### (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 and nature-based solutions 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 economic recovery presents a unique opportunity to accelerate the pace of transition towards climate neutrality by prioritising investments into decarbonisation and sustainable technologies. there must be safeguards to ensure that no eu money will flow into obsolete projects , like fossil fuel infrastructure , leaving us with stranded investments. reaching this target will require action by all sectors of the economy , including the rolling-out of sustainable forms of private and public transport and freight service and a new approach to urban planning ensuring a just and fair transition leaving no one behind. 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. furthermore , all initiatives under next generation eu recovery plan should respect the european green deal’s “do no harm” oath and should contribute to mainstreaming biodiversity action in the union policies.


### (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 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 to complement the european green deal that would include a new monitoring mechanism to ensure that europe remains on track to meet its environmental objectives. the european green deal also announced that the commission would launch a dashboard to monitor progress against all of the european green deal objectives.


### (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 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 to complement the european green deal that will include a new monitoring mechanism to ensure that europe remains on track to meet its environmental objectives. the egd also announced that the commission will launch a dashboard to monitor progress against all of the european green deal objectives.


### (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 at the latest , which is already established in the 7th eap and in the commission's communication “a clean planet for all: a european strategic long-term vision for a prosperous , modern , competitive and climate neutral economy”1 while taking into account the lessons learnt from evaluation of the 7th eapa. the eu should , with the eap and other policies , strive for global leadership in achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals , enabling a systemic change towards a union economy that guarantees wellbeing within planetary boundaries.


### (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 ensure that the union meets all the commitments of the biodiversity strategy , including protecting at least 30 % of the union’s marine and terrestrial areas , and of strictly protecting at least 10 % of these areas. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals , the paris agreement and the international agreements made in the framework of the convention on biological diversity (cbd).


### (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 terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems , 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 for our economies and future generations. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continue to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , safeguards biodiversity , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable resources and decreasing the loss of non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , reduction and efficiency of resource consumption , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience 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 neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , ensuring a non-toxic circular economy , sustainable mobility , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption in all economic sectors , including transport and tourism. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved so that no one is left behind 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 , a toxic-free circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should recognise that these thematic priority objectives are inherently interlinked , addressing both drivers and impacts of environmental damage and that a systemic approach is therefore necessary for their achievement. 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 terrestrial and marine 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.


### (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. implementation , enforcement and accountability are essential. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives by the provision of clear criteria , while systematically evaluating the potential trade-offs between them as well as systematically evaluating 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. that includes publishing the impact assessments the policies are based on and making them accessible immediately upon their completion , in light of the judgment of the european court of justice in case c-57/16 p1a. implementation and enforcement of environmental law are key to a successful environment policy. especially lower levels of governance need support and guidance in order to integrate environmental policy into other sectors.


### (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 efficiently implemented and monitored 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 and ecosystems. moreover , access to information , public participation in decision-making , access to justice in environmental matters and transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority 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. ### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , good global environmental governance as well as synergies and coherence between all internal and external union policies in order to attain policy coherence for sustainable development (pcsd) are key to reaching the union’s environmental and climate objectives. achievement of those is also dependent on achieving all the un 2030 sustainable development goals. the eu should also step up its climate diplomacy especially in sectors that must be tackled on a global level like aviation and maritime transport. our policies must become an example for institutions like icao and imo which should adopt ambitious standards on a global level.


### (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 the planetary boundaries . 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. to achieve this objective , existing frameworks should be considered and , if necessary , adapted to meet the union’s requirements.


### (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 reliable data and robust indicators and should be based on a distance-to-target methodology. 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 , the eurofound’s european quality of life survey (eqls) or monitoring tools relating to non-toxic circular economy , zero pollution , biodiversity protection , 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 , assessment of progress towards the 8th eap’s priority objectives should form part of a larger , coherent and interconnected set of monitoring and governance tools , covering not only environmental , but also social and economic factors. the commission should carry out an assessment of existing monitoring frameworks and indicators at union level , the results of which should lead to the establishment of a set of 'beyond gdp' indicators which measure progress towards a sustainable wellbeing economy.


### (15) the commission and the eea and other relevant agencies should access and re-use the data and indicators provided by the member states in accordance with applicable union legal acts. in addition , other data sources , such as satellite data and processed information from the european earth monitoring programme (copernicus) , the european forest fire information system and the european flood awareness system , or data platforms such as european marine observation and data network or the information platform for chemical monitoring should be utilised. the application of modern digital tools and artificial intelligence allows managing and analysing the data in an effective way and thereby reducing administrative burden whilst increasing timeliness and quality. ### (15) the commission and the eea and other relevant agencies should access , re-use and improve the data and indicators provided by the member states in accordance with applicable union legal acts. in addition , other data sources , such as satellite data and processed information from the european earth monitoring programme (copernicus) , with particular regard to air quality within the copernicus athmosphere monitoring service (cams) , the european forest fire information system and the european flood awareness system , or data platforms such as the european marine observation and data network or the information platform for chemical monitoring should be utilised. the application of modern digital tools and artificial intelligence allows managing and analysing the data in an effective way and thereby reducing administrative burden whilst increasing timeliness and quality. robust and meaningful indicators , based on a distance-to-target methodology , are needed to properly monitor the progress of the european green deal’s objectives.


