding a gap between the 7th and the 8th eap. the european green deal announced the adoption of a new environment action programme. regretfully , the adoption of the proposal did not avoid a gap between the 7th and the 8th eap , despite this being easily avoidable. a new proposal for an eap is always considered appropriate when the eap is due to expire.


### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. the 8theap should guarantee an equitable contribution on behalf of the union to the goals of the paris agreement. it should be grounded in intergenerational justice and ensure that the long-term objective confers equal or enhanced rights to future generations. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals , while acknowledging that goal 8 of the sdgs violates the overall sustainability objectives. the 8th eap , therefore , forms the basis of an eu position to advocate internationally for modification of sustainable development goal 8 in order to remove the requirement of aggregate global growth , to replace it with goals for reducing inequality both within and between nations , and to promote debt cancellation for the global south.


### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should endorse and build on the objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 at the latest. it should also be fully aligned with , and drive forward , the implementation and achievement of the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals (sdgs) , enabling a systemic change towards a union economy that guarantees wellbeing within planetary boundaries while acknowledging that eu member states bear a greater responsibility in delivering the sdgs than developing countries.


### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the commitments under the paris agreement , in particular the target to limit the temperature rise this century to 1.5oc , and the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals.


### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes. a regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing. ### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative wellbeing economy , one that gives back to the planet more than it takes and restores the planet's natural systems. a regenerative growth model does not exist and cannot be pursued as it is fundamentally based on the same logic as conventional growth. the 8th eap should recognise that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depends completely on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. the 8th eap should acknowledge that the economy is a subsystem of the larger biosphere , which is finite and not growing in size , meaning its material throughput cannot keep growing forever. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that departs with the fixation on economic growth , and moves to a model that stays within planetary boundaries , does no harm , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural systems , therefore ensuring the abundance of biodiverse life , healthy ecosystems , renewable and non-renewable resources. through transformative rethinking , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative wellbeing economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ future , wellbeing and right to a healthy environment.


### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes. a regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing. ### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , leading to an improvement in the state of nature , in the functioning of ecosystems on land and sea , and committing to ecosystem-based management and investments in restoration to enable future generations to inherit the world in a better state. a regenerative economy should be compatible with a sustainable wellbeing economy which recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space within planetary boundaries for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , eliminates pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural resources and biodiversity , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous policy monitoring and adjustments , innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative and sustainable wellbeing economy strengthens resilience , improves the state of nature left to future generations , and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate change mitigation , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , the zero pollution ambition , circular economy , including reducing production and consumption and related environmental pressures. it should furthermore identify the necessary actions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , a toxic-free circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. these objectives should be delivered in a socially just and inclusive way without leaving no one behind. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved , as well as laying down actions necessary to achieve these conditions.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption , ensuring a socially fair and inclusive transition. it should furthermore identify the actions necessary to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved.


### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives. ### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable and marginalised groups. moreover , transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives. citizen assemblies and participative democracy can be an important catalyst of the 8th eap.


### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives. ### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives. in the transport sector , the union faces increasing competition from growing actors from other regions of the world and is closely linked to the dynamics of international trade , mainly due to its policy of further liberalisation. this is particularly true in the aviation sector , where the signing of air service agreements with third countries does not help to alleviate the capacity problem , the reduction of emissions from the sector and the deterioration of working conditions.


### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives. ### (12) cooperation in good faith with partner countries , robust global environmental governance as well as consistency between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives. it is crucial that the union engage with the global south countries in a way that fully respects their sovereignty and rights , including the right to a healthy environment.


