### the measures to ensure better transparency and comparability of prices , tariffs , terms and conditions , and quality of service parameters including those specific to the provision of internet access services , should increase the ability of end - users to optimise their selection of providers and thus benefit fully from competition . ### the measures to ensure better transparency and comparability of prices , tariffs , terms and conditions , and quality of service parameters including those specific to the provision of internet access services , should increase the ability of end - users to optimise their selection of providers and thus benefit fully from competition . any voluntary certification scheme for interactive comparison websites , guides or similar tools shall be independent from any provider of electronic communications , use plain and clear language , use complete and up - to - date information , have transparent methodology , be reliable and accessibility according to web content accessibility guidelines 2 . 0 and have an effective complaints handling procedure .


### contracts are an important means of giving end - users a high level of transparency of information and legal certainty . providers of electronic communications to the public should give end - users clear and comprehensible information on all essential elements of the contract before the end - user is bound by the contract . the information should be mandatory and not be altered except by subsequent agreement of the end - user and the provider . the commission and several national regulatory authorities recently found considerable discrepancies between the advertised speed of internet access services and the speed actually available to end - users . providers of electronic communications to the public should therefore inform end - users , prior to the conclusion of the contract , of the speed and other quality of service parameters which they can realistically deliver at the end - user ' s main location . ### contracts are an important means of giving end - users a high level of transparency of information and legal certainty . providers of electronic communications to the public should give end - users clear and comprehensible information on all essential elements of the contract before the end - user is bound by the contract . the information should be mandatory and not be altered except by subsequent explicit agreement of the end - user and the provider . the commission and several national regulatory authorities recently found considerable discrepancies between the advertised speed of internet access services and the speed actually available to end - users . providers of electronic communications to the public should therefore inform end - users , prior to the conclusion of the contract , of the speed and other quality of service parameters which they can realistically deliver at the end - user ' s main location .


### in order to ensure consistency between the objective and the measures needed to complete the single market for electronic communications pursuant to this regulation and some specific existing legislative provisions and to reflect key elements of evolving decisional practice , directive 2002 / 21 / ec , the directives 2002 / 20 / ec and 2002 / 22 / ec and regulation no 531 / 2012 should be amended . this includes making provision for directive 2002 / 21 / ec and the related directives to be read in conjunction with this regulation , the introduction of strengthened powers of the commission in order to ensure consistency of remedies imposed on european electronic communications providers having significant market power in the context of the european consultation mechanism , harmonisation of the criteria adopted in assessing the definition and competitiveness of relevant markets , the adaptation of the notification system under directive 2002 / 20 / ec in view of the single eu authorisation as well as the repeal of provisions on minimum harmonisation of end - users rights provided in directive 2002 / 22 / ec made redundant by the full harmonisation provided in this regulation . ### in order to ensure consistency between the objective and the measures needed to complete the single market for electronic communications pursuant to this regulation and some specific existing legislative provisions and to reflect key elements of evolving decisional practice , directive 2002 / 21 / ec , the directives 2002 / 20 / ec and 2002 / 22 / ec and regulation no 531 / 2012 should be amended . this includes making provision for directive 2002 / 21 / ec and the related directives to be read in conjunction with this regulation , the introduction of strengthened powers of the commission in order to ensure consistency of remedies imposed on european electronic communications providers having significant market power in the context of the european consultation mechanism , harmonisation of the criteria adopted in assessing the definition and competitiveness of relevant markets , the adaptation of the notification system under directive 2002 / 20 / ec in view of the single eu authorisation as well as the repeal of provisions on minimum harmonisation of end - users rights provided in directive 2002 / 22 / ec made redundant by the harmonisation provided in this regulation .


### national regulatory authorities shall closely monitor and ensure the effective ability of end - users to benefit from the freedoms provided for in article 23 and , compliance with article 23 , and the continued availability of non - discriminatory internet access services at levels of quality that reflect advances in technology and that are not impaired by specialised services . they shall , in cooperation with other competent national authorities , also monitor the effects of specialised services on cultural diversity and innovation . national regulatory authorities shall report on an annual basis to the commission and berec on their monitoring and findings . ### national regulatory authorities and national data protection authorities shall closely monitor and ensure the effective ability of end - users to benefit from the freedoms provided for in article 23 and the continued availability of non - discriminatory internet access services at levels of quality that reflect advances in technology . national regulatory authorities and national data protection authorities shall report on an annual basis to the commission and berec on their monitoring and findings .


### a clear and comprehensible explanation as to how any data volume limitation , the actually available speed and other quality parameters , and the simultaneous use of specialised services with an enhanced quality of service , may practically impact the use of content , applications and services ; ### a clear and comprehensible explanation as to how any data volume limitation , the actual available speed and other quality parameters , may practically impact the use of content , applications and services ;


### their standard contract terms and conditions , including any minimum contractual period , the conditions for and any charges due on early termination of a contract , the procedures and direct charges related to switching and portability of numbers and other identifiers , and compensation arrangements for delay or abuse of switching ; ### their standard contract terms and conditions , including minimum contractual period , the conditions for and any charges due on early termination of a contract , the procedures and direct charges related to switching and portability of numbers and other identifiers , and compensation arrangements for delay or abuse of switching ;


### the information shall be published in a clear , comprehensive and easily accessible form in the official language of the member state where the service is offered , and be updated regularly . the information shall , on request , be supplied to the relevant national regulatory authorities in advance of its publication . any differentiation in the conditions applied to consumers and other end - users shall be made explicit . ### the information shall be published in a clear , comprehensive and easily accessible form in the official language of the member state where the service is offered , and be updated regularly . the information shall , on request , be supplied to the relevant national regulatory authorities in advance of its publication .


### the commission may adopt implementing acts specifying the methods for measuring the speed of internet access services , the quality of service parameters and the methods for measuring them , and the content , form and manner of the information to be published , including possible quality certification mechanisms . the commission may take into account the parameters , definitions and measurement methods set out in annex iii of the directive 2002 / 22 / ec . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 33 . ### berec shall , following consultation with all relevant stakeholders , adopt methods for measuring the speed of internet access services , the quality of service parameters and the methods for measuring them , and the content , form and manner of the information to be published , including possible quality certification mechanisms . berec may take into account the parameters , definitions and measurement methods set out in annex iii of the directive 2002 / 22 / ec . the commission shall be empowered , via implementing acts , to adopt berec ' s proposals regarding the aforementioned measuring methods , in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 33 .


### end - users shall have access to independent evaluation tools allowing them to compare the performance of electronic communications network access and services and the cost of alternative usage patterns . to this end member states shall establish a voluntary certification scheme for interactive websites , guides or similar tools . certification shall be granted on the basis of objective , transparent and proportionate requirements , in particular independence from any provider of electronic communications to the public , the use of plain language , the provision of complete and up - to - date information , and the operation of an effective complaints handling procedure . where certified comparison facilities are not available on the market free of charge or at a reasonable price , national regulatory authorities or other competent national authorities shall make such facilities available themselves or through third parties in compliance with the certification requirements . the information published by providers of electronic communications to the public shall be accessible , free of charge , for the purposes of making available comparison facilities . ### end - users shall have access to independent evaluation tools allowing them to compare the performance of electronic communications network access and services and the cost of alternative usage patterns . to this end , the member states , following consultation with all relevant stakeholders , shall establish a voluntary certification scheme for interactive websites , guides or similar tools . certification shall be granted on the basis of objective , transparent and proportionate requirements , in particular independence from any provider of electronic communications to the public , the use of plain language , the provision of complete and up - to - date information , operation of an effective complaints handling procedure . the information published by providers of electronic communications to the public shall be accessible , free of charge , for the purposes of making available comparison facilities . where possible , existing comparison websites shall be used as basis for the abovementioned independent evaluation tools .