### (16) furthermore , in accordance with the requirements set out in directives 2003/4/ec , 2007/2/ec and 2019/1024/eu from the european parliament and the council , member states should ensure that the relevant data , information and indicators for monitoring the implementation of the 8th eap are freely available , non-discriminatory , with open access , adequate , of high quality , comparable , up-to-date , user friendly and easily accessible online. ### (16) furthermore , in accordance with the requirements set out in directives 2003/4/ec , 2007/2/ec , 2016/2284/eu and 2019/1024/eu from the european parliament and the council , member states should ensure that the relevant data , information and indicators for monitoring the implementation of the 8th eap are freely available , non-discriminatory , with open access , adequate , of high quality , comparable , up-to-date , user friendly and easily accessible online and offline.


### (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 and the progress made , the 8th eap should be evaluated by the commission in 2024 and 2029. the mid-term evaluation should provide an overview taking into account all indicators and an assessment of their usefulness in achieving the eap’s and the european green deal’s objectives. the 2029 evaluation should be accompanied , if appropriate , by a legislative proposal for the next environmental action programme. this legislative proposal should be presented in a timely manner , to avoid a gap between the 8th and 9th 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 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.


### 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 , sustainable , non-toxic , resource-efficient , nature-friendly , circular , renewable energy-based and resilient economy in a just and inclusive way , 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 endorses and builds on the objectives of the european green deal.


### 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 , clean and smart mobility , wellbeing of citizens , environmental health 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 at the latest that citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted , climate neutrality is achieved , healthy ecosystems provide protection for species and recreation for humans , no pollution occurs and mobility needs are covered in a sustainable way. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and nature is protected , restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. the union strives to set the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally and respects the planetary boundaries as safe operating space.


### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives : ### 2. the 8th eap shall have the following six thematic priority objectives , to be achieved by 2030 at the latest :


### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives : ### 2. the 8th eap shall have the following six interlinked thematic priority objectives , to be achieved by 2030 at the latest:


### 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 union’s climate and environment objectives , to attain or outperform the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 at the latest as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ;


### 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 swift reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ;


### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change; ### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability of society and nature to climate change through nature-based solutions;


### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change; ### continuous progress in enhancing and mainstreaming adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change at all levels of society and across all sectors of the economy and the environment , while improving prevention and preparedness for natural disasters;


### 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 economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , shifting the focus to the well-being of citizens and fulfilling the transition to a non-toxic circular economy , including in the transport and tourism sectors , not only with economic incentives to reduce their waste generation , but also with a policy framework ensuring the recycling and re-use of all the possible components of vehicles , ships and aircrafts and phasing-out land-based internal combustion engines by 2030 at the latest;


### 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 from breathing air , consumption of food and water , mobility and use of everyday items;


### 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 air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems by minimising soil sealing through halting superfluous road and settlement expansion as well as fully implementing the biodiversity strategy and mainstreaming biodiversity protection in all other policy areas;


### 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 ecosystem services and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland marine ecosystems , including ocean degradation , eutrophication and acidification;


### 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. ### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , with the primary aim to ensure efficiency and reduction in the resource use and also to prioritise electrification , directly or indirectly fully renewables-based , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility , the food system , trade and tourism.


### 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. ### promoting environmental sustainability , including energy efficiency and circular economy principles 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 , while internalising climate and environmental externalities.


### 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. ### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to the eu production and consumption footprint , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility , international trade , the food systems and agriculture including eu-driven global deforestation.


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


### ensuring effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through providing appropriate administrative and compliance assurance capacity , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as stepping up action against environmental crime , ### ensuring effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through providing additional administrative and compliance assurance capacity and support to administrations at lower levels concerning environmental protection and impact assessment by providing robust criteria and blueprints , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as improving incentives , including fees and penalties , to reduce risks of non-compliance , stepping up responses to environmental non-compliance and taking action against environmental crime , which will need a considerable increase of resources in the relevant departments at european , national and regional level


### — mainstreaming the priority objectives set out in article 2 in all relevant strategies , legislative and non-legislative initiatives , programmes , investments and projects at union , national , regional and local levels so that they and their implementation do no harm to any of the priority objectives set out in article 2; ### — mainstreaming the priority objectives set out in article 2 in all relevant strategies , legislative and non-legislative initiatives , programmes , investments and projects at union , national , regional and local levels so that they and their implementation do no harm


### — maximising the benefits from implementing the directives 2014/52/eu33 and 2001/42/ec34 of the european parliament and of the council; ### — maximising the benefits from implementing the directives 2014/52/eu33 and 2001/42/ec34 of the european parliament and of the council , not only in respect of the highest procedural standards but also regarding their underlying spirit , which is of particular concern in relation to transport-related infrastructure planning;


### — 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 synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives for all initiatives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , housing , clean intermodal transport , smart mobility and recreation are met in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind;


