### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary forests or their conversion into plantation forests , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures locally appropriate thresholds for deadwood extraction and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:; ### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary and old-growth forests or forest conversion , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear cuts and ensures ecologically appropriate thresholds for deadwood retention and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:;


### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary forests or their conversion into plantation forests , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures locally appropriate thresholds for deadwood extraction and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:; ### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , using locally appropriate sustainable forest management practices based on principles agreed in forest europe and fao ,


### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary forests or their conversion into plantation forests , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures locally appropriate thresholds for deadwood extraction and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:; ### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , using of locally appropriate sustainable forest management practices based on principles agreed in forest europe and fao.;


### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary forests or their conversion into plantation forests , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures locally appropriate thresholds for deadwood extraction and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:; ### (iv) that harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts , in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots , degradation of primary and old-growth forests or forest conversion , and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures ecologically appropriate thresholds for deadwood retention and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality , including soil compaction , and on biodiversity features and habitats:;


### at least 70 % for electricity , heating and cooling production from biomass fuels used in installations until 31 december 2025 , and at least 80 % from 1 january 2026.; ### at least 70 % for electricity , heating and cooling production from biomass fuels used in installations starting operation from 1 january 2021 until 31 december 2025 , and at least 80 % for installations starting operation from 1 january 2026.


### greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for renewable fuels of non-biological origin and recycled carbon fuels ### greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for renewable fuels of non-biological origin , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels


### 3. the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 35 to supplement this directive by specifying the methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emissions savings from renewable fuels of non-biological origin and from recycled carbon fuels. the methodology shall ensure that credit for avoided emissions is not given for co2 the capture of which has already received an emission credit under other provisions of law.; ### 3. the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 35 to supplement this directive by specifying the methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emissions savings from renewable fuels of non-biological origin , low-carbon fuels and from recycled carbon fuels. the methodology shall ensure that credit for avoided emissions is not given for co2 the capture of which has already received an emission credit under other provisions of law.;


### 1. the commission shall ensure that a union database is set up to enable the tracing of liquid and gaseous renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels. ### 1. the commission shall ensure that a union database is set up to enable the tracing of liquid and gaseous renewable fuels , including the tracing of the feedstocks listed in annex ix used in their production , and recycled carbon fuels.


### 4. if guarantees of origin have been issued for the production of a consignment of renewable gases , member states shall ensure that those guarantees of origin are cancelled before the consignment of renewable gases can be registered in the database. ### 4. when guarantees of origin have been issued for the production of a consignment of renewable gases , member states shall ensure that those guarantees of origin are registered in the database and are cancelled after the consignment of renewable gases is withdrawn from the european network for renewable gas.


### for data verification , voluntary or national schemes recognised by the commission pursuant to article 30(4) , (5) and (6) may use third party information systems as intermediaries to collect the data , provided that such use has been notified to the commission. ### for data verification , voluntary or national schemes recognised by the commission pursuant to article 30(4) , (5) and (6) may use third party information systems as intermediaries to collect the data , provided that such use has been notified to the commission.


### with regard to the first subparagraph , point (a) , (b) , or (c) , gas and electricity from renewable sources shall be considered only once for the purposes of calculating the share of gross final consumption of energy from renewable sources. energy produced from renewable fuels of non-biological origin shall be accounted in the sector - electricity , heating and cooling or transport - where it is consumed. ### with regard to the first subparagraph , point (a) , (b) , or (c) , gas and electricity from renewable sources shall be considered only once for the purposes of calculating the share of gross final consumption of energy from renewable sources. energy produced from renewable fuels of non-biological origin shall be accounted in the sector - electricity , heating and cooling or transport and counted in the member state- where it is consumed only if a statistical transfer , joint project or joint support scheme between involved member states is previously agreed. if not , renewable fuels of non-biological origin shall be accounted in the country where it is produced.


### (ii) the fourth subparagraph is replaced by the following: ### (ii) the second , third and fourth subparagraph are deleted.


### where the share of biofuels and bioliquids , as well as of biomass fuels consumed in transport , produced from food and feed crops in a member state is limited to a share lower than 7 % or a member state decides to limit the share further , that member state may reduce the greenhouse gas intensity reduction target referred to in article 25(1) , first subparagraph , point (a) , accordingly , in view of the contribution these fuels would have made in terms of greenhouse gas emissions saving. for that purpose , member states shall consider those fuels save 50 % greenhouse gas emissions.; ### deleted


### (ii) the fourth subparagraph is replaced by the following: ### deleted


### the shares of advanced biofuels and biogas produced from the feedstock listed in part a of annex ix and of renewable fuels of non-biological origin supplied in the aviation and maritime modes shall be considered to be 1 ,2 times their energy content.; ### the shares of advanced biofuels and biogas produced from the feedstock listed in part a of annex ix and of renewable fuels of non-biological origin supplied in the aviation and maritime modes shall be considered to be 2 times their energy content.;


### where electricity is used for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin , either directly or for the production of intermediate products , the average share of electricity from renewable sources in the country of production , as measured two years before the year in question , shall be used to determine the share of renewable energy.; ### whereas , if the share of renewable electricity in the national energy mix in the country of production is higher than 50% , higher shares than the average share of electricity from renewable sources as measures two years before the year in question , can be used to determine the share of renewable energy , if evidence can be provided that the electricity concerned has been supplied via renewable sources.


### by 31 december 2024 , the commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 35 to supplement this directive by specifying the methodology to determine the share of biofuel , and biogas for transport , resulting from biomass being processed with fossil fuels in a common process.; ### by … [one year after the entry into force of this amending directive] , the commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 35 to supplement this directive by developing a methodology for the implementation of this article.


### where renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels are to be counted towards the targets referred to in articles 3(1) , 15a(1) , 22a(1) , 23(1) , 24(4) and 25(1) , member states shall require economic operators to show that the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) for renewable fuels and recycled-carbon fuels have been fulfilled. for that purpose , they shall require economic operators to use a mass balance system which:; ### where renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels are to be counted towards the targets referred to in articles 3(1) , 15a(1) , 22a(1) , 23(1) , 24(4) and 25(1) , member states shall require economic operators to show that the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) for renewable fuels and recycled-carbon fuels have been fulfilled. for that purpose , they shall require economic operators to use a mass balance system that considers the european interconnected system for gas within the meaning of directive 2009/73/ec as a single mass balance system. information about physical injection and withdrawal from the system based on respective transactions shall be registered moreover , the mass balance system shall:;


### where renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels are to be counted towards the targets referred to in articles 3(1) , 15a(1) , 22a(1) , 23(1) , 24(4) and 25(1) , member states shall require economic operators to show that the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) for renewable fuels and recycled-carbon fuels have been fulfilled. for that purpose , they shall require economic operators to use a mass balance system which:; ### where renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels are to be counted towards the targets referred to in articles 3(1) , 15a(1) , 22a(1) , 23(1) , 24(4) and 25(1) , member states shall require economic operators to show that the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) for renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled-carbon fuels have been fulfilled. for that purpose , they shall require economic operators to use a mass balance system which:;


### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) , and that economic operators make available to the relevant member state , upon request , the data used to develop that information. ### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) , and that economic operators make available to the relevant member state , upon request , the data used to develop that information. member states shall require economic operators to arrange for an adequate standard of independent auditing of the information submitted , and to provide evidence that this has been done. in order to comply with point (a) , (b) and (d) of article 29(3) , point (a) of article 29(4) , article 29(5) , point (a) of article 29(6) and point (a) of article 29(7) , the first or second party auditing may be used up to the first gathering point of the forest biomass. the auditing shall verify that the systems used by economic operators are accurate , reliable and protected against fraud , including verification ensuring that materials are not intentionally modified or discarded so that the consignment or part thereof could become a waste or residue. it shall evaluate the frequency and methodology of sampling and the robustness of the data.


### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2) , and that economic operators make available to the relevant member state , upon request , the data used to develop that information. ### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in articles 29(2) to (7) and (10) and 29a(1) and (2). member states shall require economic operators to arrange for an adequate standard of independent auditing of the information submitted , and to provide evidence that this has been done. the auditing shall verify that the systems used by economic operators are accurate , reliable and protected against fraud , including verification ensuring that materials are not intentionally modified or discarded so that e.g. the consignment of primary woody biomass or part thereof could become a waste or residue. it shall evaluate the frequency and methodology of sampling and the robustness of the data.