### upon request of the relevant public authorities , providers of electronic communications to the public shall distribute public interest information free of charge to end - users , where appropriate , by the same means as those ordinarily used by them in their communications with end - users . in such a case , that information shall be provided by the relevant public authorities to the providers of electronic communications to the public in a standardised format and may , inter alia , cover the following topics : ### providers of electronic communications to the public shall distribute public interest information free of charge to end - users , where appropriate , by the same means as those ordinarily used by them in their communications with end - users . in such a case , that information shall be provided by the providers of electronic communications to the public in a standardised format and may , inter alia , cover the following topics :


### the means of protection against risks to personal security and unlawful access to personal data when using electronic communications services . ### the means of protection against risks to personal security and unlawful access to personal data when using electronic communications services , including the measures taken by the provider of electronic communications and any impact thereof on personal data protection .


### with effect from 1 july 2012 , the average wholesale charge that the visited network operator may levy on the roaming customer ' s home provider for the provision of regulated data roaming services by means of that visited network shall not exceed a safeguard limit of eur 0 , 25 per megabyte of data transmitted . the safeguard limit shall decrease to eur 0 , 15 per megabyte of data transmitted on 1 july 2013 and to eur 0 , 05 per megabyte of data transmitted on 1 july 2014 and shall , without prejudice to article 19 , remain at eur 0 , 05 per megabyte of data transmitted until 30 june 2022 . ### article 12 is replaced by the following : ' 1 . with effect from 1 july 2012 , the average wholesale charge that the visited network operator may levy on the roaming customer ' s home provider for the provision of regulated data roaming services by means of that visited network shall not exceed a safeguard limit of 10 eur per gigabyte of data transmitted and shall , without prejudice to article 19 , remain at 10 eur per gigabyte of data transmitted until 30 june 2022 . '


### the union is committed to achieving the europe 2020 strategy , which has set the objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , highlighting the role of research and innovation as key drivers of social and economic prosperity and of environmental sustainability and setting itself the goal to increase spending on research and development to reach 3 % of gross domestic product by 2020 while developing an innovation intensity indicator . in this context , the innovation union flagship initiative sets out a strategic and integrated approach to research and innovation , setting the framework and objectives to which future union research and innovation funding should contribute . research and innovation are also key factors for other europe 2020 flagship initiatives , notably on resource efficient europe , an industrial policy for the globalisation era , and a digital agenda for europe . moreover , for achieving the europe 2020 objectives relating to research and innovation , cohesion policy has a key role to play through building capacity and providing a stairway to excellence . ### the union is committed to achieving the europe 2020 strategy , which has set the objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , highlighting the role of research and innovation as key drivers of social and economic prosperity and of environmental sustainability and setting itself the goal to increase spending on research and development to reach 3 % of gross domestic product by 2020 while developing an innovation intensity indicator . in this context , the innovation union flagship initiative sets out a strategic and integrated approach to research and innovation , setting the framework and objectives to which future union research and innovation funding should contribute . research and innovation are also key factors for other europe 2020 flagship initiatives and policy objectives , notably on resource efficient europe , an industrial policy for the globalisation era , climate and energy policy targets , and a digital agenda for europe . moreover , for achieving the europe 2020 objectives relating to research and innovation , cohesion policy has a key role to play through building capacity and providing a stairway to excellence .


### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society and reinforcing public confidence in science , horizon 2020 should favour an informed engagement of citizens and civil society on research and innovation matters by promoting science education , by making scientific knowledge more accessible , by developing responsible research and innovation agendas that meet citizens ' and civil society ' s concerns and expectations and by facilitating their participation in horizon 2020 activities . ### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society horizon 2020 should : promote active participation and informed engagement of citizens , civil society and societal actors in the research and innovation process ; ensure the uptake of the gender dimension ; promote excellent science education ; guarantee the respect of ethical legislation and promoting the emergence of and adherence to the highest ethical standards worldwide ; increase the accessibility and re - use of the results of publicly funded research , in particular scientific publications and data ; develop responsible research and innovation and governance framework agendas that meets citizens ' and civil society ' s concerns and expectations and by reinforcing their participation in the setting of research priorities of horizon 2020 activities .


### smes constitute a significant source of innovation and growth in europe . therefore a strong participation of smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 200315 , is needed in horizon 2020 . this should support the aims of the small business act16 . ### smes constitute a significant source of innovation and growth in europe . therefore a strong participation of smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 200315 , is needed in horizon 2020 . for this , a tool - box of instruments should be developed supporting research and innovation along the different stages of the innovation cycle and taking into account the different sizes and types of smes . horizon 2020 should allocate at least 20% of its budget to smes throughout its implementation . in particular , at least 10% of the horizon 2020 budget will be delivered through the sme instrument which should be managed and implemented by a single dedicated administrative structure .


### a greater impact should also be achieved by combining horizon 2020 and private sector funds within public - private partnerships in key areas where research and innovation could contribute to europe ' s wider competitiveness goals and help tackle societal challenges . the public - private partnerships in the form of joint technology initiatives launched under decision no 1982 / 2006 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 concerning the seventh framework programme of the european community for research , technological development and demonstration activities may be continued using more fit - for - purpose structures . ### a greater impact should also be achieved by combining horizon 2020 and private sector funds within public - private partnerships in key areas where research and innovation could contribute to europe ' s wider competitiveness goals and help tackle societal challenges . the existing public - private partnerships in the form of joint technology initiatives launched under decision no 1982 / 2006 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 concerning the seventh framework programme of the european community for research , technological development and demonstration activities may be continued using more fit - for - purpose structures . in particular , their governance and functioning should be revised to ensure open , transparent , effective and efficient functioning and give the opportunity to a wide range of stakeholder active in their specific areas to participate . in addition , the commission should evaluate the opportunity for including in the joint technology initiatives and other established public - private partnerships the aspect of education , as an essential element of the knowledge - triangle .


### linkages and interfaces shall be implemented across and within the priorities of horizon 2020 . particular attention shall be paid in this respect to the development and application of key enabling and industrial technologies , to bridging from discovery to market application , to cross - disciplinary research and innovation , to social and economic sciences and humanities , to fostering the functioning and achievement of the era , to cooperation with third countries , to responsible research and innovation including gender , and to enhancing the attractiveness of the research profession and to facilitating cross - border and cross - sector mobility of researchers . ### linkages and interfaces shall be implemented across and within the priorities of horizon 2020 . particular attention shall be paid in this respect to the development and application of key enabling and industrial technologies , to bridging from discovery to market application , to involving smes , to cross - disciplinary research and social , organisational and systems innovation , to the integration of social and economic sciences and humanities within horizon 2020 , to fostering the functioning and achievement of the era , to cooperation with third countries , to responsible research and innovation including gender , and to enhancing the attractiveness of the research profession and to facilitating cross - border and cross - sector mobility of researchers .


### particular attention shall be paid to ensuring the adequate participation of , and innovation impact on , small and medium - sized enterprises in horizon 2020 . quantitative and qualitative assessments of sme participation shall be undertaken as part of the evaluation and monitoring arrangements . ### particular attention shall be paid to ensuring the adequate participation of , and innovation impact on , small and medium - sized enterprises throughout the implementation of the horizon 2020 programme . quantitative and qualitative assessments of sme participation shall be undertaken as part of the evaluation and monitoring arrangements .


### specific actions shall be undertaken within the specific objective ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ set out in point 1 of part ii of annex i and each of the specific objectives under the priority ‘ societal challenges’ set out in points 1 to 6 of part iii of annex i . these specific actions shall take the form of a dedicated sme instrument that is targeted at all types of smes with an innovation potential and shall be implemented in a consistent manner and tailored to the needs of smes as set out under the specific objective ‘ innovation in smes’ in point 3 . 3 . of part ii of annex i . ### specific actions shall be undertaken through the establishment of a diversified toolbox of funding and financing instruments at the disposal of smes . specific actions shall be set out under the specific objective ‘ innovation in smes’ in point 3 . 3 of part ii of annex . under those actions , a strong emphasis shall be given to the funding and implementation of a dedicated sme instrument , targeted at all types of smes with an innovation potential , and shall be implemented in a consistent manner by a single dedicated administrative structure , and tailored to the needs of smes . the dedicated sme instrument shall be implemented in the areas identified within the specific objective ' leadership in enabling and industrial technologies ' set out in point 1 of part ii of annex i and within each of the specific objectives under the priority ' societal challenges ' set out in points 1 to 6 of part iii of annex i .