### – 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; ### – paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , energy , water , food security , housing and mobility are met 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 , informed and simple to implement , and which pay due regard to projected immediate and long-term impacts on environment , biodiversity and climate and that take into account the costs of action and non-action in terms of immediate and long-term 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 the sdgs , environmental and climate sustainability as well as biodiversity protection 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 extending , without weakening , the european semester process by integrating the union's climate and environmental objectives , notably biodiversity objectives , as well as including them in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans , in order to provide member states with analysis and indicators on top of the existing economic indicators , thus better reflecting the current challenges our union faces in reducing its ecological footprint and making the process a driver of change towards sustainable wellbeing for all in europe;


### 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 , in full accordance with the eu taxonomy regulation , and particularly further developed prioritisation specifically within the field of transport in accordance to the objectives of the european green deal and the sustainable and smart mobility strategy;


### 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 , also for biodiversity protection and conservation , from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level given their potential to create jobs , sustainable growth and to ensure eus long-term competitiveness and increase the resilience of our economies and societies;


### 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 , consistent with the union's sustainable finance strategy; ensuring that local and regional communities have adequate resources for implementation on the ground;


### 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; ### strengthening environmentally positive incentives while phasing out as early as possible all direct and indirect environmentally harmful subsidies , including fossil fuel and their related infrastructure subsidies , at union and national , subnational and local level by 2022 at the latest , making the best use of market-based instruments and implementing the polluter-pays-principle 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;


### 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 of officials and ordinary citizens , including by research , innovation , fostering green skills , engagement with civil society , greater use of citizens science as well as open science , e.g. in the area of air quality , taking into account the social dimension of the transition to a circular economy in the transport and tourism sector , including the upskilling and retraining of the workforce , the need for adequate information to change consumer behaviour 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 , 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 technologies and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake , including by research , innovation , fostering green skills , and further building up environmental and ecosystem accounting , as well as fostering the continuous improvement of scientific knowledge on the basis of indicators comparable at regional level as well , in order to inform decision-making;


### 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 minimising their environmental footprint , by setting clear standards for energy and resource consumption of data centers and software in corresponding legislation 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 and social innovation , including by investing more into biodiversity protection and restoration in line with the minimum spending targets agreed through the union budgets and with the funding objectives in the eu biodiversity strategy , which should be tracked by way of a robust methodology that builds on the union's taxonomy criteria as soon as they become available


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of biodiversity-inclusive nature based solutions to maximize ecosystem's connectivity , restoration , benefits , building on synergies between biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation and social innovation;


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of ecosystem approaches , defined under the united nations convention on biological diversity1a and social innovation;


### 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 accordance with the convention on access to information , public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters (aarhus convention)35 and promoting these standards in foreign and trade policy;


### making the data and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available and easily accessible , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation; ### making the data , indicators and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available and easily accessible and evaluable , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation;


### making the data and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available and easily accessible , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation; ### making the data and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available , enhancing cooperation between administrations and allowing citizens to easily access information and identify the relevant competences and responsibilities at all governance levels , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation , with a view to spreading ownership of the 8th eap;


### — 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 , promptly adopting the latest science-based criteria on human and environmental health , such as the air quality guidelines of the world health organisation (who) , and ensuring that all products placed on the union market or exported from the union fully comply with relevant union requirements in line with the union’s international commitments while learning from countries , regions and communities with programmes and policies to live well within the planetary boundaries;


### — 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 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 while safeguarding that indigenous communities are not ignored or deprived from their rights;


### — strengthening international environmental governance by closing remaining gaps and strengthening respect for and application of recognised international environmental principles; ### — – strengthening international environmental governance by closing remaining gaps and strengthening respect for and application of recognised international environmental principles and labour standards also through trade policy and import standards;


### — ensuring that the union and the member states’ financial assistance to third countries promotes the un 2030 agenda. ### — – ensuring that the union and the member states’ financial assistance to third countries promotes the un 2030 agenda and does not undermine any of the sdgs


### monitoring framework ### indicators , monitoring framework and governance


### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on a regular basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3. ### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency shall monitor , assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on an annual basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3.


### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on a regular basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3. ### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on an annual basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3.


### 2. the assessment referred to in paragraph 1 shall reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators , building on data available in the member states and at the union level , in particular those operated by the european environment agency and the european statistical system. this assessment shall be without prejudice to existing monitoring , reporting and governance frameworks and exercises covering environment and climate policy. ### 2. the assessment referred to in paragraph 1 shall reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators , building on data available in the member states and at the union level , in particular those operated by the european environment agency and the european statistical system. this assessment shall be without prejudice to existing monitoring , reporting and governance frameworks and exercises covering environment and climate policy and shall be based on a robust methodology that enables measurement of progress.


### working towards closing the relevant monitoring data gaps; ### working towards closing the relevant monitoring data and assessment gaps;


### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus; ### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus or citizen science programmes;


### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus; ### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts through improved modelling to enable better integration of mitigation and adaptation measures in all sectors , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus;


### further improving access to data through union programmes; ### further improving and promoting access to data through union programmes;


### 4. the commission shall regularly examine data and knowledge needs at union and national level , including the capacity of the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency to carry out the tasks referred to in paragraph 3. ### 4. the commission shall regularly examine data and knowledge needs at union and national level , including the capacity of the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency to carry out the tasks referred to in paragraph 3 and ensure that these agencies have sufficient human and financial resources to perform additional tasks.