### the obligations laid down in this paragraph shall apply regardless of whether renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis.; ### the obligations laid down in this paragraph shall apply regardless of whether renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis.;


### the commission may decide that voluntary national or international schemes setting standards for the production of renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels , provide accurate data on greenhouse gas emission savings for the purposes of articles 29(10) and 29a (1) and (2) , demonstrate compliance with articles 27(3) and 31a(5) , or demonstrate that consignments of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels comply with the sustainability criteria laid down in article 29(2) to (7). when demonstrating that the criteria laid down in article 29(6) and (7) are met , the operators may provide the required evidence directly at sourcing area level. the commission may recognise areas for the protection of rare , threatened or endangered ecosystems or species recognised by international agreements or included in lists drawn up by intergovernmental organisations or the international union for the conservation of nature for the purposes of article 29(3) , first subparagraph , point (c)(ii).; ### the commission may decide that voluntary national or international schemes setting standards for the production of renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels , provide accurate data on greenhouse gas emission savings for the purposes of articles 29(10) and 29a (1) and (2) , demonstrate compliance with articles 27(3) and 31a(5) , or demonstrate that consignments of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels comply with the sustainability criteria laid down in article 29(2) to (7). when demonstrating that the criteria laid down in article 29(6) and (7) are met , the operators may provide the required evidence directly at sourcing area level. the commission may recognise areas for the protection of rare , threatened or endangered ecosystems or species recognised by international agreements or included in lists drawn up by intergovernmental organisations or the international union for the conservation of nature for the purposes of article 29(3) , first subparagraph , point (c)(ii).;


### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 5 and 10 mw , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.; ### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 10 and 20 mw , starting 1 january 2027 , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.;


### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 5 and 10 mw , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.; ### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 5 and 20 mw , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.;


### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 5 and 10 mw , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.; ### for installations producing electricity heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input between 5 and 15 mw , member states shall establish simplified national verification schemes to ensure the fulfillment of the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions criteria set out in paragraphs (2) to (7) and (10) of article 29.;


### at the request of a member state , which may be based on the request of an economic operator , the commission shall , on the basis of all available evidence , examine whether the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in article 29(2) to (7) and (10) and article 29a(1) and (2) in relation to a source of renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels have been met. ### at the request of a member state , which may be based on the request of an economic operator , the commission shall , on the basis of all available evidence , examine whether the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria laid down in article 29(2) to (7) and (10) and article 29a(1) and (2) in relation to a source of renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels have been met.


### take into account the renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels from that source for the purposes referred to in points (a) , (b) and (c) of the first subparagraph of article 29(1); or ### take into account the renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels from that source for the purposes referred to in points (a) , (b) and (c) of the first subparagraph of article 29(1); or


### by way of derogation from paragraph 9 of this article , require suppliers of the source of renewable fuels and recycled carbon fuels to provide further evidence of compliance with those sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria and those greenhouse gas emissions savings thresholds.; ### by way of derogation from paragraph 9 of this article , require suppliers of the source of renewable fuels , low-carbon fuels and recycled carbon fuels to provide further evidence of compliance with those sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria and those greenhouse gas emissions savings thresholds.;


### (21) in article 31 , paragraphs 2 , 3 and 4 are deleted: ### deleted


### 6. for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 1(a) , greenhouse gas emissions savings from improved agriculture management , esca , such as shifting to reduced or zero-tillage , improved crop/rotation , the use of cover crops , including crop residue management , and the use of organic soil improver (e.g. compost , manure fermentation digestate) , shall be taken into account only if they do not risk to negatively affect biodiversity. further , solid and verifiable evidence shall be provided that the soil carbon has increased or that it is reasonable to expect to have increased over the period in which the raw materials concerned were cultivated while taking into account the emissions where such practices lead to increased fertiliser and herbicide use37 .; ### 6. 6. for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 1(a) , greenhouse gas emissions savings from improved agriculture management , esca , such as shifting to reduced or zero-tillage , storing carbon in soil with biochar , improved crop/rotation , the use of cover crops , including crop residue management , and the use of organic soil improver (e.g. compost , manure fermentation digestate) , shall be taken into account only if they do not risk to negatively affect biodiversity. carbon in biomasses can be converted into biochar through pyrolysis , which can be stored by land application , thereby making it a negative emissions technology. here , the bonus for the improved agricultural and manure management is returned to the farmer responsible for the negative emissions when sustainability/environmental certificates are issued. further , solid and verifiable evidence shall be provided that the soil carbon has increased or that it is reasonable to expect to have increased over the period in which the raw materials concerned were cultivated while taking into account the emissions where such practices lead to increased fertiliser and herbicide use37 .;


### 6. for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 1(a) , greenhouse gas emissions savings from improved agriculture management , esca , such as shifting to reduced or zero-tillage , improved crop/rotation , the use of cover crops , including crop residue management , and the use of organic soil improver (e.g. compost , manure fermentation digestate) , shall be taken into account only if they do not risk to negatively affect biodiversity. further , solid and verifiable evidence shall be provided that the soil carbon has increased or that it is reasonable to expect to have increased over the period in which the raw materials concerned were cultivated while taking into account the emissions where such practices lead to increased fertiliser and herbicide use37 .; ### 6. for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 1(a) , greenhouse gas emissions savings from improved agriculture management , esca , such as shifting to reduced or zero-tillage , storing carbon in soil with biochar , improved crop/rotation , the use of cover crops , including crop residue management , and the use of organic soil improver (e.g. compost , manure fermentation digestate) , shall be taken into account only if they do not risk to negatively affect biodiversity. carbon in biomasses can be converted into biochar through pyrolysis , which can be stored by land application , thereby making it a negative missions technology. here , the bonus for the improved agricultural and manure management is returned to the farmer responsible for the negative emissions when sustainability/environmental certificates are issued. further , solid and verifiable evidence shall be provided that the soil carbon has increased or that it is reasonable to expect to have increased over the period in which the raw materials concerned were cultivated while taking into account the emissions where such practices lead to increased fertiliser and herbicide use37.;


### 18. for the purposes of the calculations referred to in point 17 , the emissions to be divided shall be eec + el + esca + those fractions of ep , etd , eccs and eccr that take place up to and including the process step at which a co-product is produced. if any allocation to co-products has taken place at an earlier process step in the life-cycle , the fraction of those emissions assigned in the last such process step to the intermediate fuel product shall be used for those purposes instead of the total of those emissions. in the case of biogas and biomethane , all co-products that do not fall under the scope of point 7 shall be taken into account for the purposes of that calculation. no emissions shall be allocated to wastes and residues. co-products that have a negative energy content shall be considered to have an energy content of zero for the purposes of the calculation. wastes and residues including all wastes and residues included in annex ix shall be considered to have zero life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions up to the process of collection of those materials irrespectively of whether they are processed to interim products before being transformed into the final product. residues that are not included in annex ix and fit for use in the food or feed market shall be considered to have the same amount of emissions from the extraction , harvesting or cultivation of raw materials , eec as their closest substitute in the food and feed market that is included in the table in part d. in the case of biomass fuels produced in refineries , other than the combination of processing plants with boilers or cogeneration units providing heat and/or electricity to the processing plant , the unit of analysis for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 17 shall be the refinery; ### 18. for the purposes of the calculations referred to in point 17 , the emissions to be divided shall be eec + el + esca + those fractions of ep , etd , eccs and eccr that take place up to and including the process step at which a co-product is produced. if any allocation to co-products has taken place at an earlier process step in the life-cycle , the fraction of those emissions assigned in the last such process step to the intermediate fuel product shall be used for those purposes instead of the total of those emissions. in the case of biogas and biomethane , all co-products that do not fall under the scope of point 7 shall be taken into account for the purposes of that calculation. no emissions shall be allocated to wastes and residues. co-products that have a negative energy content shall be considered to have an energy content of zero for the purposes of the calculation. wastes and residues including all wastes and residues included in annex ix shall be considered to have zero life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions up to the process of collection of those materials irrespectively of whether they are processed to interim products before being transformed into the final product. in the case of biomass fuels produced in refineries , other than the combination of processing plants with boilers or cogeneration units providing heat and/or electricity to the processing plant , the unit of analysis for the purposes of the calculation referred to in point 17 shall be the refinery;


### wastes and residues including all wastes and residues included in annex ix shall be considered to have zero life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions up to the process of collection of those materials irrespectively of whether they are processed to interim products before being transformed into the final product. residues that are not included in annex ix and fit for use in the food or feed market shall be considered to have the same amount of emissions from the extraction , harvesting or cultivation of raw materials , eec as their closest substitute in the food and feed market that is included in the table in part d of annex v. ### wastes and residues including all wastes and residues included in annex ix shall be considered to have zero life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions up to the process of collection of those materials irrespectively of whether they are processed to interim products before being transformed into the final product.