### horizon 2020 may be implemented through public - private partnerships where all the partners concerned commit to support the development and implementation of research and innovation activities of strategic importance to the union ' s competitiveness and industrial leadership or to address specific societal challenges . ### horizon 2020 may be implemented through public - private partnerships where all the partners concerned commit to support the development and implementation of pre - competitive research and innovation activities of strategic importance to the union ' s competitiveness and industrial leadership or to address specific societal challenges .


### financial contributions from the union to joint undertakings established on the basis of article 187 tfeu under the seventh framework programme , subject to the amendment of their basic acts ; to new public - private partnerships set up on the basis of article 187 tfeu ; and to other funding bodies referred to in article [ 55 or ] of regulation no xx / 2012 [ new financial regulation ] . this form of partnerships shall only be implemented where the scope of the objectives pursued and the scale of the resources required justify it ; ### financial contributions from the union to joint undertakings established on the basis of article 187 tfeu under the seventh framework programme , subject to the amendment of their basic acts and to other funding bodies referred to in article [ 55 or ] of regulation no xx / 2012 [ new financial regulation ] , following a cost - benefit analysis and a thorough assessment of the their governance and functioning with regards to criteria of openness , transparency , effectiveness and efficiency , and provided they fulfil the criteria set out in paragraph 3 ;


### entering a contractual agreement between the partners referred to in paragraph 1 , which specifies the objectives of the partnership , respective commitments of the partners , key performance indicators , and outputs to be delivered including the identification of research and innovation activities that require support from horizon 2020 . ### entering a contractual agreement between the partners referred to in paragraph 1 , which specifies the objectives of the partnership , respective commitments , roles and responsibilities of the partners , the principles of governance ensuring open and transparent functioning and participation of stakeholders , key performance indicators , and outputs to be delivered including the identification of research and innovation activities that require support from horizon 2020 .


### public - private partnerships shall be identified in an open and transparent way based on all of the following criteria : ### public - private partnerships shall be identified , established and operate in an open and transparent way . any new establishment shall be based on at least all of the following criteria :


### the added value of action at union level ; ### the demonstration of added value of action at union level ;


### the scale of impact on industrial competitiveness , sustainable growth and socio - economic issues ; ### the potential scale of impact on addressing societal concerns , sustainability or industrial competitiveness ;


### the long - term commitment from all partners based on a shared vision and clearly defined objectives ; ### the long - term commitment from all partners based on a shared vision and clearly defined objectives ; in particular , the financial commitment including in cash of the private sector participants ;


### a clear definition of roles for each of the partners and agreed key performance indicators over the period chosen . ### a clear definition of roles and responsibilities for each of the partners and agreed key performance indicators over the period chosen .


### the european commission shall implement information and communication actions concerning horizon 2020 , including communication measures concerning supported projects and results . budget allocated to communication under horizon 2020 shall also contribute to covering the corporate communication of the union ' s political priorities as far as they are related to the general objective of this regulation . ### the european commission shall implement information and communication actions concerning horizon 2020 , including communication measures concerning supported projects and results . budget allocated to communication under horizon 2020 shall also contribute to covering the communication of the union ' s political priorities as far as they are related to the general objective of this regulation .


### innovation in smes shall stimulate all forms of innovation in smes , targeting those with the potential to grow and internationalise across the single market and beyond . ### ' innovation in smes ' shall provide sme - tailored support to all forms of innovation in smes , through a toolbox of specialised and customised programmes and instrument including : access to seed funding , grants , access to equity and debt finance , mentoring and coaching services , access to r&d networks and clusters . in particular a dedicated sme instrument shall be implemented in the priority areas under ' leadership in enabling and industrial technology ' and ' societal challenges ' .


### the activities shall follow a business - driven agenda . the budgets for the specific objectives ‘ access to risk finance’ and ‘ innovation in smes’ will follow a demand - driven , bottom - up logic , without predetermined priorities . these shall be complemented by the use of financial instruments and a dedicated sme instrument following a policy driven logic within the part on ‘ societal challenges’ and the specific objective ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ . ### the activities shall follow a bottom - up approach . the implementation of the budgets for ' access to risk finance ' and ' innovation in smes ' will follow primarily a demand - driven , bottom - up logic , but exclusively within the thematic priority areas established under the ' societal challenges ' and ' leadership in enabling and industrial technology ' . these shall be complemented by the possible top - down use of the sme instrument as part of pre - commercial procurement or innovative procurement activities , where the pooling at eu level of public procurers needs in the members states can be demonstrated .


### the specific objective ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ shall follow a technology - driven approach to develop enabling technologies that can be used in multiple areas , industries and services . applications of these technologies to meet societal challenges shall be supported together with the societal challenges . ### the specific objective ‘ leadership in enabling and industrial technologies’ shall follow a policy - driven approach to develop enabling technologies that can be used in multiple areas , industries and services .


### all the activities shall take a challenge - based approach , focusing on policy priorities without predetermining the precise choice of technologies or solutions that should be developed . the emphasis shall be on bringing together a critical mass of resources and knowledge across different fields , technologies and scientific disciplines in order to address the challenges . the activities shall cover the full cycle from research to market , with a new focus on innovation - related activities , such as piloting , demonstration , test - beds , support for public procurement , design , end - user driven innovation , social innovation and market take - up of innovations . ### all the activities shall take a challenge - based approach , focusing on policy priorities without predetermining the precise choice of technologies or solutions that should be developed . non - technological , organisational , systems innovation and public sector innovation will be given as much attention as technology driven solutions . the emphasis shall be on bringing together a critical mass of resources and knowledge across different fields , technologies and scientific disciplines in order to address the challenges . the activities shall cover the full cycle from research to market , with a new focus on innovation - related activities .


### smart , green and integrated transport ### smart , green and integrated transport and mobility


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


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


### support internal safety and security through the identification and assessment of the vulnerability of critical infrastructures as vital components of societal functions ; and through the operational performance assessment of technologies related to the digital identity ; address global security challenges including emerging or hybrid threats through the development of advanced tools for information mining and analysis as well as for crisis management ### support internal safety and security through the identification and assessment of the vulnerability of critical infrastructures as vital components of societal functions ; and through the operational , social and ethical performance assessment of technologies related to the digital identity ; address global security challenges including emerging or hybrid threats through the development of advanced tools for information mining and analysis as well as for crisis management


### the aim is to enhance solidarity as well as social , economic and political inclusion and positive inter - cultural dynamics in europe and with international partners , through cutting - edge science and interdisciplinarity , technological advances and organisational innovations . humanities research can play an important role here . research shall support policymakers in designing policies that combat poverty and prevent the development of various forms of divisions , discriminations and inequalities in european societies , such as gender inequalities or digital or innovation divides , and with other world regions . it shall in particular feed into the implementation and the adaptation of the europe 2020 strategy and the broad external action of the union . specific measures shall be taken to unlock excellence in less developed regions , thereby widening participation in horizon 2020 . ### the aim is to enhance solidarity as well as social , economic and political inclusion and positive inter - cultural dynamics in europe and with international partners , through cutting - edge science and interdisciplinarity , technological advances and organisational and social innovations . humanities research including social and political science plays an important role here . research shall support policymakers in designing policies that combat poverty , conflict , war and prevent the development of various forms of divisions , discriminations and inequalities in european societies , such as gender inequalities or digital or innovation divides , and with other world regions . it shall in particular feed into the implementation and the adaptation of the europe 2020 strategy and the broad external action of the union . specific measures shall be taken to unlock excellence in less developed regions , thereby widening participation in horizon 2020 .