### by 31 march 2029 , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of the 8th eap. the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and to the council containing the main findings of that evaluation , accompanied , if the commission deems appropriate , by a legislative proposal for the next environmental action programme. ### in 2024 , the commission shall carry out a mid-term evaluation of the 8th eap , assessing the framework , the division of work and the progress to date. by 31 march 2029 , the commission shall carry out the final evaluation of the 8th eap. the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and to the council containing the main findings and conclusions of that evaluation including its observations , accompanied by a legislative proposal for the next environmental action programme. such a legislative proposal shall be presented in a timely manner , with a view to avoiding a gap between the 8th and the 9th eap.


### 2. reaching the 8th eap’s priority objectives will require mobilising broad support by involving citizens , social partners and other stakeholders , and encouraging cooperation in the development and implementation of strategies , policies or legislation related to the 8th eap amongst national , regional and local authorities , in urban and rural areas. ### 2. public authorities at all levels shall work with businesses - in particular smes - and social partners , civil society , citizens and other stakeholders in implementing the 8theap. achieving the 8th eap's priority objectives will require cooperation in the development and implementation of strategies , policies or legislation related to the 8th eap amongst national , regional and local authorities , in urban and rural areas.


### ensuring transparency and accountability; ### ensuring transparency , accessibility and accountability;


### helping civil society , public authorities , citizens , social partners and the private sector identify climate and environmental risks and take action to prevent , mitigate and adapt to them , and fostering their engagement in closing knowledge gaps. ### helping civil society , public authorities at national , regional and local level , citizens , social partners and the private sector identify climate and environmental risks and take action to prevent , mitigate and adapt to them , and fostering their engagement in closing knowledge gaps.


### 2. underlines the notion that recharging electric vehicles in residential and office buildings needs to complement publicly accessible recharging infrastructure; ### 2. underlines the notion that recharging electric vehicles in residential and office buildings needs to complement publicly accessible recharging infrastructure; highlights the need to deploy charging infrastructure capable of smart charging and for greater investment in e-mobility and vehicle batteries , which will facilitate peak shifting and demand response , creating cheaper and more efficient energy electricity grids that require less generation capacity and infrastructure;


### 4. underlines the fact that the renovation of buildings plays an essential role for the decarbonisation , integration of renewables and digitalisation in the transport sector; welcomes , in this regard , the commission’s ambition in the ‘renovation wave’ to double annual energy renovation rates; ### 4. underlines the fact that the renovation of buildings plays an essential role for the decarbonisation , integration of renewables and digitalisation in the transport sector; welcomes , in this regard , the commission’s ambition in the ‘renovation wave’ to at least double annual energy renovation rates for all buildings and increase deep renovations;


### a. whereas buildings are indispensable for reaching the eu’s carbon neutrality , energy efficiency and renewable energy objectives; ### a. whereas buildings are indispensable for reaching the eu’s climate neutrality , energy efficiency and renewable energy objectives;


### 6. highlights the need to employ opportunities for funding of programmes and projects under eu programmes such as connecting europe facility , digital europe plan , european regional development fund and cohesion fund. ### 6. highlights the need to further develop synergies between the new partnership and existing funding mechanisms and to employ opportunities for projects funded under eu programmes such as connecting europe facility , digital europe plan , european regional development fund and cohesion fund , as well as investeu;


### a. whereas the platform economy has become an integral and rapidly growing part of the european transport sector; ### a. whereas the platform economy has become an integral and rapidly growing part of the european transport sector posing both challenges and opportunities for the sector;


### b. whereas precarious self-employment in the platform sector is increasing , particularly for low-skilled platform-determined on-location work1 , including driving and delivery; ### b. whereas precarious self-employment in the platform sector is increasing , particularly for low-skilled platform-determined on-location work1 , including driving and delivery and whereas there is no eu framework that regulates the working conditions , rights and access to social protection of platform workers;


### 1. stresses that the unfair competitive advantages of the platform economy over the traditional economy , based on social dumping and tax avoidance and evasion , are unacceptable; ### 1. stresses that the unfair competitive advantages of the platform economy over the traditional economy , based on social dumping and tax avoidance and evasion and the unclear interface between business and private equipment ownership , are unacceptable; underlines that labour-intensive platforms exerting the prerogatives of employers should abide to all the legal obligations that this entails in terms of payment of income tax , financing of social protection and insurances , responsibility for health and safety , due diligence and corporate social responsibility;


### 2. calls on the commission to come up with a strategy to align the working conditions of platform workers with those of regular employees , with full respect for the diversity of national labour market models and the autonomy of social partners; ### 2. calls on the commission to propose a directive on decent working conditions and rights in the digital economy , covering all workers , including non-standard workers on atypical contracts , workers in platform companies and the self-employed to align the working conditions of those workers with those of regular employees , with full respect for the diversity of national labour market models and the autonomy of social partners; underlines that platform workers should have the right to social protection , including protection for unemployment and sickness , annual leave and special leave; furthermore , stresses that the platforms should be responsible for providing the workers with adequate protective equipment , accident insurances and technical checks and repairs of the vehicles;