### feedstocks for the production of biofuels and biogas for transport , the contribution of which towards the greenhouse gas emissions reduction target established in article 25(1) , first subparagraph , point (a) , shall be limited:; ### feedstocks for the production of biofuels and biogas for transport , the contribution of which towards the greenhouse gas emissions reduction target established in article 25(1) , first subparagraph , point (a) , shall be limited and may be considered to be twice their energy content during a 6-years transitional period starting from the entry into force of the directive.


### member states may extend the assessment and coordination requirements under the first and third subparagraphs to gas transmission and distribution system operators , including hydrogen networks and other energy networks. ### member states may extend the assessment and coordination requirements under the first and third subparagraphs to gas transmission and distribution system operators , including hydrogen networks and other energy networks.


### for the calculation of a member state's gross final consumption of energy from renewable sources referred to in article 7 and of the greenhouse gas intensity reduction target referred to in article 25(1) , first subparagraph , point (a) , the share of biofuels and bioliquids , as well as of biomass fuels consumed in transport , where produced from food and feed crops , shall be no more than one percentage point higher than the share of such fuels in the final consumption of energy in the transport sector in 2020 in that member state , with a maximum of 7 % of final consumption of energy in the transport sector in that member state.; ### for the calculation of a member state's gross final consumption of energy from renewable sources referred to in article 7 and of the greenhouse gas intensity reduction target referred to in article 25(1) , first subparagraph , point (a) , the share of biofuels and bioliquids , as well as of biomass fuels consumed in transport , where produced from food and feed crops , shall be no more than one percentage point higher than the share of such fuels in the final consumption of energy in the transport sector in 2020 in that member state , excluding the share of high indirect land-use change risk biofuels , bioliquids or biomass fuels produced from food and feed crops for which a significant expansion of the production area into land with high-carbon stock is observed , with a maximum of 7 % of final consumption of energy in the transport sector in that member state. by way of derogation , member states may decide to exclude bioliquids used for electricity production in the outermost regions and non-interconnected areas from the aforementioned 7 % ceiling for the transport sector;


### — (a) in the case of solid biomass fuels , in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input equal to or exceeding 5 mw , ### — (a) in the case of solid biomass fuels , in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input equal to or exceeding 10 mw ,


### — (b) in the case of gaseous biomass fuels , in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling with a total rated thermal input equal to or exceeding 2 mw , ### — (b) in the case of gaseous biomass fuels , in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling with an average rated thermal input equal to or exceeding 2 mw ,


### calculation rules in the transport sector and with regard to renewable fuels of non-biological origin regardless of their end use; ### calculation rules in the transport sector and with regard to renewable fuels of non-biological origin;


### however , electricity obtained from direct connection to an installation generating renewable electricity may be fully counted as renewable electricity where it is used for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin , provided that the installation:; ### however , electricity obtained from direct connection to one or several installation generating renewable electricity may be fully counted as renewable electricity where it is used for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin , provided that the installation demonstrates that the electricity concerned has been supplied without taking electricity from the grid. the installations generating renewable electricity do not receive support in form of operating aid for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin , or such support has ended.


### however , electricity obtained from direct connection to an installation generating renewable electricity may be fully counted as renewable electricity where it is used for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin , provided that the installation:; ### however , electricity obtained from direct connection to an installation generating renewable electricity may be fully counted as renewable electricity where it is used for the production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin.;


### electricity that has been taken from the grid may be counted as fully renewable provided that it is produced exclusively from renewable sources and the renewable properties and other appropriate criteria have been demonstrated , ensuring that the renewable properties of that electricity are claimed only once and only in one end-use sector. ### (16a) "electricity that has been taken from the grid or reinjected from an energy storage facility may be counted as fully renewable provided that it is produced exclusively from renewable sources and the renewable properties and other appropriate criteria have been demonstrated , ensuring that the renewable properties of that electricity are claimed only once and only in one end-use sector.


### e. whereas in 2021 the ombudsman opened 338 inquiries , of which 332 were complaint-based and 6 own-initiative , and closed 305 inquiries (300 complaint-based and 5 own-initiative); whereas the greater part of the inquiries concerned the commission (208 inquiries or 61.5 %); whereas the next largest numbers concerned the european external action service (eeas) (16 inquiries or 4.7 %) , parliament (13 inquiries or 3.8 %) , the european personnel selection office (13 inquiries or 3.8 %) , the european border and coast guard agency (frontex) (11 inquiries or 3.3 %) , the european medicines agency (8 inquiries or 2.4 %) , the council of the european union (7 inquiries or 2.1 %) , the european anti-fraud office (6 inquiries or 1.8 %) , and other institutions (34 inquiries or 10.1 %); ### e. whereas in 2021 the ombudsman has helped 20536 people. it has opened 338 inquiries , of which 332 were complaint-based and 6 own-initiative , and closed 305 inquiries (300 complaint-based and 5 own-initiative); whereas the greater part of the inquiries concerned the commission (208 inquiries or 61.5 %); whereas the next largest numbers concerned the european external action service (eeas) (16 inquiries or 4.7 %) , parliament (13 inquiries or 3.8 %) , the european personnel selection office (13 inquiries or 3.8 %) , the european border and coast guard agency (frontex) (11 inquiries or 3.3 %) , the european medicines agency (8 inquiries or 2.4 %) , the council of the european union (7 inquiries or 2.1 %) , the european anti-fraud office (6 inquiries or 1.8 %) , and other institutions (34 inquiries or 10.1 %);


### i. whereas the cjeu has ruled several times that openness in the legislative process is precisely what contributes to conferring greater legitimacy on the institutions in the eyes of eu citizens and increasing their confidence in them by allowing divergences between various points of view to be openly debated; whereas the cjeu has stipulated that it is in fact a lack of information and debate which is capable of giving rise to doubts in the minds of citizens , not only as regards the lawfulness of an isolated act , but also as regards the legitimacy of the decision-making process as a whole3 ; ### i. whereas the cjeu has ruled several times that openness in the legislative process is precisely what contributes to conferring greater legitimacy on the institutions in the eyes of eu citizens and increasing their confidence in them by allowing divergences between various points of view to be openly debated; whereas the cjeu has stipulated that it is in fact a lack of information and debate which is capable of giving rise to doubts in the minds of citizens , facilitates misinformation (which is a factor in the rise of extremist populist political parties) , not only as regards the lawfulness of an isolated act , but also with regard to the legitimacy of the entire decision-making process;


### j. whereas improving citizens’ participation and ensuring transparency at eu level are key to bridging the perceived gap between the eu and citizens and representative organisations , with a view to overcoming citizens’ low trust and confidence levels in eu institutions and to achieve a real multilevel democracy; whereas the ombudsman plays a key role in bridging this gap; ### j. whereas improving citizens’ participation and ensuring transparency at eu level are key to bridging the perceived gap between the eu , its institutions , its citizens and representative organisations , with a view to overcoming citizens’ low trust and confidence levels in eu institutions and to achieve a real multilevel democracy; whereas the ombudsman plays a key role in bridging this gap;


### 2. congratulates emily o’reilly on her remarkable work and her constructive efforts to find a balance between the eu institutions’ right to work and the public interest in an eu administration that works with the highest standards of integrity and accountability; congratulates her on enhancing representative and participative democracy , while improving public participation in and the legitimacy of the eu decision-making process; ### 2. congratulates emily o’reilly , and her office , on their remarkable work and their constructive efforts to find a balance between the eu institutions’ right to work and the public interest in an eu administration that works with the highest standards of integrity and accountability; congratulates them on enhancing representative and participative democracy , while improving public participation in and the legitimacy of the eu decision-making process;