### the growing impacts from climate change and environmental problems , such as ocean acidification , ice melting in the arctic , land degradation and use , water shortages , chemical pollution and biodiversity loss , indicate that the planet is approaching its sustainability boundaries . for example , without improvements in efficiency , water demand is projected to overshoot supply by 40 % in 20 years time . forests are disappearing at an alarmingly high rate of 5 million hectares per year . interactions between resources can cause systemic risks – with the depletion of one resource generating an irreversible tipping point for other resources and ecosystems . based on current trends , the equivalent of more than two planet earths will be needed by 2050 to support the growing global population . ### the growing impacts from climate change and environmental problems , such as ocean acidification , ice melting in the arctic , land degradation and use , loss of soil fertility , water shortages , chemical pollution and biodiversity loss , indicate that the planet has approached its sustainability boundaries . for example , without improvements in efficiency , water demand is projected to overshoot supply by 40 % in 20 years time . forests are disappearing at an alarmingly high rate of 5 million hectares per year . interactions between resources can cause systemic risks – with the depletion of one resource generating an irreversible tipping point for other resources and ecosystems . based on current trends , the equivalent of more than two planet earths will be needed by 2050 to support the growing global population .


### the sustainable supply and resource efficient management of raw materials , including their exploration , extraction , processing , re - use , recycling and substitution , is essential for the functioning of modern societies and their economies . european sectors , such as construction , chemicals , automotive , aerospace , machinery and equipment , which provide a total added value of some eur 1 . 3 trillion and employment for approximately 30 million people , heavily depend on access to raw materials . however , the supply of raw materials to the union is coming under increasing pressure . furthermore , the union is highly dependent on imports of strategically important raw materials , which are being affected at an alarming rate by market distortions . moreover , the union still has valuable mineral deposits , whose exploration and extraction is limited by a lack of adequate technologies and hampered by increased global competition . given the importance of raw materials for european competitiveness , the economy and for their application in innovative products , the sustainable supply and resource efficient management of raw materials is a vital priority for the union . ### the sustainable supply and resource efficient management of raw materials , including their exploration , extraction , processing , resource efficient use , re - use , recycling and substitution , is essential for the functioning of modern societies and their economies . european sectors , such as construction , chemicals , automotive , aerospace , machinery and equipment , which provide a total added value of some eur 1 . 3 trillion and employment for approximately 30 million people , heavily depend on access to raw materials . however , the supply of raw materials to the union is coming under increasing pressure . furthermore , the union is highly dependent on imports of strategically important raw materials , which are being affected at an alarming rate by market distortions . moreover , the union still has valuable mineral deposits , whose exploration , extraction and processing is limited by a lack of adequate technologies , by missing investment and hampered by increased global competition . given the importance of raw materials for european competitiveness , the economy and for their application in innovative products , the sustainable supply and resource efficient management of raw materials is a vital priority for the union .


### the ability of the economy to adapt and become more climate change resilient , resource efficient and at the same time remain competitive depends on high levels of eco - innovation , of both a societal and technological nature . with the global market for eco - innovation worth around eur 1 trillion per annum and expected to triple by 2030 , eco - innovation represents a major opportunity to boost competitiveness and job creation in european economies . ### the ability of the economy to adapt and become more climate change resilient , resource efficient and at the same time remain competitive depends on high levels of eco - innovation , of both a societal , organisational and technological nature . with the global market for eco - innovation worth around eur 1 trillion per annum and expected to triple by 2030 , eco - innovation represents a major opportunity to boost competitiveness and job creation in european economies .


### addressing the availability of raw materials calls for co - ordinated research and innovation efforts across many disciplines and sectors to help provide safe , economically feasible , environmentally sound and socially acceptable solutions along the entire value chain . innovation in these fields will provide opportunities for growth and jobs , as well as innovative options involving science , technology , the economy , policy and governance . for this reason , a european innovation partnership on raw materials is being prepared . ### addressing the sustainable use and availability of raw materials calls for co - ordinated research and innovation efforts across many disciplines and sectors to help provide safe , economically feasible , environmentally sound and socially acceptable solutions along the entire value chain . innovation in these fields will provide opportunities for growth and jobs , as well as innovative options involving science , technology , the economy , policy and governance . for this reason , a european innovation partnership on raw materials is being prepared and , for the critical raw materials called rare earths , a european rare earth competency network set up . international co - operation in the field of raw materials , such as the eu - japan - us r&d trilateral on critical raw materials , is also of great importance and should be continued .


### eco - innovation will provide valuable new opportunities for growth and jobs . solutions developed through union level action will counter key threats to industrial competitiveness and enable rapid uptake and replication across the single market and beyond . this will enable the transition towards a green economy that takes into account the sustainable use of resources . partners for this approach will include : international , european and national policy makers ; international and member state research and innovation programmes ; european business and industry ; the european environment agency and national environment agencies ; and other relevant stakeholders . in addition to bilateral and regional cooperation , union level actions will also support relevant international efforts and initiatives , including the intergovernmental panel on climate change , the intergovernmental platform on biodiversity and ecosystem services and the group on earth observations . ### eco - innovation will provide valuable new opportunities for growth and jobs . solutions developed through union level action will counter key threats to industrial competitiveness and enable rapid uptake and replication across the single market and beyond . this will enable the transition towards a green economy that takes into account the sustainable use of resources . partners for this approach will include : international , european and national policy makers ; international and member state research and innovation programmes ; european business and industry and in particular smes , european universities and research institutes ; non - governmental organisations and think - tanks ; the european environment agency and national environment agencies ; and other relevant stakeholders . in addition to bilateral and regional cooperation , union level actions will also support relevant international efforts and initiatives , including the intergovernmental panel on climate change , the intergovernmental platform on biodiversity and ecosystem services , the international resource panel , and the group on earth observations .


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


### the aim is to provide knowledge for the management of natural resources that achieves a sustainable balance between limited resources and the needs of society and the economy . activities shall focus on : furthering our understanding of the functioning of ecosystems , their interactions with social systems and their role in sustaining the economy and human well - being ; and providing knowledge and tools for effective decision making and public engagement . ### the aim is to provide knowledge for the management of natural resources that achieves a sustainable balance between limited resources and the needs of society . activities shall focus on : furthering our understanding of the functioning of ecosystems , their interactions with social systems and their role in sustaining the economy and human well - being ; and providing knowledge and tools for effective decision making and public engagement .


### the aim is to foster all forms of eco - innovation that enable the transition to a green economy . activities shall focus on : strengthening eco - innovative technologies , processes , services and products and boosting their market uptake and replication , with special attention for smes ; supporting innovative policies and societal changes ; measuring and assessing progress towards a green economy ; and fostering resource efficiency through digital systems . ### the aim is to foster all forms of eco - innovation that enable the transition to a green economy . activities shall focus on : strengthening eco - innovative technologies , processes , services and products and boosting their market uptake and replication , with special attention for smes ; supporting innovative policies and societal changes ; measuring and assessing progress towards a green economy ; and fostering resource efficiency through digital systems . in particular the eco - innovation programme successfully implemented under the competitiveness and innovation programme in the previous eu multi - annual financial framework shall be continued under horizon 2020 with an ambitious budgetary allocation .