### 3. calls on the member states to consider the need for national definitions of self-employed workers , with a rebuttable legal presumption that places the burden of proof on platforms to prove that their workers are not in fact employees; ### 3. calls on the commission to propose a european definition of a worker , with consideration to the criteria established by the court of justice of the european union that has ruled that “worker” means “a natural person who for a certain period of time performs services for and under the direction of another person in return for remuneration” and to put in place a rebuttable legal presumption that places the burden of proof on platforms to prove that their workers are not in fact employees;


### 4. calls on the commission to support member states in finding policy solutions to determine the status of work for platform workers; remains sceptical of the addition of a third category; ### 4. underlines that the solution to determine the status for platform workers is not an addition of a third category;


### 5. emphasises the need for transparency and non-discrimination in transport and tourism platforms , specifically regarding algorithms that affect service , allocation of tasks , pricing , and advertising; ### 5. emphasises the need for transparency and non-discrimination in transport and tourism platforms , specifically regarding algorithms that affect service , allocation of tasks , pricing , the percentage of the fare kept by the platform , rating and rewarding systems , and advertising; underlines the need for protection for platform workers against pre-existing societal biases embedded in algorithms , for example based on gender , religion or ethnicity; furthermore , stresses that platform workers should have the right of co-determination regarding the algorithms; calls on the commission to ensure mandatory human oversight for managerial decisions , such as hiring and or firing employees and appraisals , underlining that the workers must have the right to appeal these decisions;


### 6. emphasises the importance to workers of portability of data between platforms; ### 6. emphasises the importance to workers of the right to portability of data between platforms , including their consumer-sourced ratings;


### 7. welcomes the commission’s intention to modify eu competition rules to ensure that platform workers and the bogus self-employed gain access to collective bargaining; ### 7. calls on the commission’s to take initiatives to ensure that platform workers have the right to get organised , to be represented by trade unions and to gain access to real collective bargaining;


### 8. encourages platform companies to develop training pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options. ### 8. encourages platform companies to develop training and professional development pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options;


### the mark-up does not exceed 15 % of the weighted average infrastructure charge calculated in accordance with article 7b(1) and article 7e of this directive , except where the revenue generated is invested in cross-border sections of a core network corridor identified in accordance with chapter iv of regulation (eu) no 1315/2013 , in which case the mark-up may not exceed 25 % of that weighted average infrastructure charge , or , where two or more member states apply a mark-up in the same corridor , in which case , upon agreement of all member states which are part of that corridor and which neighbour the member states in the territory of which the section of the corridor to which a mark-up is to be applied falls , that mark-up may exceed 25 % but may not exceed 50 % of that weighted average infrastructure charge; ### the mark-up does not exceed 15 % of the weighted average infrastructure charge calculated in accordance with article 7b(1) and article 7e of this directive , except where the revenue generated is invested in cross-border sections of a core network corridor identified in accordance with chapter iv of regulation (eu) no 1315/2013 , where infrastructure costs as well as climate and environmental damage are higher in which case the mark-up may not exceed 50% of that weighted average infrastructure charge ,


### 2. in the case of a new cross-border project , a mark-up may only be added if all member states involved in the project agree. ### deleted


### (3) asbestos is a highly dangerous carcinogenic agent , still affecting different economic sectors , such as building and renovation , mining and quarrying , waste management and firefighting , where workers are at high risk of being exposed. asbestos fibres are classified as carcinogens 1a according to regulation (ec) 1272/2008 of the european parliament and of the council65. when inhaled , airborne asbestos fibres can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer , and the first signs of disease may take an average of 30 years to manifest from the moment of exposure , ultimately leading to work-related deaths. ### (3) asbestos is a highly dangerous carcinogenic agent , still affecting different economic sectors , such as building and renovation , mining and quarrying , waste management , firefighting and also all working places where asbestos is still present and decaying , where workers are at high risk of being exposed. asbestos fibres are classified as carcinogens 1a according to regulation (ec) 1272/2008 of the european parliament and of the council65 and are by far the major cause of work-related cancer , with as much as 78% of occupational cancers recognised in the member states as being related to asbestos. when inhaled , airborne asbestos fibres can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer , and the first signs of disease may take an average of 30 years to manifest from the moment of exposure , ultimately leading to work-related deaths.


### (4) following the new scientific and technological developments in the area , there is scope to improve the protection of workers exposed to asbestos and thus to reduce the probability of workers contracting asbestos-related diseases. for asbestos , being a non-threshold carcinogen , it is not scientifically possible to identify levels below which exposure would not lead to adverse health effects. instead , an exposure-risk relationship (err) can be derived , facilitating the setting of an occupational exposure limit (‘oel’) by taking into account an acceptable level of excess risk. as a consequence , the oel for asbestos should be revised in order to reduce the risk by lowering exposure levels. ### (4) following the new scientific and technological developments in the area , there is scope to improve the protection of workers exposed to asbestos and thus to reduce the probability of workers contracting asbestos-related diseases. for asbestos , being a non-threshold carcinogen , it is not scientifically possible to identify levels below which exposure would not lead to adverse health effects. instead , an exposure-risk relationship (err) can be derived , facilitating the setting of an occupational exposure limit (‘oel’). as a consequence , the oel for asbestos should be revised in order to reduce the risk by lowering exposure levels.