### 6. strongly believes that citizens’ access to all documents of the european institutions is the basis of a participatory democracy; welcomes the ombudsman’s efforts to improve public participation in and the legitimacy of the eu decision-making process; points out that the right to refer a matter to the ombudsman increases citizens’ engagement with and trust in the eu institutions , as it promotes transparency and the good administration of the eu institutions and bodies; ### 6. strongly believes that citizens’ access to all documents of the european institutions contributes to an effective democracy; welcomes the ombudsman’s efforts to improve public participation in and the legitimacy of the eu decision-making process; points out that the right to refer a matter to the ombudsman increases citizens’ engagement with and trust in the eu institutions , as it promotes transparency and the good administration of the eu institutions and bodies;


### 8. recalls that one of the ways to improve citizens’ perception of the eu is by making it more understandable and transparent to them; calls on the commission to take the necessary steps to guarantee full transparency; deeply regrets that despite the several calls by the parliament and by the ombudsman , the council’s current work is still marred by a lack of transparency; ### 8. recalls that one of the ways to improve citizens’ perception of the eu is by making it more accessible , understandable and transparent to them; calls on the commission to take the necessary steps to guarantee full transparency; deeply regrets that despite the several calls by the parliament and by the ombudsman , the council’s current work is still marred by a lack of transparency;


### 9. highlights that 2021 marked the twentieth anniversary of the transparency regulation coming into force; welcomes the special focus of the ombudsman’s office on this matter throughout the year 2021; notes with concern that the current legislation on public access to eu documents is severely obsolete due to technological advances in access to documentation in recent decades; considers it a priority to revise the transparency regulation in order to place the eu at the forefront of public access to eu documents and democratic transparency for citizens; welcomes the ombudsman’s input in relation to the transparency regulation and invites the commission , the council and the relevant committee in parliament to take the initiative on its revision; ### 9. highlights that 2021 marked the twentieth anniversary of the transparency regulation (1049/2001)coming into force; welcomes the special focus of the ombudsman’s office on this matter throughout the year 2021; notes with concern that this system has shown positive effects but it could be adjusted to better adapt to technological developments that the current legislation on public access to eu documents is severely obsolete due to technological advances in access to documentation in recent decades; considers it a priority to revise the transparency regulation in order to place the eu at the forefront of public access to eu documents and democratic transparency for citizens; welcomes the ombudsman’s input in relation to the transparency regulation and invites the commission , the council and the relevant committee in parliament to take this into consideration ;


### 12. reiterates its call for the eu institutions to ensure that informal trilogues are more transparent by holding the meetings in public; reiterates its call also to publish documentation including calendars , agendas , minutes , documents examined , amendments , decisions taken , information on member state delegations and their positions and minutes , in a standardised and easily accessible online environment , by default and without prejudice to the exemptions listed in article 4(1) of the transparency regulation; ### 12. reiterates its call for the eu institutions in particular the council and the european parliament to support the recommendations of the ombudsman towards more transparency in the legislative process by that informal trilogues are more transparent by holding the meetings in public; also to publish and with regards to documentation including calendars , agendas , minutes , documents examined , amendments , decisions taken , information on member state delegations and their positions and minutes , in a standardised and easily accessible online environment , by default and without prejudice to the exemptions listed in article 4(1) of the transparency regulation;


### 14. welcomes the opening of an inquiry into the commission’s role in assessing the sustainability of gas projects listed as projects of regional significance by the energy community – which brings together the eu , countries in the western balkans , countries in the black sea region , and norway – as the gas projects might not have been covered by an adequate sustainability assessment before being included on the list; recalls that these projects were evaluated according to a methodology formerly used by the commission for its list of projects of common interest , which is currently inadequate and no longer used; considers that , particularly in the current geopolitical energy context , energy projects promoted or financed by the eu should be evaluated in the most transparent , consistent and participative way possible; ### 14. welcomes the opening of an inquiry into the commission’s role in assessing the sustainability of gas projects listed as projects of regional significance by the energy community – which brings together the eu , countries in the western balkans , countries in the black sea region , and norway – ; recalls that these projects were evaluated according to a methodology formerly used by the commission for its list of projects of common interest; considers that , particularly in the current geopolitical energy context , energy projects promoted or financed by the eu should be evaluated in the most transparent , consistent and participative way possible;


### 15. emphasises the importance of the adoption of an updated statute for the ombudsman’s office in june 2021; recalls that the new statute codifies many of the office’s working practices over recent years; welcomes the fact that the revised statute provides a strengthened legal framework for the office and introduces new safeguards that further guarantee its independence; strongly believes that the office of the ombudsman must be awarded an increased budget to provide it with the necessary resources to effectively handle the overall workload and ensure it is able to continue to work competently at the service of european citizens; ### 15. emphasises the importance of the adoption of an updated statute for the ombudsman’s office in june 2021; recalls that the new statute codifies many of the office’s working practices over recent years; welcomes the fact that the revised statute provides a strengthened legal framework for the office and introduces new safeguards that further guarantee its independence; strongly believes that the office of the ombudsman must have a sufficient budget to provide it with the necessary resources to effectively handle the overall workload and ensure it is able to continue to work competently at the service of european citizens;


### 21. congratulates the ombudsman for expanding the role of the european network of ombudsmen (eno) in capacity building and the sharing of best practices; congratulates the eno for organising targeted webinars focused on different topics including artificial intelligence and e-government in public administrations; frontex’s complaints mechanism and the monitoring of forced returns; and institutional care , the use of eu funds and lessons from the covid-19 pandemic; ### 21. congratulates the ombudsman for expanding the role of the european network of ombudsmen (eno) in capacity building and the sharing of best practices between european member states ;congratulates the eno for organising targeted webinars focused on different topics including artificial intelligence and e-government in public administrations; frontex’s complaints mechanism and the monitoring of forced returns; and institutional care;


### 1. recalls that the withdrawal agreement allowed for the orderly withdrawal of the uk from the eu , avoiding a ‘cliff edge’; ### 1. recalls that the withdrawal agreement allowed for the orderly withdrawal of the uk from the eu , avoiding a ‘cliff edge’; recalls that its negotiation was a historic yet cumbersome and lengthy political process , during which both parties have put forward considerable political , administrative , financial and other resources; points out this was a period of deep uncertainty for the eu-27 and the uk and their respective stakeholders;


### 2. stresses that the eu-uk withdrawal agreement (‘the agreement’) allows both eu citizens and affected families residing in the uk and uk nationals residing in the eu-27 to continue to live in the host state and exercise their rights , as guaranteed by eu law; ### 2. stresses that the eu-uk withdrawal agreement (‘the agreement’) , whose full compliance was a precondition for the ratification of the eu-uk trade and cooperation agreement (tca) , allows both eu citizens and affected families residing in the uk and uk nationals residing in the eu-27 to continue to live in the host state and exercise their rights , as guaranteed by eu law; in this regards , regrets that so far the united kingdom has not fully implemented the withdrawal agreement , in particular with regard to the northern ireland protocol;


### 2. notes that , as expected , brexit has proven to be damaging for all concerned , and even more so for the uk; points out that it would have been much worse without the withdrawal agreement; ### 2. notes that , as expected , brexit has proven to be damaging for all concerned , and even more so for the uk; points out that it would have been much worse without an orderly withdrawal;


### 3. recalls that the agreement protects the rights of those eu citizens and their family members who exercised their right of free movement in the uk in accordance with eu law before the end of the transition period and who have continued to reside there following its end , as well as those uk citizens who are exercising the same right in a member state of the eu-27; reiterates the need for the public authorities in both the united kingdom and the eu to ensure this principle; ### 3. recalls that the agreement protects the rights of those eu citizens and their family members who exercised their right of free movement in the uk in accordance with eu law before the end of the transition period and who have continued to reside there following its end , as well as those uk citizens who are exercising the same right in a member state of the eu-27; reiterates the need for the public authorities in both the united kingdom and the eu to ensure this principle; it is therefore necessary to remain vigilant regarding any decisions or attempts by british authorities to weaken these rights or the enforcement thereof or to exclude parts of the uk from the scope of the agreement , northern ireland in particular;


### 3. highlights that the withdrawal agreement provided the legal framework for safeguarding citizens’ rights; avoiding a ‘hard border’ on the island of ireland and respecting the good friday agreement , while protecting the integrity of the eu’s single market; ensuring a fair financial settlement; and establishing joint institutions to monitor its implementation; ### 3. highlights that the withdrawal agreement provided the legal framework for safeguarding citizens’ rights; avoiding a ‘hard border’ on the island of ireland and respecting the good friday agreement , while protecting the integrity of the eu’s single market; ensuring a fair financial settlement; and establishing effective dispute settlement and joint institutions to monitor and enforce its implementation;