### more and more biological resources are needed to satisfy market demand for a secure and healthy food supply , bio - materials , biofuels and bio - based products , ranging from consumer products to bulk chemicals . however the capacities of the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems required for their production are limited , while there are competing claims for their utilisation , and often not optimally managed , as shown for example by a severe decline in soil carbon content and fertility . there is under - utilised scope for fostering ecosystem services from farmland , forests , marine and fresh waters by integrating agronomic and environmental goals into sustainable production . ### more and more biological resources are needed to satisfy market demand for a secure and healthy food supply , bio - materials , biofuels and bio - based products , ranging from consumer products to bulk chemicals . however the capacities of the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems required for their production are limited , while there are competing claims for their utilisation , and often not optimally managed , as shown for example by a severe decline in soil carbon content and fertility and fisheries collapse . there is under - utilised scope for fostering ecosystem services from farmland , forests , marine and fresh waters by integrating agronomic and environmental goals into sustainable production and implementing sustainable harvesting of wild fish stocks .


### the aim is to supply sufficient food , feed , biomass and other raw - materials , while safeguarding natural resources and enhancing ecosystems services , including coping with and mitigating climate change . the activities shall focus on more sustainable and productive agriculture and forestry systems which are both resource - efficient and resilient , while at the same time developing of services , concepts and policies for thriving rural livelihoods . ### the aim is to supply sufficient food , feed , biomass and other raw - materials , while safeguarding natural resources including biodiversity , in a european and world - wide perspective and enhancing ecosystems services , including with and mitigating climate change . the activities shall focus on more sustainable , resilient and productive agriculture and forestry systems which are both resource - efficient , protect and add to natural resources , are diverse and can adapt to a changing environment and are resilient , while at the same time developing of services , concepts and policies for divers food systems and thriving rural livelihoods


### europe must reconcile the growing mobility needs of its citizens with the imperatives of economic performance and the requirements of a low - carbon society and climate resilient economy . despite its growth , the transport sector must achieve a substantial reduction in greenhouse gases and other adverse environmental impacts , and must break its dependency on oil , while maintaining high levels of efficiency and mobility . ### europe must reconcile the growing mobility needs of its citizens with the imperatives of economic performance , quality of life and the requirements of a low - carbon society and climate resilient economy . despite its growth , the transport sector must achieve a substantial reduction in greenhouse gases and other adverse environmental impacts , and must break its dependency on oil , while maintaining high levels of efficiency and mobility .


### sustainable mobility can only be achieved through a radical change in the transport system , inspired by breakthroughs in transport research , far - reaching innovation , and a coherent , europe - wide implementation of greener , safer and smarter transport solutions . ### sustainable mobility can only be achieved through a radical change in the transport and mobility system , inspired by breakthroughs in transport and mobility research , far - reaching innovation , and a coherent , europe - wide implementation of greener , healthier , safer and smarter transport and mobility solutions .


### research and innovation must bring about focussed and timely advances that will help achieve key union policy objectives , while boosting economic competitiveness , supporting the transition to a climate - resilient and low - carbon economy , and maintaining global market leadership . ### research and innovation must bring about focussed and timely advances that will help achieve key union policy objectives , while boosting economic competitiveness , improving social standards , supporting the transition to a climate - resilient and renewable based and energy efficient economy , and maintaining global market leadership .


### the transport sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gases and generates up to a quarter of all emissions . transport is 96 % dependent on fossil fuels . meanwhile , congestion is an increasing problem ; systems are not yet sufficiently smart ; alternatives for shifting between different modes of transport are not always attractive ; road fatalities remain dramatically high at 34 000 per year in the union ; citizens and businesses expect a transport system that is safe and secure . the urban context poses specific challenges to the sustainability of transport . ### the transport sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gases and generates up to a quarter of all emissions . transport is 96 % dependent on fossil fuels . meanwhile , congestion is an increasing problem ; its impact on health by particulates , gaseous , noise emissions and lack of physical movement became significant , systems are not yet sufficiently smart ; intermodal solutions and shifting towards more sustainable modes of transport are necessary ; road fatalities remain dramatically high at 34 000 per year in the union ; citizens and businesses expect a transport and mobility system that is safe and secure . the urban context poses specific challenges to the sustainability of transport .


### the problems of pollution , congestion , safety and security are common throughout the union and call for collaborative europe - wide responses . accelerating the development and deployment of new technologies and innovative solutions for vehicles , infrastructures and transport management will be key to achieve a cleaner and more efficient transport system in the union ; to deliver the results necessary to mitigate climate change and improve resource efficiency ; to maintain european leadership on the world markets for transport related products and services . these objectives cannot be achieved through fragmented national efforts alone . ### the problems of pollution , health , congestion , safety and security are common throughout the union and call for collaborative europe - wide responses . accelerating the development and deployment of new technologies and innovative solutions for vehicles , better capacity use of existing infrastructures , stronger and smarter interaction between vehicles and infrastructure , green logistics and mobility management will be key to achieve a cleaner and more efficient transport system in the union ; to deliver the results necessary to mitigate climate change and improve resource efficiency ; to maintain european leadership on the world markets for transport and mobility related products and services . these objectives cannot be achieved through fragmented national efforts alone .


### the aim is to reconcile the growing mobility needs with improved transport fluidity , through innovative solutions for seamless , inclusive , safe , secure and robust transport systems . ### the aim is to reconcile the growing mobility needs with improved transport fluidity , through innovative solutions for seamless , inclusive , safe , healthy , secure and robust transport systems .


### socio - economic research and forward looking activities for policy making ### socio - economic and behavioural research and forward looking activities for policy making


### the aim is to support improved policy making which is necessary to promote innovation and meet the challenges raised by transport and the societal needs related to it . ### the aim is to support improved policy making which is necessary to promote innovation and meet the challenges raised by transport and mobility and the societal and individual needs related to it .


### erc funding shall be awarded in accordance with the following well - established principles . scientific excellence shall be the sole criterion on which erc grants are awarded . the erc shall operate on a ‘ bottom - up’ basis without predetermined priorities . the erc grants shall be open to individual teams of researchers of any age and from any country in the world , working in europe . and the erc shall aim to foster healthy competition across europe . ### erc funding shall be awarded in accordance with the following well - established principles . scientific excellence shall be the sole criterion on which erc grants are awarded . the erc shall operate on a ' bottom - up ' basis without predetermined priorities . the erc grants shall be open to individual teams of researchers of any age and from any country in the world , working in europe . the erc shall aim to foster healthy competition across europe and will ensure unconscious gender bias is properly tackled in evaluation procedures .


### ict underpins innovation and competitiveness across a broad range of private and public markets and sectors , and enables scientific progress in all disciplines . over the next decade , the transformative impact of digital technologies , ict components , infrastructures and services will be increasingly visible in all areas of life . unlimited computing , communication and data storage resources will be available to every citizen on the globe . vast amounts of information and data will be generated by sensors , machines and information - enhanced products , making action at a distance a commonplace , enabling global deployment of business processes and sustainable production sites and bringing a wide range of services and applications . many critical commercial and public services and all key processes of knowledge production in science , learning , business and the public sector will be provided through ict . ict will provide the critical infrastructure for production and business processes , communication and transactions . ict will also be indispensable in contributing to key societal challenges , as well as societal processes such as community formation , consumer behaviour , and public governance , for example by means of social media . ### ict underpins innovation and competitiveness across a broad range of private and public markets and sectors , and enables scientific progress in all disciplines . over the next decade , the transformative impact of digital technologies , ict components , infrastructures and services will be increasingly visible in all areas of life . vast amounts of information and data will be generated by sensors , machines and information - enhanced products , making action at a distance a commonplace , enabling global deployment of business processes and sustainable production sites and bringing a wide range of services and applications . many critical commercial and public services and all key processes of knowledge production in science , learning , business and the public sector will be provided through ict . ict will provide the critical infrastructure for production and business processes , communication and transactions . ict will also be indispensable in contributing to key societal challenges , as well as societal processes such as community formation , consumer behaviour , and public governance , for example by means of social media and collective awareness platforms and tools .