### (7) the limit value for asbestos set out in directive 2009/148/ec should be revised in the light of the commission’s evaluations and recent scientific evidence and technical data. its revision is also an effective way to ensure that preventive and protective measures are updated accordingly in all member states. ### (7) the limit value for asbestos set out in directive 2009/148/ec should be revised in the light of the commission’s evaluations and recent scientific evidence and technical data. strengthened preventive and protective measures are needed to implement such a revision of the limit value in all member states.


### (9) taking into account the relevant scientific expertise and a balanced approach ensuring at the same time adequate protection of workers at union level and avoiding disproportionate economic disadvantages and burdens for the affected economic operators (including smes) , a revised oel equal to 0.01 fibres/cm3 as an 8-hour time-weighted average (twa) should be established. this balanced approach is underpinned by a public health objective aiming at the necessary safe removal of asbestos. consideration has also been given to proposing an oel that takes into account economic and technical considerations to allow an effective removal. ### deleted


### (11) optical microscopy , although it does not allow a counting of the smallest fibres detrimental to health , is currently the most used method for the regular measuring of asbestos. as it is possible to measure an oel equal to 0.01 f/cm³ with phase-contrast microscope (pcm) , no transition period is needed for the implementation of the revised oel. in line with the opinion of the acsh , a more modern and sensitive methodology based on electron microscopy should be used , while taking into account the need for an adequate period of adaptation and for more eu level harmonisation of different electron microscopy methodologies. ### (11) optical microscopy , although it does not allow a counting of the smallest fibres detrimental to health , is currently the most used method for the regular measuring of asbestos. in line with the opinion of the acsh , a more modern and sensitive methodology based on electron microscopy should be used , while taking into account the need for an adequate period of adaptation. in light of the fact that thinner asbestos fibres (<0 ,2μm) are also carcinogenic , those fibres should be taken into account when measuring exposure in the workplace. electron microscopy , which allows the detection of such thinner asbestos fibres should be used for that purpose. the commission should support and facilitate member states with regard to the new methodology for measuring asbestos fibres , in particular through the development of guidelines and providing information on relevant union funds which can be used for that purpose.


### (13) special control measures and precautions are needed for workers exposed or likely to be exposed to asbestos , such as subjecting workers to a decontamination procedure and related training , in order to significantly contribute to reducing the risks related to such exposure. ### (13) special control measures and precautions are needed to lower the concentration of asbestos fibres in the air to as low a level as is technically possible below the limit value. subjecting workers to a decontamination procedure and strengthening the related training requirements are important elements in order to significantly contribute to reducing the risks related to such exposure. in order to ensure a level playing field , an annex to this directive should provide for minimum training requirements , including specific requirements for workers in specialised asbestos removal undertakings.


### (15) employers should take all necessary steps to identify presumed asbestos-containing materials , if appropriate by obtaining information from the owners of the premises as well as other sources of information , including relevant registers. they should record , before the start of any asbestos removal project , the presence or presumed presence of asbestos in buildings or installations and communicate this information to others who may be exposed to asbestos as a result of its use , of maintenance or of other activities in or on buildings. ### (15) employers should be required to carry out a screening for the presence of asbestos-containing materials on the premises prior to the start of any work in buildings , ships , aircrafts or other installations build before the national ban came into force. such screening should be carried out by a qualified and certified operator and should include a diagnosis adapted to the workplace. a report should state either the absence or the presence of asbestos , and its fibre type if present , with a detailed description of the nature of contamination and its precise location and estimated quantities. that operator should communicate this information to others who may be exposed to asbestos as a result of its use , of maintenance or of other activities.


### for the purposes of this directive , ‘asbestos’ means the following fibrous silicates , which are classified as carcinogens 1a according to regulation (ec) 1272/2008*: ### for the purposes of this directive , ‘asbestos’ means the following fibrous silicates , which are meeting the criteria for classification as carcinogens 1a or 1b according to regulation (ec) 1272/2008*:


### work processes shall be designed so as not to produce asbestos dust or , if that proves impossible , to avoid the release of asbestos dust into the air; ### work processes shall be designed so as not to produce asbestos dust or , if that proves impossible , to avoid the release of asbestos dust into the air to a level as low as technically possible by implementing at least the following measures:


### fibre counting shall be carried out by phase-contrast microscope (pcm) in accordance with the method recommended in 1997 by the world health organization (who)* or , wherever possible , any other method giving equivalent or better results , such as a method based on electron microscopy (em). ### fibre counting shall be carried out by electron microscopy or any other method giving equivalent or better results.


### employers shall ensure that no worker is exposed to an airborne concentration of asbestos in excess of 0.01 fibres per cm³ as an 8-hour time-weighted average (twa). ### employers shall ensure that no worker is exposed to an airborne concentration of asbestos in excess of 0 ,001 fibres per cm3 (1 000 fibres per m3) as an 8-hour time-weighted average (twa).