### 3. highlights that the withdrawal agreement provided the legal framework for safeguarding citizens’ rights; avoiding a ‘hard border’ on the island of ireland and respecting the good friday agreement , while protecting the integrity of the eu’s single market; ensuring a fair financial settlement; and establishing joint institutions to monitor its implementation; ### 3. highlights that the withdrawal agreement provided the legal framework for safeguarding citizens’ rights; avoiding a ‘hard border’ on the island of ireland and respecting the good friday agreement , while protecting the integrity of the eu’s single market; ensuring a fair financial settlement; and establishing joint institutions to monitor its implementation;


### 4. notes that some important improvements are still to be made to safeguard citizens’ rights and that the first three years of the implementation of the withdrawal agreement have been tarnished by the uk’s continuous breaches of its commitments under the protocol; ### 4. notes that some important improvements are still to be made to safeguard citizens’ rights and that the first three years of the implementation of the withdrawal agreement have been tarnished by the uk’s continuous breaches of its commitments and the threat thereof under the protocol;


### 5. considers it inconsistent with the wa that pre-settled status holders who do not reapply successfully for settled status risk losing their rights to live , work and access services in the uk; ### 5. considers it inconsistent with the wa that pre-settled status holders who do not reapply successfully for settled status risk losing their rights to live , work and access services in the uk leaving them in an administrative vacuum;


### 7. highlights the role of the independent monitoring authority in receiving complaints and conducting inquiries regarding alleged breaches of the withdrawal agreement; ### 7. welcomes the role of the independent monitoring authority in receiving complaints and conducting inquiries regarding alleged breaches of the withdrawal agreement; therefore highlights the case launched in december 2021 against the home office in the interest of protecting the rights of european citizens residing in the uk;


### 8. notes that the independent monitoring authority focuses on systemic failings in the implementation or application of part two of the agreement and that individuals filing complaints must seek redress by other means; ### 8. notes that the independent monitoring authority focuses on systemic failings in the implementation or application of part two of the agreement and that individuals filing complaints must seek redress by other means without suffering unjustified discrimination;


### 8. reiterates its view that greater certainty would be provided to eu citizens in the uk if they were issued with a physical document as proof of their right as residents; ### 8. reiterates its view that greater certainty would be provided to eu citizens in the uk if they were issued with a physical document as proof of their right as residents; reiterates its position that a declaratory system would provide even more legal certainty for the citizens concerned while alleviating the administrative burden on british authorities;


### 11. recalls that the protocol was agreed as a compromise to safeguard the good friday agreement in all its parts and prevent the establishment of a physical border on the island of ireland , while protecting the integrity of the eu single market; recalls , furthermore , that the final version of the protocol was in fact proposed by the uk government , leading to the abandonment of the previous version of the ‘backstop’; ### 11. recalls that the protocol was agreed as a compromise to safeguard the good friday agreement in all its parts and prevent the establishment of a hard border on the island of ireland , while protecting the integrity of the eu single market; recalls , furthermore , that the final version of the protocol was in fact proposed by the uk government , leading to the abandonment of the previous version of the ‘backstop’;


### 12. considers that the absence of a physical document creates the risk that many eu citizens and , in particular , the elderly and vulnerable and digitally challenged people will struggle to prove their rights; points out that the complexity of proving digital status may lead to the risk of discrimination against eu citizens; ### 12. considers that the absence of a physical document creates the risk that many eu citizens and , in particular , the elderly and vulnerable and digitally challenged people will struggle to prove their rights; points out that the complexity of proving digital status may lead to the risk of discrimination against eu citizens; calls on the united kingdom to facilitate the implementation of non-digital procedures to facilitate the application of the agreement;


### 12. strongly regrets the uk’s lack of political will and failure to act in good faith and in compliance with its commitments under the protocol; regrets , in particular , the lack of support given to the eu staff in charge of monitoring customs checks in the irish sea , the insufficient access to uk customs data and the successive unilateral grace periods that have undermined border checks , in clear breach of the protocol; ### 12. strongly regrets the uk’s lack of political will and failure to act in good faith and in compliance with its commitments under the protocol; denounces the uk’s unwillingness to comply with the applicable customs requirements , supervision requirements and risk controls on the movement of goods from northern ireland to great britain; regrets the uk’s unwillingness to transpose and implement applicable eu legislation on excise duties , including on alcohol and alcoholic beverages , as well as vat; regrets , in particular , the lack of support given to the eu staff in charge of monitoring customs checks in the irish sea , the insufficient access to uk customs data and the successive unilateral grace periods that have undermined border checks , in clear breach of the protocol;


### 14. expresses strong concerns about the recently proposed northern ireland protocol bill , whereby the uk government insists on unilaterally disapplying provisions of the protocol; recalls that a bilateral agreement cannot be changed unilaterally; calls on the uk government to immediately withdraw this proposal , refrain from unilateral action and fully implement the agreements that it has signed; ### 14. expresses strong concerns about the recently proposed northern ireland protocol bill , whereby the uk government insists unilaterally cease to comply with key provisions of the protocol; recalls that a bilateral agreement cannot be changed unilaterally; calls on the uk government to immediately withdraw this proposal , refrain from unilateral action and fully implement the agreements that it has signed; encourages eu and uk negotiators to find a joint solution and ensure the protocol is upheld;


### a. whereas the withdrawal of the uk from the eu was inevitably going to entail the disruptive disintegration of economic and trade ties and the divergence of regulatory regimes for operators , citizens and third-country trading partners; ### a. whereas the decision of the uk government to pursue a hard brexit upon its withdrawal from the eu was inevitably going to entail the disruptive disintegration of economic and trade ties and the divergence of regulatory regimes for operators , citizens and third-country trading partners;


### a. whereas the withdrawal agreement included ‘specific arrangements relating to the union’s external action’ whereby , during the transition period , the united kingdom was bound by the obligations stemming from the international agreements concluded by the eu to implement the union’s restrictive measures , whether decided upon during the transition period or already in place , and to support eu statements and positions vis-à-vis third countries and international organisations; whereas the agreement envisaged the uk’s participation on a case-by-case basis in eu military operations and civilian missions established under the common security and defence policy through a framework participation agreement , while excluding it from leading such operations or missions; ### a. whereas the withdrawal agreement included ‘specific arrangements relating to the union’s external action’ whereby , during the transition period , the united kingdom was bound by the obligations stemming from the international agreements concluded by the eu to implement the union’s restrictive measures , whether decided upon during the transition period or already in place , and to support eu statements and positions vis-à-vis third countries and international organisations; whereas the agreement envisaged the uk’s participation on a case-by-case basis in eu military operations and civilian missions established under the common security and defence policy through a framework participation agreement , while respecting the eu's decision-making autonomy and the relevant eu decisions and legislation and while excluding it from leading such operations or missions;


### 6. recalls that the withdrawal agreement provides that all eu citizens who were legally residing in the uk and all uk nationals who were legally residing in an eu member state on 31 december 2020 enjoy the full set of rights established under eu law; ### 6. recalls that the withdrawal agreement provides that all eu citizens who were legally residing in the uk and all uk nationals who were legally residing in an eu member state and continue to do so after 31 december 2020 enjoy the full set of rights as established under eu law , and interpreted by the court of justice of the european union (cjeu);


### 9. is concerned about the difficulties faced by uk nationals in clarifying their status in some eu countries; welcomes the commission’s initiatives to provide guidance to the member states in this respect; ### 9. is concerned about the difficulties faced by uk nationals in clarifying their status in some eu countries; welcomes the commission’s initiatives to provide guidance to the member states in this respect; calls on the member states with a constitutive system to consider adopting a declaratory system or elements thereof


### 17. expresses its complete support for the legal initiatives launched by the commission in order to ensure the full implementation of the withdrawal agreement; welcomes the commission’s proposal for a regulation on the enforcement mechanisms of the withdrawal agreement and the tca; underlines that the enforcement toolbox under the tca could also be used to strengthen the enforcement of the protocol; ### 17. expresses its complete support for the legal initiatives launched by the commission in order to ensure the full implementation of the withdrawal agreement; calls on the commission to expedite the pending infringement proceedings against the uk; welcomes the commission’s proposal for a regulation on the enforcement mechanisms welcomes the commission’s proposal for a regulation on the enforcement mechanisms of the withdrawal agreement and the tca; underlines that the enforcement toolbox under the tca could also be used to strengthen the enforcement of the protocol;