### nanotechnologies are a spectrum of evolving technologies with proven potential , having revolutionary impact in for example materials , ict , life sciences and healthcare and consumer goods once the research is translated into breakthrough products and production processes . ### nanotechnologies are a spectrum of evolving technologies with proven potential , having potentially revolutionary impact in for example materials , ict , life sciences and healthcare and consumer goods once the research is translated into sustainable and competitive products and production processes .


### nanotechnologies have a critical role to play in addressing the challenges identified by the europe 2020 strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth . the successful deployment of these key enabling technologies will contribute to the competitiveness of union industry by enabling novel and improved products or more efficient processes and provide responses to future challenges . ### nanotechnologies have a critical role to play in addressing the challenges identified by the europe 2020 strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth . the successful deployment of these key enabling technologies may contribute to the competitiveness of union industry by enabling novel and improved products or more efficient processes and provide responses to future challenges .


### europe now needs to secure and build on its position in the global market by promoting wide scale cooperation in and across many different value chains and between different industrial sectors to realise the process scale - up of these technologies into viable commercial products . the issues of risk assessment and management as well as responsible governance are emerging as determining factors of future impact of nanotechnologies on society and the economy . ### europe now needs to secure and build on its position in the global market by promoting wide scale cooperation in and across many different value chains and between different industrial sectors to realise the process scale - up of these technologies into safe , sustainable and viable commercial products . the issues of risk assessment and management as well as responsible governance are determining factors of future impact of nanotechnologies on society and the economy , and therefore activities in these areas will be supported in horizon 2020 .


### thus , the focus of activities shall be on the widespread and responsible application of nanotechnologies into the economy , to enable benefits with high societal and industrial impact . to ensure the potential opportunities , including setting - up new companies and generating new jobs , research should provide the necessary tools to allow for standardisation and regulation to be correctly implemented . ### thus , the focus of activities shall be on the responsible and sustainable application of nanotechnologies into the economy , to enable benefits with high environmental , societal and industrial impact . to ensure the potential opportunities , including setting - up new companies and generating new jobs , research should provide the necessary tools to allow for standardisation and regulation to be correctly implemented .


### advancing scientific knowledge of the potential impact of nanotechnologies and nanosystems on health or on the environment , and providing tools for risk assessment and management along the entire life cycle . ### advancing scientific knowledge of the potential impact of nanotechnologies and nanosystems on health or on the environment , and providing fit - for purpose non - animal tools for risk assessment and management along the entire life cycle .


### materials are at the core of industrial innovation and are key enablers . advanced materials with higher knowledge content , new functionalities and improved performance are indispensable for industrial competitiveness and sustainable development across a range of applications and sectors ### materials are at the core of industrial innovation and are key enablers . advanced materials with higher knowledge content , new functionalities and improved performance , in particular in terms of resource and energy efficiency , are indispensable for industrial competitiveness and sustainable development across a range of applications and sectors


### a strong scientific , technological and innovation base in biotechnology , will support european industries securing leadership in this key enabling technology . this position will be further strengthened by integrating the safety assessment and management aspects of the overall risks in the deployment of biotechnology . ### a strong scientific , technological and innovation base in biotechnology , will support understanding implications and impacts of this technology . this position will be strengthened by integrating the health and safety assessment , the economic and environmental impact of use of the technology and the management aspects of the overall and specific risks in the deployment of biotechnology .


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


### boosting cutting - edge biotechnologies as a future innovation driver ### boosting cutting - edge biotechnologies without risk of interference with natural environment and taking into account the precautionary principle as a future innovation driver ;


### the manufacturing sector is of high importance to the european economy , contributing to around 17 % of gdp and accounting for some 22 million jobs in the union in 2007 . with the lowering of economic barriers to trade and the enabling effect of communications technology , manufacturing is subject to strong competition and has been gravitating to countries of lowest overall cost . due to high wages , the european approach to manufacturing therefore has to change radically to remain globally competitive and horizon 2020 can help bring together all the relevant stakeholders to achieve this . ### the manufacturing sector is of high importance to the european economy , contributing to around 17 % of gdp and accounting for some 22 million jobs in the union in 2007 . with the lowering of economic barriers to trade and the enabling effect of communications technology , manufacturing is subject to strong competition and has been gravitating to countries of lowest overall cost . the european approach to manufacturing therefore has to change radically to remain globally competitive and horizon 2020 can help bring together all the relevant stakeholders to achieve this .


### deriving concepts and methodologies for adaptive , ‘ knowledge - based’ business models in customised approaches . ### deriving concepts and methodologies for adaptive , ‘ knowledge - based’ business models in customised approaches . support to development of novel eco - innovation business models and alternative resource - productive approaches .


### the specific objective of space research and innovation is to foster a competitive and innovative space industry and research community to develop and exploit space infrastructure to meet future union policy and societal needs . ### the specific objective of space research and innovation is to foster a competitive and innovative space industry and research community to exploit space infrastructure to meet future union policy and societal needs .


### strengthening the european space sector by boosting space research and innovation is vital to maintain and safeguard europe ' s capability of access to and operations in space in support of union policies , international strategic interests and competitiveness amongst established and emerging space faring nations . ### strengthening the european space sector by boosting space research and innovation is vital to maintain and safeguard europe ' s capability of access to and operations in space in support of union policies , international strategic interests and competitiveness amongst established and emerging space faring nations . activities shall be developed and implemented in a complementary way between the eu , esa and the member states .


### the equity facility and the sme window of the debt facility will be implemented as part of two eu financial instruments that provide equity and debt to support smes ' r&i and growth , in conjunction with the equity and debt facilities under the programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes . ### the equity facility and the sme window of the debt facility will be implemented as part of two eu financial instruments that provide equity and debt to support smes ' r&i and growth , in conjunction with the equity and debt facilities under the programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes . at least one third of the budget of the eu financial instruments of horizon 2020 will be deployed towards smes , through the equity facility and the sme window of the debt facility .


### earmarking may be applied to help achieve particular policy goals , building on the positive experience in the competitiveness and innovation framework programme with earmarking for eco - innovation . ### earmarking shall be applied to help achieve particular policy goals , building on the positive experience in the competitiveness and innovation framework programme with earmarking for eco - innovation , in particular for achieving goals related to the identified societal challenges . in particular , at least one third of the budget shall be earmarked for renewable energy and end - user energy efficiency projects .


### the specific objective is to stimulate growth by means of increasing the levels of innovation in smes , covering their different innovation needs over the whole innovation cycle for all types of innovation , thereby creating more fast - growing , internationally active smes . ### the specific objective is to stimulate sustainable economic development by means of increasing the levels of innovation in smes , covering their different innovation needs over the whole innovation cycle and for all types of smes .


### however , smes have – despite their important economic and employment share and significant innovation potential – size - related problems to become more innovative and more competitive . although europe produces a similar number of start - up companies than the united states of america , european smes are finding it much harder to grow into large companies than their us counterparts . the internationalised business environment with increasingly interlinked value chains puts further pressure on them . smes need to enhance their innovation capacity . they need to generate , take up and commercialise new knowledge and business ideas faster and to a greater extent to compete successfully on fast evolving global markets . the challenge is to stimulate more innovation in smes , thereby enhancing their competitiveness and growth . ### however , smes have – despite their important economic and employment share and significant innovation potential – several types of problems to become more innovative and more competitive including shortage of financial resources and access to finance , shortage in skills in innovation management , weaknesses in networking and cooperation with external parties and insufficient use of public procurement to foster innovation in smes . although europe produces a similar number of start - up companies than the united states of america , european smes are finding it much harder to grow into large companies than their us counterparts . the internationalised business environment with increasingly interlinked value chains puts further pressure on them . smes need to enhance their innovation capacity . they need to generate , take up and commercialise new knowledge and business ideas faster and to a greater extent to compete successfully on fast evolving global markets . the challenge is to stimulate more innovation in smes , thereby enhancing their competitiveness and sustainability .