### before beginning demolition or maintenance work , employers shall take , if appropriate by obtaining information from the owners of the premises as well as from other sources of information , including relevant registers , all necessary steps to identify presumed asbestos-containing materials. ### before beginning demolition or maintenance work or renovation works on premises built before the year in which the national asbestos ban entered into force , the employer shall commission a screening to identify the asbestos-containing materials likely to be affected by the work. the premises shall be screened to identify all asbestos-containing materials , in accordance with the requirements of part 6 of annex xvii to regulation (ec) no 1907/2006 and annex i to regulation (eu) no 305/2011. the screening shall be conducted by a qualified and certified operator or authority , taking into account articles 14 and 15 of this directive , and the national building law provisions. such screening shall , where available , be based on information from public asbestos registries. this shall by no means replace the employers’ duty to carry out a comprehensive risk assessment.


### a. whereas sustainable development is a fundamental objective of the eu; whereas the three pillars of sustainable development are the economic , the social and the environmental; whereas sustainable development is based , among other things , on full employment , social progress and fairness; whereas this is a fundamental objective of the eu , as laid down in article 3(3) of the treaty on european union; whereas the emphasis currently lies on economic and environmental sustainability; ### a. whereas sustainable development is a fundamental objective of the eu; whereas the three pillars of sustainable development are the economic , the social and the environmental; whereas sustainable development is based , among other things , on full employment , social progress and fairness; whereas this is a fundamental objective of the eu , as laid down in article 3(3) of the treaty on european union to achieve a highly competitive social market economy , aiming at full employment and social progress; whereas the emphasis currently lies on economic and environmental sustainability;


### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses , however , that the resulting headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty are insufficient to ensure its full implementation; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people; ### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine , the cost of living and energy crises are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates its call to the commission and member states to come up with a social resilience package as a set of measures and means to strengthen social welfare and social protection systems in the eu; highlights the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe and welcomes its action plan in this regard; stresses , however , that the resulting headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty are insufficient to ensure its full implementation; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people;


### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the crises on member state labour markets in order to keep employment rates high; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to commit to reaching collective bargaining coverage of at least 80 % by 2030 , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu , which will contribute to upward social convergence and reduce in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality; ### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the crises on workers , pensioners and vulnerable people and on member state labour markets in order to protect income , ensure decent living standards and keep employment rates high; calls on the commission , the council and member states to take urgent measures to tackle the cost of living crisis , including solidarity measures at eu level , in order to protect employment and incomes , ensure quality jobs and also in the framework of the transposition of the directive on adequate minimum wages and the directive on pay transparency in the eu to increase statutory minimum wages , promote collective bargaining and ensure equal pay for work of equal value; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to commit to reaching collective bargaining coverage of at least 90 % by 2030 , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu , which will contribute to upward social convergence and reduce in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality;


### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker protection in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners; ### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker protection in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace and highlights the need for further actions to ensure the achievement of the target of zero deaths at work and because of work; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners;


### 4. notes that , even with the support to mitigate unemployment risks in an emergency (sure) instrument as part of the european unemployment reinsurance scheme , the economic fallout of the covid-19 crisis has lasted longer than anticipated; highlights , however , that thousands of jobs were saved thanks to this instrument and that the shock to the labour market was less severe than expected; notes , in this regard , that this instrument should remain in use for the duration of the current exceptional situation and continue to be based on loans and quickly activated only in the event of external financial or economic shocks; ### 4. notes that , even with the support to mitigate unemployment risks in an emergency (sure) instrument , the economic fallout of the covid-19 crisis has lasted longer than anticipated; highlights , however , that thousands of jobs were saved thanks to this instrument; notes , in this regard , that this instrument should be made permanent;


### 5. calls on the commission to put forward a legal framework for an effective and enforceable ban on unpaid internships , traineeships and apprenticeships; welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; calls on the commission to consider a directive on adequate minimum income in order to ensure the reintegration of people absent from the labour market , while respecting the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law; ### 5. notes that the lack of a binding legal framework for quality traineeships has resulted into higher social exclusion rates of young people from the labour market , especially those from vulnerable backgrounds and people with disabilities; calls on the commission to propose a directive to ensure minimum quality standards , including rules on duration and fair remuneration for traineeships in the open labour market to ensure decent standards of living; stresses the individual right to training and life-long learning and the obligation to develop strategic jobs and skills planning at both company , sector and regional levels; welcomes , in this context , the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling in particular for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; stresses the role of the trade unions in skills strategies for the green economy at every level , to ensure that such training takes place during working hours and without wage cuts , as well as to provide detailed information on the skills needed for the twin transitions; calls on the commission to consider a directive on adequate minimum income in order to ensure its level is above their national at risk poverty rate and the reintegration of people absent from the labour market for those who can work , while respecting the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on telework and the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law;