### 19. welcomes the fruitful cooperation in this area and the fact that the eu and the uk have reaffirmed their commitment to complying with their financial obligations under the withdrawal agreement; ### 19. welcomes the fruitful cooperation in this area and the fact that the eu and the uk have reaffirmed their commitment to complying with their financial obligations under the withdrawal agreement; however , draws attention to the considerable disparity between estimates of the net financial settlement made by the uk’s office for budget responsibility and the european commission; calls on the european commission to leverage all instruments at its disposal to avoid any budgetary uncertainty and ensure all financial commitments under the withdrawal agreement are paid out in full;


### b. whereas in 2021 , the number of users supporting one or more petitions on parliament’s petitions web portal was 209 272 , which represents a very considerable increase from the 48 882 users recorded in 2020; whereas the number of clicks in support of petitions also increased in 2021 , reaching a total of 217 876 (up from 55 129 in 2020); ### b. whereas in 2021 , the number of users supporting one or more petitions on parliament’s petitions web portal was 209 272 , which represents a very considerable increase from the 48 882 users recorded in 2020; whereas the number of clicks in support of petitions also increased in 2021 , reaching a total of 217 876 (up from 55 129 in 2020); whereas petition no 0549/2021 by adriana muresan , bearing 22735signatures , on the alleged poor safety conditions in car parks for trucks and commercial vehicles on the european road network represents a record number of co-signatures for a petition in 2021;


### d. whereas the high number of petitions submitted in 2021 reveals that , also in the second year of the pandemic , citizens placed significant trust in parliament , choosing to address their concerns and complaints directly to their elected representatives at eu level , whom they considered to be the source of decision-making; ### d. whereas the high number of petitions submitted in 2021 reveals that , also in the second year of the pandemic , citizens placed significant trust in parliament , choosing to address their concerns and complaints directly to their elected representatives at eu level , whom they considered to be the source of decision-making; whereas the parliament must do its utmost to validate this trust;


### e. whereas , however , the overall number of petitions remains modest in relation to the total population of the eu , revealing that efforts still need to be stepped up to increase citizens’ awareness about their right to petition; whereas , in exercising the right to petition , citizens expect that the eu institutions will provide added value in finding a solution to their problems; ### e. whereas , however , the overall number of petitions remains modest in relation to the total population of the eu , revealing that efforts still need to be stepped up to increase citizens’ awareness about their right to petition; and increase the geographical representation of petitions submitted per member state; whereas , in exercising the right to petition , citizens expect that the eu institutions will provide added value in finding a solution to their problems;


### i. whereas the right to petition offers parliament the opportunity to enhance its responsiveness to complaints and concerns relating to the respect for eu fundamental rights and compliance with eu legislation in the member states; whereas petitions are therefore a useful source of information on instances of misapplication or breaches of eu law and , thus , enable parliament and other eu institutions to assess the transposition and application of eu law and its impact on the rights of eu citizens and residents; ### i. whereas the right to petition offers parliament the opportunity to enhance its responsiveness to complaints and concerns relating to the respect for eu fundamental rights and compliance with eu legislation in the member states; whereas petitions are therefore a useful source of information on instances of misapplication or breaches of eu law and , thus , enable parliament and other eu institutions to assess the transposition and application of eu law and its impact on the rights of eu citizens and residents; whereas the submitted petitions should indicate to the eu institutions the areas where major effort and action on the eu level is needed for the transposition and application of the eu law;


### j. whereas parliament has long been at the forefront of the development of the petitions process internationally and has the most open and transparent petitions process in europe , allowing petitioners to participate fully in its activities; ### j. whereas parliament has long been at the forefront of the development of the petitions process internationally and has the most open and transparent petitions process in europe , allowing petitioners to participate fully in its activities; whereas participation of petitioners in the official missions organised by the parliament remains restricted due to financing constraints;


### n. whereas the main subjects of concern raised in petitions submitted in 2021 related to fundamental rights (in particular the impact of covid-19 emergency measures on the rule of law and democracy , as well on the freedom of movement and the right to work) , health (notably questions on the public health crisis resulting from the persistence of the pandemic , ranging from the protection of citizens’ health , including vaccination policy , to the use , implementation and application of the eu digital covid certificate in the member states and the alleged discrimination between vaccinated and non-vaccinated persons) , the environment (mostly concerning mining activities and their impact on the environment , nuclear safety , air pollution and the deterioration of natural ecosystems) , minority rights and discrimination (including the rights of national or linguistic minorities) , education (in particular questions related to discriminatory access to education or contested national reforms of the law on education) , the situation of eu students in the uk after the uk’s withdrawal from erasmus+ , and employment (in particular questions relating to national treatment of work contracts) , in addition to many other areas of activity; ### n. whereas the main subjects of concern raised in petitions submitted in 2021 related to fundamental rights (in particular the impact of covid-19 emergency measures on the rule of law and democracy , as well on the freedom of movement and the right to work) , health (notably questions on the public health crisis resulting from the persistence of the pandemic , ranging from the protection of citizens’ health , including vaccination policy , to the use , implementation and application of the eu digital covid certificate in the member states and the alleged discrimination between vaccinated and non-vaccinated persons) , the environment (mostly concerning mining activities and their impact on the environment , illegal logging , violence against environmental whistle-blowers , conservation of bears and wolves as legally protected species , illicit waste disposal , nuclear safety , air pollution and the deterioration of natural ecosystems) , minority rights and discrimination (including the rights of national or linguistic minorities) , education (in particular questions related to discriminatory access to education or contested national reforms of the law on education) , lack of safety in truck parking areas , the situation of eu students in the uk after the uk’s withdrawal from erasmus+ , and employment (in particular questions relating to national treatment of work contracts) , in addition to many other areas of activity;


### 1. emphasises the fundamental role of the committee on petitions in protecting and promoting the rights of eu citizens and residents by ensuring that petitioners’ concerns and complaints are examined in a timely and effective manner and that they are resolved , wherever possible , through an open , democratic and transparent petitions process; ### 1. emphasises the fundamental role of the committee on petitions in protecting and promoting the rights of eu citizens and residents by ensuring that petitioners’ concerns and complaints are examined in a timely and effective manner , that the petitioners are informed about the actions and progress done on their petitions , and that they are resolved , wherever possible , through an open , democratic and transparent petitions process;


### 2. reiterates the importance of a continuous public debate on the union’s field of activity in order to ensure that citizens are correctly informed about the scope of the union’s competences and the different levels of decision-making; calls , in this regard , for broader awareness raising campaigns , through the active involvement of communications services , to help increase citizens’ knowledge about their right to petition , as well as the scope of the union’s responsibilities , with a view to reducing the number of inadmissible petitions and better responding to citizens’ concerns; ### 2. reiterates the importance of a continuous public debate on the union’s field of activity in order to ensure that citizens are correctly informed about the scope of the union’s competences and the different levels of decision-making; calls , in this regard , for broader awareness raising campaigns , through the active involvement of communications services , to help increase citizens’ knowledge about their right to petition , as well as the scope of the union’s responsibilities , with a view to reducing the number of inadmissible petitions and better responding to citizens’ concerns; underlines that additional efforts need to be done to raise awareness on the right to petitions in those eu member states from where proportionately less petitions are sent;


### 3. points out that petitions constitute a unique opportunity for parliament and the other eu institutions to directly connect with eu citizens and maintain a regular dialogue with them , particularly in cases where they are affected by the misapplication or breach of eu law; stresses the need for enhanced cooperation between the eu institutions and national , regional and local authorities on inquiries regarding the implementation of and compliance with eu law; believes that such cooperation is crucial to address and resolve citizens’ concerns over the application of eu law and contributes to strengthening the democratic legitimacy and accountability of the union; calls , therefore , for the more active participation of member states’ representatives in committee meetings and for swifter responses to requests for clarification or information sent by the committee on petitions to national authorities; ### 3. points out that petitions constitute a unique opportunity for parliament and the other eu institutions to directly connect with eu citizens and maintain a regular dialogue with them , particularly in cases where they are affected by the misapplication or breach of eu law; stresses the need for enhanced cooperation between the eu institutions and national , regional and local authorities on inquiries regarding the implementation of and compliance with eu law; believes that such cooperation is crucial to address and resolve citizens’ concerns over the application of eu law and contributes to strengthening the democratic legitimacy and accountability of the union; calls , therefore , for the more active participation of member states’ representatives in committee meetings and for timely and detailed responses to requests for clarification or information sent by the committee on petitions to national authorities;