### mainstreaming sme support ### support to smes through an sme instrument


### smes shall be supported across horizon 2020 . for this purpose a dedicated sme instrument shall provide staged and seamless support covering the whole innovation cycle . the sme instrument shall be targeted at all types of innovative smes showing a strong ambition to develop , grow and internationalise . it shall be provided for all types of innovation , including service , non - technological and social innovations . the aim is to develop and capitalise on the innovation potential of smes by filling the gap in funding for early stage high risk research and innovation , stimulating innovations and increasing private - sector commercialisation of research results . ### a dedicated sme instrument , providing staged support and associated services , financed by at least 10% of the horizon 2020 budget , shall be established and operated under a single management structure , with light administrative regime and a single entry point . the sme instrument shall be targeted at all types of innovative smes showing a potential and ambition to develop , grow and / or internationalise . it shall be provided for all types of innovation , including service , non - technological and social innovations . the aim is to develop and capitalise on the innovation potential of smes by filling the gap in funding for early stage high risk research and innovation , stimulating innovations and increasing private - sector commercialisation of research results . dedicated innovation support services for the smes participating in the sme instrument will be implemented , building on existing structures such as the enterprise europe network and other innovation service providers and mentoring / coaching schemes .


### smes shall be supported across horizon 2020 . for this purpose a dedicated sme instrument shall provide staged and seamless support covering the whole innovation cycle . the sme instrument shall be targeted at all types of innovative smes showing a strong ambition to develop , grow and internationalise . it shall be provided for all types of innovation , including service , non - technological and social innovations . the aim is to develop and capitalise on the innovation potential of smes by filling the gap in funding for early stage high risk research and innovation , stimulating innovations and increasing private - sector commercialisation of research results . ### smes shall be supported across horizon 2020 . for this purpose a dedicated sme instrument shall provide staged and seamless support covering the whole innovation cycle . the sme instrument shall include visible funding modules for simple and fast access and be targeted at all types of innovative smes showing a strong ambition to develop , grow and internationalise . it shall be provided for all types of innovation , including service , non - technological and social innovations . the aim is to develop and capitalise on the innovation potential of smes by filling the gap in funding for early stage high risk research and innovation , stimulating innovations and increasing private - sector commercialisation of research results . the sme instrument shall be implemented in a bottom - up logic with open calls .


### enhancing the innovation capacity of smes ### mainstreaming of smes support and enhancing the innovation capacity of smes


### activities assisting the implementation and complementing the sme specific measures across horizon 2020 shall be supported , notably to enhance the innovation capacity of smes . ### smes shall be supported throughout horizon 2020 . activities assisting the implementation and complementing the sme specific measures across horizon 2020 shall be supported , notably to enhance the innovation capacity of smes . this includes also promoting enhanced participation of smes in the governance of the programme in particular the participation in the setting of research agendas and implementation of the public - private partnerships .


### new technologies and solutions must compete on cost and reliability against highly optimised energy systems with well - established incumbents and technologies . research and innovation are critical to make these new , cleaner , low - carbon , more efficient energy sources commercially attractive on the scale needed . neither industry alone , nor member states individually , are able to bear the costs and risks , for which the main drivers are outside the market . ### new technologies and solutions must compete in energy systems designed for historic incumbents and technologies which have absorbed the vast majority of the world and europe ' s research and subsidies until today . research and innovation are critical to make new , cleaner , renewable and more efficient energy sources commercially attractive on the scale needed . neither industry alone , nor member states individually , are able to bear the costs and risks , for which the main drivers are outside the market .


### activities shall focus on research , development and full scale demonstration of technologies and value chains to make bio - energy more competitive and sustainable , to reduce time to market for hydrogen and fuel cells and to bring new options showing long - term potential to maturity . ### activities shall focus on research , development and demonstration of technologies and value chains to make bio - energy , hydrogen and fuel - cells more sustainable and to bring new options showing long - term potential to maturity .


### activities shall focus on applied innovation to facilitate the market uptake of energy technologies and services , to address non - technological barriers and to accelerate the cost effective implementation of the union ' s energy policies . ### activities shall focus on applied innovation to facilitate the market uptake of energy technologies and services , to address non - technological barriers and to accelerate the cost effective implementation of the union ' s energy policies . in this context the intelligent energy europe programme , successfully implemented throughout the competitiveness and innovation programme shall be continued with an ambitious budgetary allocation under the current horizon 2020 programme .


### the specific objective is to maintain and build global leadership in enabling technologies and space research and innovation , which underpin competitiveness across a range of existing and emerging industries and sectors . ### the specific objective is to maintain and build global leadership through research and innovation in enabling technologies which underpin competitiveness across a range of existing and emerging industries and sectors .


### the successful mastering and deployment of enabling technologies by european industry is a key factor in strengthening europe ' s productivity and innovation capacity and ensuring europe has an advanced , sustainable and competitive economy , global leadership in hi - tech application sectors and the ability to develop effective solutions for societal challenges . the pervasive nature of such activities can spur further progress through complementary inventions and applications , ensuring a higher return on investment in these technologies than in any other field . ### the successful mastering and deployment of enabling technologies by european industry is a key factor in strengthening europe ' s productivity and innovation capacity and ensuring europe has an advanced , sustainable and competitive economy , global leadership in hi - tech application sectors and the ability to develop effective and sustainable solutions for societal challenges . the pervasive nature of such activities can spur further progress through complementary inventions and applications , ensuring a higher return on investment in these technologies than in any other field .


### for parent undertakings of undertakings to be consolidated that together exceed an average number of 500 employees during the financial year , and , on their balance sheet dates , exceed either a balance sheet total of eur 20 million or a net turnover of eur 40 million , the review shall also include a non - financial statement containing information relating to at least environmental , social and employee matters , respect for human rights , anti - corruption and bribery matters , including the following : ### for parent undertakings of undertakings to be consolidated that together exceed an average number of 250 employees during the financial year , and , on their balance sheet dates , exceed either a balance sheet total of eur 17 , 5 million or a net turnover of eur 35 million , the review shall also include a non - financial statement containing information relating to at least environmental , social , employee and diversity matters , respect for human rights , anti - corruption and bribery matters , taking into account the company ' s complete supply chain including the following :


### as regards the specific provisions relating to the implementation of external actions , it is necessary to adapt them to the changes proposed for the methods of implementation . ### as regards the specific provisions relating to the implementation of external actions , it is necessary to adapt them to the changes proposed for the methods of implementation and to propose a differentiated approach when the european union is required to respond to humanitarian emergencies , international crises or third countries undergoing a process of democratic transition .


### the commission shall make available , in an appropriate manner , information on the recipients of funds deriving from the budget held by it when the budget is implemented on a centralised basis and directly by its departments or by union delegations in accordance with the second paragraph of article 53 , and information on the recipients of funds as provided by the entities to which budget implementation tasks are delegated under other modes of management . ### the commission shall make available , in an appropriate manner , information on the recipients of funds and the precise nature and purpose of the measures financed by the budget held by it when the budget is implemented on a centralised basis and directly by its departments or by union delegations in accordance with the second paragraph of article 53 , and information on the recipients of funds as provided by the entities to which budget implementation tasks are delegated under other modes of management .


### the total amount of cfsp expenditure shall be entered into one budget chapter , entitled cfsp , with specific budgetary articles . those articles shall cover cfsp expenditure and shall contain specific budget lines identifying at least the single major missions . ### the total amount of cfsp expenditure shall be entered into one budget chapter , entitled cfsp , with specific budgetary articles . those articles shall cover cfsp expenditure and shall contain a specific budget line per mission .


### public law bodies or bodies governed by private law with a public service mission as far as these latter provide adequate financial guarantees ; ### european groupings of public law bodies or bodies governed by private law with a public service mission as far as they provide adequate financial guarantees , or public law bodies ;


### the amount of each individual legal commitment adopted following a global commitment shall , prior to signature , be registered by the authorising officer responsible in the budgetary accounts and booked to the global commitment . in case of humanitarian aid operations , civil protection operations and crisis management aid , and when the urgency justifies it , the registration of the amounts may be done immediately after the signature of the corresponding individual legal commitment . ### the amount of each individual legal commitment adopted following a global commitment shall , prior to signature , be registered by the authorising officer responsible in the budgetary accounts and booked to the global commitment .