### 6. notes that , although many legislative and non-legislative initiatives have been initiated by the commission , so far the eu has fallen short on fully implementing the epsr; stresses the need for further legislative action by the commission and the member states to ensure its full implementation , with a specific focus on implementing principles 11 (childcare) , 12 (social protection) , 19 (housing) and 20 (essential services); ### 6. notes that , although many legislative and non-legislative initiatives have been initiated by the commission , so far the eu has fallen short on fully implementing the epsr; stresses the need to make sure that the action plan for the implementation of the pillar - which should include legislative and non-legislative measures- is reviewed regularly to ensure that the eu continues to progress to improve working and living conditions; stresses the need for further legislative action by the commission and the member states to ensure its full implementation , with a specific focus on the improvement of living and working conditions including , among others , implementing principles 1 (education training and life-long learning , 5 (secure and adaptable employment) , 8 (social dialogue and involvement of workers) , 10 (healthy , safe and well-adapted work environment and data protection) , 11 (childcare) , 12 (social protection) , 19 (housing) and 20 (essential services);


### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to be expanded in order to cover the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality; calls on the commission and the member states to build upon the social climate fund and lay the foundations for the development of green social protection schemes at national level with eu support; ### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to be expanded in order to cover the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups and workers in different sectors , especially those carrying out their work outdoors such as in the construction sector , firefighters or agricultural sector , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality; calls on the commission and the member states to build upon the social climate fund and lay the foundations for the development of green social protection schemes at national level with eu support;


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; recalls of the right to energy; stresses the importance of banning disconnections during critical times for vulnerable households and energy poor customers;


### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which have come under additional stress; urges the commission to present a revision of the services of general and economic interest; ### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis following the introduction of austerity measures , privatisation of public services and de-regulation of labour market institutions have been massively underfunded; highlights that less developed regions , rural and sparsely populated areas have been disproportionately affected by these policies , exacerbating the growing economic , social and territorial disparities across eu regions; urges the commission to present a revision of the services of general and economic interest and to ensure that these services are accessible to all , particularly to the elderly and persons with disabilities; member states should also ensure that increasing online services are effectively provided to all , including those for which technology and digitalisation can be real challenges and which could be left behind;


### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to revise the directive in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers to collective bargaining , to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu; ### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu and national funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular green and social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , especially in the context of the just transition , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls for a european just transition observatory to monitor the implementation of all policies and measures related to the european green deal; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to revise the directive in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers to collective bargaining , as well as to exclude companies that refuse to participate in collective bargaining , engage in union busting , have been condemned for engaging in criminal activities and environmental disasters and damages and to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu;


### 12. highlights the need to strengthen the social dimension of the european semester and the implementation of the epsr , especially in the light of the economic governance review; calls on the commission to consider presenting an instrument for upward social convergence in order to prevent social convergence risks , detect potential setbacks in the proper implementation of the epsr and establish social targets; believes that social divergence risks should be included in the country-specific recommendations and taken into account when laying out fiscal adjustment paths; ### 12. highlights the need to strengthen the social dimension of the european semester and the implementation of the epsr , especially in the light of the economic governance review; recalls that a deep review of eu fiscal rules must support green and social investments to ensure a just transition for all; calls on the commission to amortise social investments and the national co-financing of cohesion funds in deficit and debt calculations to address the social investment gap and territorial cohesion , as well as to propose fair taxation policies; welcomes the inclusion of investments in the epsr implementation as one of the basis for a more gradual debt adjustment , as proposed by the commission; highlights that such adjustment need to be even more gradual to allow enough time for social investments to bear fruit; calls on the commission to consider the social imbalance procedure (sip) as proposed by some member states in the first porto summit in the european semester to identify , prevent and address the social imbalances that could negatively affect working and living condition in order to prevent social convergence risks , detect potential setbacks in the proper implementation of the epsr and establish social targets; believes that social divergence risks should be included in the country-specific recommendations and taken into account when laying out fiscal adjustment paths; believes that csrs should establish measurable and binding targets on social objectives , aiming at the reduction of inequalities and social-economic exclusion in line with the pillar of social rights and the sustainable development goals; stresses the need to make the semester process more democratic including stronger role for ep and ensuring full involvement of social partners at eu , national and regional level;


### 15. calls on the commission to present a governance framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of safeguarding jobs , including access to adequate training , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes; ### 15. calls on the commission to present a legal framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of safeguarding jobs , including access to adequate training during working time and without wage cuts , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes including by promoting collective bargaining on the anticipation , management and negotiations with workers for every aspect that concerns them throughout the just transition , and especially in the creation of the new jobs that it will generate;


### proposal for a directive of the european parliament and of the council on combating violence against women and domestic violence ### proposal for a directive of the european parliament and of the council on combating gender-based violence and domestic violence


### (1) the purpose of this directive is to provide a comprehensive framework to effectively combat violence against women and domestic violence throughout the union. it does so by strengthening and introducing measures in the following areas: the definition of relevant criminal offences and penalties , the protection of victims and access to justice , victim support , prevention , coordination and cooperation. ### (1) the purpose of this directive is to provide a comprehensive framework to effectively combat gender-based violence and domestic violence throughout the union. it does so by strengthening and introducing measures in the following areas: the definition of relevant criminal offences and penalties , the protection of victims and access to justice , victim support , prevention , coordination and cooperation.