### 4. recalls that petitions contribute considerably to the commission’s role as guardian of the treaties; stresses that reinforced cooperation between the committee on petitions and the commission through timely and detailed answers from the commission , which are based on thorough examination of the issues raised in petitions , are essential to ensure the successful treatment of petitions: reiterates its call on the commission for regular updates on developments in infringement proceedings and for access to relevant commission documents on infringements and eu pilot procedures which have been closed; ### 4. recalls that petitions contribute considerably to the commission’s role as guardian of the treaties by providing the citizens with an additional opportunity to notify alleged breaches of eu law; stresses that reinforced cooperation between the committee on petitions and the commission through timely and detailed answers from the commission , which are based on thorough examination of the issues raised in petitions , are essential to ensure the successful treatment of petitions: reiterates its call on the commission for regular updates on developments in infringement proceedings and for access to relevant commission documents on infringements and eu pilot procedures which have been closed; stresses that such updates and other relevant information are necessary for the treatment of petitions that concern an open infringement procedure


### 10. takes note that , along with fundamental rights , health was the main area of concern for petitioners in 2021 , while recognising that health concerns related to the covid-19 pandemic were at the centre of the committee on petitions’ work; emphasises the attention paid by the committee on petitions to the consequences of covid-19 in terms of internal market policy (in particular questions relating to national travel restrictions and their impact on the freedom of movement of persons within and outside the eu); points , in this regard , to the public hearing held by the committee on petitions jointly with the committee on transport and tourism on 14 july 2021 entitled ‘how to improve air passenger rights during the covid-19 crisis?’ regulation (ec) no 261/2004 on 14 july 2021 , in order to assess how effectively the flight compensation regulation6 has been applied during the covid-19 pandemic and if the eu legal framework on passenger rights was adequate to deal with such a crisis; ### 10. takes note that , along with fundamental rights and environment , health was one of the main areas of concern for petitioners in 2021 , while recognising that health concerns related to the covid-19 pandemic were at the centre of the committee on petitions’ work; emphasises the attention paid by the committee on petitions to the consequences of covid-19 in terms of internal market policy (in particular questions relating to national travel restrictions and their impact on the freedom of movement of persons within and outside the eu); points , in this regard , to the public hearing held by the committee on petitions jointly with the committee on transport and tourism on 14 july 2021 entitled ‘how to improve air passenger rights during the covid-19 crisis?’ regulation (ec) no 261/2004 on 14 july 2021 , in order to assess how effectively the flight compensation regulation6 has been applied during the covid-19 pandemic and if the eu legal framework on passenger rights was adequate to deal with such a crisis;


### 11. draws attention to the significant number of petitions discussed in relation with various aspects of the protection of the rights of rainbow families in the eu , in particular the different stances regarding the free movement and mutual recognition rights of lgbti+ families in the eu; recalls the workshop of 22 march 2021 on lgbti+ rights in the eu , which the committee on petitions held to discuss the situation of lgbti+ persons , to examine the new strategy on lgbtiq equality presented by the commission , and to address the problem represented by obstacles to the free movement of rainbow families; draws attention to the report of the committee on petitions of 15 july 2021 on lgbtiq rights in the eu (2021/2679(rsp))7 ; ### 11. draws attention to the significant number of petitions discussed in relation with various aspects of the protection of the rights of rainbow families in the eu , in particular the different stances regarding the free movement and mutual recognition rights of lgbti+ families in the eu; recalls the workshop of 22 march 2021 on lgbti+ rights in the eu , which the committee on petitions held to discuss the situation of lgbti+ persons , to examine the new strategy on lgbtiq equality presented by the commission , and to address the problem represented by obstacles to the free movement of rainbow families; draws attention to the report of the committee on petitions of 15 july 2021 on lgbtiq rights in the eu (2021/2679(rsp))7 , wherein it calls for the commission to take concrete measures to ensure protection for lgbti+ families in line with the coman &; hamilton , maruko , römer , and hay judgments7a of the cjeu and the taddeucci & mccall judgment7b of the ecthr;


### 13. notes that environmental issues remained an area of serious concern for petitioners in 2021; regrets that environmental rules are not always correctly implemented in the member states , as described in numerous petitions raising complaints about air pollution , the deterioration of natural ecosystems , nuclear safety and the alteration of biodiversity; points to the important work carried out by the committee on petitions to highlight the impact of mining activities on the environment , as demonstrated by the number of petitions received on this topic; draws attention to the public hearing of 2 december 2021 on the environmental and social impacts of mining activity in the eu , held by the committee on petitions in association with the committee on the environment , public health and food safety , in order to acquire scientific knowledge on various aspects including mining legislation , safety standards , the social and environmental impacts of mines , environmental citizenship , public participation and transparency in the mining sector; ### 13. notes that environmental issues remained an area of serious concern for petitioners in 2021; regrets that environmental rules are not always correctly implemented in the member states , as described in numerous petitions raising complaints about air pollution , conservation status of large carnivores , illegal logging , attacks on environmental activists , illicit plastic waste disposal , the deterioration of natural ecosystems , nuclear safety and the alteration of biodiversity; points to the important work carried out by the committee on petitions to highlight the impact of mining activities on the environment , as demonstrated by the number of petitions received on this topic; draws attention to the public hearing of 2 december 2021 on the environmental and social impacts of mining activity in the eu , held by the committee on petitions in association with the committee on the environment , public health and food safety , in order to acquire scientific knowledge on various aspects including mining legislation , safety standards , the social and environmental impacts of mines , environmental citizenship , public participation and transparency in the mining sector; stresses that the commission should investigate as a matter of priority the cases of incorrect transposition and implementation of eu environmental legislation in order to efficiently address the concerns of the petitioners;


### 17. recalls that increased attention should be given to multilingualism in the eu; encourages in this sense the eu institutions to make use of as many official languages as possible; ### 17. recalls that increased attention should be given to multilingualism in the eu; encourages in this sense the eu institutions to make use of as many official languages as possible and to implement their multilingualism policies coherently;


### 18. underlines the work of the committee on petitions in connection with petitions relating to alleged poor safety conditions in parking facilities for trucks and commercial vehicles on the european road network , in relation to attacks on carriers in truck parking areas; points , in this regard , to the motion for a resolution adopted by the committee on petitions on 6 october 2021 on the safety of truck parking lots in the eu (2021/2918(rsp))9 ; ### 18. underlines the work of the committee on petitions in connection with petitions relating to alleged poor safety conditions in parking facilities for trucks and commercial vehicles on the european road network , in relation to attacks on carriers in truck parking areas; points , in this regard , to the motion for a resolution adopted by the committee on petitions on 6 october 2021 on the safety of truck parking lots in the eu (2021/2918(rsp))9 ; expects the commission to follow-up on this resolution with concrete actions and strengthen the monitoring of safety conditions in truck parking areas;


### 21. recalls the fact that relations with the european ombudsman are one of the responsibilities conferred by parliament’s rules of procedure on the committee on petitions; welcomes parliament’s constructive cooperation with the european ombudsman , as well as its involvement in the european network of ombudsmen; acknowledges the european ombudsman’s regular contributions to the work of the committee on petitions throughout the year; firmly believes that the union’s institutions , bodies and agencies must ensure consistent and effective follow-up to the recommendations of the ombudsman; ### 21. recalls the fact that relations with the european ombudsman are one of the responsibilities conferred by parliament’s rules of procedure on the committee on petitions; welcomes parliament’s constructive cooperation with the european ombudsman , as well as its involvement in the european network of ombudsmen; acknowledges the european ombudsman’s regular contributions to the work of the committee on petitions throughout the year; firmly believes that the union’s institutions , bodies and agencies must ensure consistent and effective follow-up to the recommendations of the ombudsman; strongly supports the ombudsman’s work on upholding public access to eu documents , which encompassed 214 inquiries in 2021; reiterates its calls on the commission to submit a proposal for a revision of regulation (ec) no 1049/2001 as adopted in previous resolutions; stresses that such revision must enhance transparency and accountability by promoting good administrative practice10a;