### in such cases , costs eligible for financing may not have been incurred prior to the date of submission of the grant application , save in duly substantiated exceptional cases as provided for in the basic act or in case of extreme urgency for crisis management aid , civil protection operations and humanitarian aid operations . ### in such cases , costs eligible for financing may not have been incurred prior to the date of submission of the grant application , save in duly substantiated exceptional cases as provided for in the basic act or in case of extreme urgency for crisis management aid , civil protection operations , humanitarian aid operations and in situations posing a threat to democracy or threatening to escalate into armed conflict .


### the likelihood of diverging regulation is further increased by concerns over tobacco products , including smokeless tobacco products , having a characterising flavour other than tobacco , which may facilitate uptake of tobacco consumption or affect consumption patterns . for example , in many countries , sales of mentholated products gradually increased even as smoking prevalence overall declined . a number of studies indicated that mentholated tobacco products can facilitate inhalation as well as smoking uptake among young people . measures introducing unjustified differences of treatment between flavoured cigarettes should be avoided . ### the likelihood of diverging regulation is further increased by concerns over tobacco products having a flavour other than tobacco , which may facilitate uptake of tobacco consumption or affect consumption patterns . for example , in many countries , sales of mentholated products gradually increased even as smoking prevalence overall declined . a number of studies indicated that mentholated tobacco products can facilitate inhalation as well as smoking uptake among young people . measures introducing unjustified differences of treatment between flavoured cigarettes should be avoided . sweden should be allowed to regulate flavours in snus at a national level . if sweden fails to do so within a certain period of time , the provisions of this directive should apply .


### this tobacco product can damage your health and is addictive ### this tobacco product can damage your health and is addictive , but presents substantially lower risks to your health than smoking


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


### ‘ procurement documents’ means all documents produced or referred to by the contracting authority to describe or determine elements of the procurement or the procedure , including the contract notice , the prior information notice where it is used a means of calling for competition , the technical specifications , the descriptive document , proposed conditions of contract , formats for the presentation of documents by candidates and tenderers , information on generally applicable obligations and any additional documents . ### ‘ procurement documents’ means any document produced or referred to by the contracting authority to describe or determine elements of the procurement or the procedure , including the contract notice , the prior information notice where it is used a means of calling for competition , the technical specifications , the descriptive document , proposed conditions of contract , formats for the presentation of documents by candidates and tenderers , information on generally applicable obligations and any additional documents .


### at least 90 % of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authority or for other legal persons controlled by that contracting authority ; ### at least 80 % of the activities of that legal person , subject to the contract , are carried out for the controlling contracting authority or for other legal persons controlled by that contracting authority ;


### at least 90 % of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authorities or other legal persons controlled by the same contracting authorities ; ### at least 80 % of the activities of that legal person , subject to the contract , are carried out for the controlling contracting authorities or other legal persons controlled by the same contracting authorities ;


### there is no private participation in the controlled legal person . ### there is no private participation in the controlled legal person , with the exception of legally enforced forms of private participation .


### an agreement concluded between two or more contracting authorities shall not be deemed to be a public contract within the meaning of article 2 of this directive where the following cumulative conditions are fulfilled : ### an agreement concluded between two or more contracting authorities shall not be deemed to be a public contract within the meaning of article 2 of this directive and thus fall outside the scope of this directive where the following cumulative conditions are fulfilled :


### where no tenders or no suitable tenders or no requests to participate have been submitted in response to an open procedure or a restricted procedure , provided that the initial conditions of the contract are not substantially altered and that a report is sent to the commission or the national oversight body designated according to article 84 where they so request . ### where no tenders or no suitable tenders or no requests to participate have been submitted in response to an open procedure , a restricted procedure or a negotiated procedure with prior publication , provided that the initial conditions of the contract are not substantially altered .


### one or more contracting authorities may agree to perform certain specific procurements jointly . ### two or more contracting authorities may agree to perform certain specific procurements jointly .


### where mandatory accessibility standards are adopted by a legislative act of the union , technical specifications shall , as far as accessibility criteria are concerned , be defined by reference thereto . ### where mandatory accessibility standards are adopted by a legislative act of the union , technical specifications shall , as far as accessibility criteria for persons with disabilities or design for all users are concerned , be defined by reference thereto .


### where contracting authorities lay down environmental , social or other characteristics of a works , service or supply in terms of performance or functional requirements as referred to in point of article 40 they may require that these works , services or supplies bear a specific label , provided that all of the following conditions are fulfilled : ### where contracting authorities lay down in the technical specifications , the award criteria or the contract performance clauses environmental , social or other requirements or criteria , they may require a specific label as means of proof that these works , services or supplies correspond to such requirements or criteria , provided that all of the following conditions are fulfilled :


### the requirements for the label only concern characteristics which are linked to the subject - matter of the contract and are appropriate to define characteristics of the works , supplies or services that are the subject - matter of the contract ; ### the requirements to be met in order to obtain the label only concern criteria which are linked to the subject - matter of the contract and are appropriate to define characteristics of the works , supplies or services that are the subject - matter of the contract ;


### the requirements for the label are drawn up on the basis of scientific information or based on other objectively verifiable and non - discriminatory criteria ; ### the requirements for the label to be met in order to obtain the label are based on objectively verifiable and non - discriminatory criteria ;


### the labels are established in an open and transparent procedure in which all stakeholders , including government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , distributors and environmental organisations , may participate , ### the labels are established in an open and transparent procedure in which all relevant stakeholders , including government bodies , consumers , manufacturers , trade unions , distributors and environmental and social organisations , have a substantial role . government bodies may participate but are not obligatory .


### contracting authorities may require that economic operators provide a test report from a recognised body or a certificate issued by such a body as means of proof of conformity with the technical specifications . ### contracting authorities may require that economic operators provide a test report from a recognised body or a certificate issued by such a body as means of proof of conformity with requirements or criteria set out in the technical specifications , the award criteria or the contract performance clauses .


### where contracting authorities require the submission of certificates drawn up by recognised bodies attesting conformity with a particular technical specification , certificates from equivalent other recognised bodies shall also be accepted by the contracting authorities . ### where contracting authorities require the submission of certificates drawn up by a specific conformity assessment body , certificates from equivalent other recognised bodies shall also be accepted by the contracting authorities .


### member states shall make available to other member states , upon request , any information related to the evidence and documents submitted in accordance with article 40 , article 41 and paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 of this article to prove compliance with technical requirements . the competent authorities of the member state of establishment shall provide this information in accordance with article 88 . ### member states shall make available to other member states , upon request , any information related to the evidence and documents submitted in accordance with article 40 , article 41 and paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 of this article . the competent authorities of the member state of establishment of the economic operator shall provide this information in accordance with article 88 .


### the obligation to exclude a candidate or tenderer from participation in a public contract shall also apply where the conviction by final judgment has condemned company directors or any other any persons having powers of representation , decision or control in respect of the candidate or tenderer . ### the obligation to exclude a candidate or tenderer from participation in a public contract shall also apply where the conviction by final judgment has condemned company directors .


### the european procurement passport shall be recognised by all contracting authorities as proof of fulfilment of the conditions for participation covered by it and shall not be questioned without justification . such justification may be related to the fact that the passport was issued more than six months earlier . ### the european procurement passport shall be recognised by all contracting authorities as proof of fulfilment of the conditions for participation covered by it and shall not be questioned without justification . such justification may be related to the very nature of the individual case or the fact that the passport was issued more than six months earlier . in such cases the contracting authority is entitled to demand more recent or divergent types of certificates .