### (13) the european commission should assess the progress in achieving the priority objectives of the 8th eap by the union and the member states in the context of the transition towards greater sustainability , wellbeing and resilience. this is in line with calls of the council27 and the european economic and social committee28 for measuring economic performance and societal progress “beyond gdp” , and moving towards using well-being as a compass for policy , which is also supported by the oecd29 . ### (13) the european commission should assess the progress in achieving the priority objectives of the 8th eap by the union and the member states in the context of the transition towards a sustainable and resilient wellbeing economy. this is in line with calls of the council27 and the european economic and social committee28 for measuring economic performance and societal progress “beyond gdp” , and moving towards using well-being and environmental health indicators as a compass for policy , which is also supported by the oecd29 . there is no long term plan for economic growth other than the idea that economies can keep growing indefinitely. the short-term thinking inherent to that economic logic has made it very dangerous for future generations , who will have to deal with incredible hardship and ecological breakdown on this current pathway without a plan to deal with economic growth in a finite planet. gdp does not consider environmental and social impacts of economic growth and therefore cannot be considered a useful metric. economic growth is closely linked to increases in production , consumption and resource use and has detrimental effects on the natural environment and human health. it is unlikely that a long-lasting , absolute decoupling of economic growth from environmental pressures and impacts can be achieved at the global scale; therefore , societies need to rethink what is meant by growth and progress and their meaning for global sustainability.


### (13) the european commission should assess the progress in achieving the priority objectives of the 8th eap by the union and the member states in the context of the transition towards greater sustainability , wellbeing and resilience. this is in line with calls of the council27 and the european economic and social committee28 for measuring economic performance and societal progress “beyond gdp” , and moving towards using well-being as a compass for policy , which is also supported by the oecd29 . ### (13) the european commission should assess the progress in achieving the priority objectives of the 8th eap by the union and the member states in the context of the transition towards a resilient , sustainable wellbeing economy within planetary boundaries while ensuring a just and inclusive transition. this is in line with calls of the council27 and the european economic and social committee28 for measuring economic performance and societal progress “beyond gdp” , and moving towards using well-being as a compass for policy , which is also supported by the oecd29.


### (14) the assessment of progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th eap should reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators. it should be coherent with and without prejudice to monitoring or governance tools covering more specific aspects of environment and climate policy , such as in particular regulation 1999/2018 of the european parliament and of the council30 , the environmental implementation review or monitoring tools relating to circular economy , zero pollution , biodiversity , air , water , soil , waste , or any other environment policies. together with other tools used in the european semester , the eurostat sdg monitoring and in the commission’s strategic foresight report31 , it would be part of a coherent interconnected set of monitoring and governance tools. ### (14) the assessment of progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th eap should reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators. it should be coherent with and without prejudice to monitoring or governance tools covering more specific aspects of environment and climate policy , such as in particular regulation 1999/2018 of the european parliament and of the council30 , the environmental implementation review or monitoring tools relating to circular economy , zero pollution , biodiversity , air , water , soil , waste , or any other environment policies. together with other tools used in the european semester , the eurostat sdg monitoring and in the commission’s strategic foresight report31 , it would be part of a coherent interconnected set of monitoring and governance tools. the monitoring of the progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be conducted in a coherent manner using appropriately a new set of key indicators. in this regard , a dedicated stocktaking and monitoring mechanism under the eap should be established.


### (18) in order to take account of evolving policy objectives and the progress made , the 8th eap should be evaluated by the commission in 2029. ### (18) in order to take account of evolving policy objectives , the progress made and the changing impact on future generations , the 8th eap should be extensively evaluated by the commission before 2029 in order to provide a useful assessment ahead of the adoption of the next eap.


### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies enabling conditions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives. ### 1. this decisions sets out a legally binding general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies enabling conditions and related actions necessary for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives.


### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies enabling conditions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives. ### 1. this decisions sets out a legally binding general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies actions necessary for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives.


### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies enabling conditions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives. ### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies actions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives.


### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives. ### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , renewable energy-based and resource-efficient circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives


### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives. ### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , real zero emission , sustainable , toxic-free , resource-efficient , circular , renewable energy-based and resilient society in a just and inclusive way within planetary boundaries , and at protecting , restoring and improving the quality of the environment including air , water , and soil , and at halting and reversing biodiversity loss and tackling the degradation of ecosystems. it reinforces and builds on the objectives of the european green deal.


### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives. ### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , seeking to ensure sustainable , non-toxic and efficient use of our planet’s limited resources , encouraging environmental protection , rehabilitation and improvement in terms of air , water and soil quality , halting and reversing biodiversity loss and combating the deterioration of our ecosystems.


### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives. ### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , renewable energy-based and resource-efficient circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives.


### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing and resilience. ### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and social objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework , contributing as the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing and resilience.


### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing and resilience. ### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing and resilience.


### 1. the 8th eap has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted , no net emissions of greenhouse gases are produced and economic growth is decoupled from resource use and environmental degradation. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and natural capital is protected , restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. the union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally. ### 1. the 8th eap has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that people live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted , removals exceed anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases and the economy is understood as a subsystem of the environment , wherein economic growth is contained within planetary boundaries and the wellbeing of all is maximised. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of all people , biodiversity thrives and recovers , and nature is protected , restored and valued in ways that appreciate its intrinsic value and not just its use value to humans. the union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally and its actions are underpinned by intergenerational justice , considering the impacts of current actions on at least the seventh generation ahead.


### 1. the 8th eap has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted , no net emissions of greenhouse gases are produced and economic growth is decoupled from resource use and environmental degradation. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and natural capital is protected , restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. the union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally. ### 1. the 8th eap shall have the long-term priority objective that by 2050 at the latest citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative and sustainable well-being economy where nothing is wasted and real zero emissions are achieved. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and nature is protected and restored. it also allows for the enhancement of resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. the union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally.


### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives : ### 2. the 8th eap has the following seven thematic priority objectives :


### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives: ### 2. the 8th eap has the following thematic priority objectives:


### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ; ### irreversible and rapid reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural sinks , always prioritising natural sinks over other sinks , in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target , to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 and to contribute equitably to the goals of the paris agreement;


### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ; ### irreversible , swift and predictable reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural sinks in the union , in line with the parliament's climate and environment objectives , to pursue the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target as at least 60 percent and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32


### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change; ### continuous and adequate progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change and significantly increasing ecosystem-based adaptation;


### advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy; ### achieving a new regenerative economic model that increases the wellbeing of all people within planetary boundaries and gives back to the planet more than it takes , acknowledging that economic growth cannot be decoupled in absolute terms from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy;


### advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy; ### advancing towards a regenerative and sustainable well-being society and economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , achieving full transition to a toxic-free circular economy accompanied by science-based binding mid-term and long-term targets for the reduction in the use of primary raw materials and environmental impacts.


### advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy; ### advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy. progress towards a regenerative growth model shall require specific contributions from specific policies such as nature restoration , agriculture and soil management , fisheries management and forestry management. the results of such progress shall be integrated in the european semester and be the focus of country-specific recommendations;


### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environment-related risks and impacts; ### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of all people and animals from environment-related risks and impacts;


### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environment-related risks and impacts; ### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of citizens and animals from environment-related risks and impacts by applying the one-health and one-welfare approaches;


### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environment-related risks and impacts; ### pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment , including for air , water and soil , and protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environment-related risks and impacts , applying a uniform 'one world , one health’ approach to health and wellbeing;


### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems; ### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and improving the health of the environment , notably of air , water , soil , and improving the health and functioning of ecosystems including forests , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems , with at least 30 % of the union’s land and marine areas protected and well connected , including at least 10 % of the union’s land and sea areas strictly protected , as well as implementing the binding nature-restoration targets laid down in union legislation and ensuring ecological management of non-protected lands and waters;


### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems; ### protecting , preserving and restoring nature , including biodiversity , air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems and prioritising rewilding;


### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility and the food system. ### ensuring environmental sustainability and reducing consumption and production and the related environmental and climate pressures , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , international trade , mobility and the food system.