### 22. stresses that the eci is an important instrument for active citizenship and public participation; welcomes the discussion in several meetings as petitions of some unsuccessful ecis , which gave citizens the opportunity to expose their ideas and hold a constructive debate , as well as facilitating the participation of eu citizens in the democratic process of the union; takes note of the significant number of new ecis registered by the commission in 2021 , which shows that citizens are seizing the opportunity to use participatory instruments to have a say in policy and law-making processes; calls on the commission to better engage with citizens and give adequate follow-up to successful ecis; ### 22. stresses that the eci is an important instrument for active citizenship and public participation; welcomes the discussion in several meetings as petitions of some unsuccessful ecis , which gave citizens the opportunity to expose their ideas and hold a constructive debate , as well as facilitating the participation of eu citizens in the democratic process of the union; takes note of the significant number of new ecis registered by the commission in 2021 , which shows that citizens are seizing the opportunity to use participatory instruments to have a say in policy and law-making processes; calls on the commission to better engage with citizens and give adequate follow-up to successful ecis , including through legislative proposals;


### 23. underlines that the petitions web portal is an essential tool for ensuring a smooth , efficient and transparent petitions process; welcomes , in this regard , the improvements to data protection and security features which have made the portal more user-friendly and secure for citizens; stresses that efforts must be continued to make the portal more accessible , including to persons with disabilities; ### 23. underlines that the petitions web portal is an essential tool for ensuring a smooth , efficient and transparent petitions process; welcomes , in this regard , the improvements to data protection and security features which have made the portal more user-friendly and secure for citizens; stresses that efforts must be continued to make the portal more accessible , including to persons with disabilities considers that the petitions web portal must provide short descriptions in clear and plain language of all eu participatory instruments , thereby helping users to identify the most appropriate channel and reduce the number of inadmissible petitions;


### 1. insists on more democratic legitimacy , accountability and scrutiny of the union economic policies; stresses for the framework , institutions and tools for eu economic governance to be under the community method; calls for any treaty revision to grant the parliament its role as co-legislator and democratic oversight in these policies; ### 1. insists on more democratic legitimacy , accountability and scrutiny of the economic policies of the union and its member states; stresses for the framework , institutions and tools for eu economic governance to be under the community method with the european parliament scrutinising european executives; takes into account the recent report published by the european court of auditors on the commission’s assessment of national recovery and resilience plans and firmly believes that the european parliament should act as a counterweight to ensure effective scrutiny. calls for the parliament to stand on an equal footing with the council in particular as regards articles 121 and 122 tfeu , as concerns economic and monetary policy , and articles 311 , 312 and 319 tfeu , as concerns the budget;


### 2. calls therefore for the revision of the tfeu , in particular its title ii , to ensure that the union is able to react agilely and effectively to challenges and to achieve better democratic accountability of the union budget , notably by reinforcing parliament’s role in budgetary decision-making and scrutiny; ### 2. calls therefore for the revision of the tfeu , in particular its title ii , to ensure that the union is able to react agilely and effectively to challenges and to achieve better democratic accountability of the union budget , notably by giving to parliament full budgetary powers;


### 4. article 311 tfeu shall be amended so that the decision laying down the provisions relating to the system of own resources of the union and the implementing measures for that system are adopted by the council acting by qualified majority after obtaining the consent of the european parliament; ### 4. article 311 tfeu shall be amended so that the decision laying down the provisions relating to the system of own resources of the union are adopted by the council acting by qualified majority after obtaining the consent of the european parliament on the one hand , and the implementing measures of the own resources decision being adopted in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure , on the other hand;


### 2. supports an economic governance framework that ensures stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments , democratic accountability and ownership , and fiscal policies and instruments to counteract shocks; ### 2. supports an economic governance framework that supports strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of the eu economy to ensure stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments for the achievement of key objectives in the twin transition and strategic autonomy of the eu , democratic accountability and ownership , and fiscal policies and instruments to counteract shocks;


### 2. supports an economic governance framework that ensures stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments , democratic accountability and ownership , and fiscal policies and instruments to counteract shocks; ### 2. supports an economic governance framework that ensures stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments , democratic accountability and ownership , intergenerational fairness , self-responsibility , fiscal policies and avoiding false incentives by rewarding wrong policies;


### 2. supports an economic governance framework that ensures stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments , democratic accountability and ownership , and fiscal policies and instruments to counteract shocks; ### 2. supports an economic governance framework that ensures stability , full employment , strategic and sustainable investments , democratic accountability and ownership , and fiscal policies that allow the member states to counteract shocks;


### 3. calls for the economic governance to be redesigned taking into account lessons learned from the ngeu and sure processes; ### deleted


### 3. calls for the economic governance to be redesigned taking into account lessons learned from the ngeu and sure processes; ### 3. calls for the economic governance to be redesigned taking into account lessons learned from the ngeu and sure processes; in light of the review of the stability and growth pact and principles enshrined in the treaties; stresses the need to update our macroeconomic governance framework to make it more resilient and to enable member states to design new relevant rules to ensure the sustainability of their economic models and key investments , based on sound fiscals policies and sustainable debt levels;


### 4. urges that the framework of the ecb’s accountability to parliament be improved; calls for a more comprehensive definition of the price stability and the ways to achieve it; ### 4. urges that the framework of the ecb’s accountability to parliament be improved to reinforce and clarify the role of the european parliament as a scrutiny body; calls for a more comprehensive definition of the price stability and the ways to achieve it; underlines that fiscal policy should play a stronger role and calls for a better convergence to complement the role of monetary policy;


### 4. urges that the framework of the ecb’s accountability to parliament be improved; calls for a more comprehensive definition of the price stability and the ways to achieve it; ### 4. urges that the framework of the ecb’s accountability to parliament be improved; calls for a stricter orientation at the primary objective namely the price stability;


### 5. underlines the numerous impediments to essential eu tax initiatives over the past decades; calls for gradual change that would allow qmv in certain tax questions; ### 5. underlines the numerous impediments to essential eu tax initiatives over the past decades; recalls the possibility to use a passerelle clause to shift from unanimity to qualified majority voting in tax matters; calls for gradual change that would allow moving to qualified majority voting under ordinary legislative procedure as recommended by the conference on the future of europe; considers that involving the european parliament would enhance decision-making in taxation; supports the principle of establishing a common set of rules defining how companies’ profits should be taxed while ensuring it should apply fairly to all member states and not disproportionately favour large economies;


### 5. underlines the numerous impediments to essential eu tax initiatives over the past decades; calls for gradual change that would allow qmv in certain tax questions; ### 5. notes the impediments to some eu tax initiatives over the past decades; calls for further analysis of certain tax questions;


### 5. underlines the numerous impediments to essential eu tax initiatives over the past decades; calls for gradual change that would allow qmv in certain tax questions; ### 5. underlines the numerous impediments to essential eu tax initiatives over the past decades; calls for gradual change in certain tax questions;


### 6. highlights the new challenges for union’s competition policy , which require that the treaty be amended to align it with the goals of the green deal and the pillar of social rights and support the union´s strategic autonomy in key sectors; ### 6. highlights the new challenges for union’s competition policy , which require that guidelines and notices should be aligned with the objectives enshrined in the treaty in light of the green deal , the pillar of social rights and the union´s strategic autonomy in key sectors such as industrial , defence , digital and trade policies; calls for a better involvement of the european parliament in reviewing guidelines for mergers and state aid control;


### 6. highlights the new challenges for union’s competition policy , which require that the treaty be amended to align it with the goals of the green deal and the pillar of social rights and support the union´s strategic autonomy in key sectors; ### 6. highlights the new challenges for union’s competition policy through large international digital corporations; highlights the positive effects that smes have on the economy and society , and the necessity to have a level playing field for them; underlines the difficulties that overregulation brings especially for smes;


### 7. calls for the full use of the current treaties , in the meantime. ### 7. calls for the full use of the current treaties , such as enhanced cooperation , in the meantime.


### (1) according to article 3(3) of the treaty on european union (teu) and article 191 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) , the union is committed to ensuring a high level of protection and improvement of the quality of the environment. ### (1) according to article 3(3) of the treaty on european union (teu) and article 191 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) , the union is committed to ensuring a high level of protection and improvement of the quality of the environment. the preamble of the aarhus convention provides for the right of every person to live in an environment adequate to his or her health and well-being and article 37 of the charter of fundamental rights provides that a high level of environmental protection must be integrated in eu policies.