### enabling conditions to achieve this programme’s priority objectives ### actions necessary to achieve this programme’s priority objectives


### enabling conditions to achieve this programme’s priority objectives ### policy actions to achieve this programme’s priority objectives


### – paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , housing and mobility are met in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind; ### – systematically evaluating the interplay between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that people’s human rights to food , housing and mobility are ensured in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind;


### – regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , inclusive , informed and simple to implement , and which pay due regard to projected impacts on environment and climate; ### – regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , inclusive , democratic , informed and implementable , and which assess projected impacts on environment and climate , social impact , and the rights of future generations as well as the costs of non-action;


### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans; ### effectively integrating environmental , climate and social sustainability in economic governance , including in the national recovery and resilience plans , and abolishing the european semester , which has had detrimental social and environmental impacts;


### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans; ### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in all relevant sectoral policies;


### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans; ### effectively integrating the sdgs , environmental and climate sustainability and the notion of delivering a just transition in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans;


### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans; ### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the country-specific recommendations , the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans;


### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level; ### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level using appropriately the criteria laid down by regulation (eu) 2020/852 and the ‘do no significant harm’ principle established therein;


### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level; ### mobilising and providing sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level , and doing so in a sufficient way to adequately finance the achievement of the priority objectives;


### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level , making the best use of market-based instruments and green budgeting tools , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices; ### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level by 2025 at the latest , including phasing out all direct and indirect fossil fuel subsidies as soon as possible and by 2022 at the latest , making the best use of green budgeting tools , and including those required to ensure a socially fair transition.


### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level , making the best use of market-based instruments and green budgeting tools , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices; ### phasing out without delay and by 2025 at the latest all direct and indirect environmentally harmful subsidies , including fossil fuel subsidies , at union and national , sub-national and local level while ensuring that no one is left behind during the swift transition;


### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level , making the best use of market-based instruments and green budgeting tools , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices; ### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices;


### ensuring that environmental policies and action are based on the best available scientific knowledge and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake , including by research , innovation , fostering green skills , and further building up environmental and ecosystem accounting; ### ensuring that environmental policies and action are based on the best available scientific knowledge and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake , as well as making more use of indigenous and local knowledge (ilk) , and increasing funding for the eea;


### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint; ### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy and ensuring that the environmental footprint of digitalisation is fully addressed , with particular attention to energy usage , the internet of things and data centres;


### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint; ### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while increasing the efforts to minimise their environmental footprint , and ensuring transparency and public accessibility of this data;


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of nature based solutions (nbss) while acknowledging that nbss involve a wide range of ecosystems on the land and the sea and putting forward binding guidelines to ensure that the utilization of nbss shall not undermine the rapid phase out of fossil fuels , shall always be implemented with full engagement and consent with indigenous people and local communities where affected and shall always provide biodiversity benefits:


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of ecosystem-based solutions , social innovation and community-led action;


### effectively applying high standards for transparency , public participation and access to justice in accordance with the convention on access to information , public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters (aarhus convention)35 ; ### effectively applying high standards for transparency , public participation and access to justice in full and complete accordance with the convention on access to information , public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters (aarhus convention)35 both at the member states and the union level;


### – engaging with partner countries on climate and environmental action , encouraging and supporting them to adopt and implement rules in these areas that are as ambitious as those of the union , and ensuring that all products placed on the union market fully comply with relevant union requirements in line with the union’s international commitments; ### – engaging with partner countries on climate and environmental action , encouraging and supporting them to adopt and implement rules in these areas that are at least as ambitious as those of the union , and ensuring that all products placed on the union market fully comply with relevant union requirements in line with the union’s international commitments;


### – strengthening the implementation of the paris agreement , the convention on biological diversity and other multilateral environmental agreements by the union and its partners , including by increasing transparency and accountability as regards progress on the commitments made under those agreements; ### – strengthening the implementation of the paris agreement , the convention on biological diversity and other multilateral environmental agreements by the union and its partners , including by increasing transparency and accountability as regards progress on the commitments made under those agreements and ensuring an equitable contribution to all of their goals;