### designate sufficiently homogeneous land and sea areas where the deployment of a specific type or types of renewable energy is not expected to have significant environmental impacts , in view of the particularities of the selected territory. in doing so , member states shall: ### designate sufficiently homogeneous land and sea areas where the deployment of a specific type or types of renewable energy is expected to have low environmental impacts according to the sensitivity mapping under article 15b(2a) , in view of the particularities of the selected territory. in doing so , member states shall:


### — give priority to artificial and built surfaces , such as rooftops , transport infrastructure areasparking areas , waste sites , industrial sites , mines , artificial inland water bodies , lakes or reservoirs , and , where appropriate , urban waste water treatment sites , as well as degraded land not usable for agriculture; ### — give priority to artificial and built surfaces , such as rooftops , transport infrastructure areas and their direct environment , parking areas , waste sites , industrial sites , mines and , where appropriate , urban waste water treatment sites;


### — give priority to artificial and built surfaces , such as rooftops , transport infrastructure areasparking areas , waste sites , industrial sites , mines , artificial inland water bodies , lakes or reservoirs , and , where appropriate , urban waste water treatment sites , as well as degraded land not usable for agriculture; ### — give priority to artificial and built surfaces , such as rooftops , transport infrastructure areasparking areas , waste sites , industrial sites , mines , artificial inland water bodies , lakes or reservoirs , and , where appropriate , urban waste water treatment sites , as well as land not usable for agriculture;


### — exclude natura 2000 sites and nature parks and reserves , the identified bird migratory routes as well as other areas identified based on sensitivity maps and the tools referred to in the next point , except for artificial and built surfaces located in those areas such as rooftops , parking areas or transport infrastructure. ### — exclude natura 2000 sites , peatlands and other protected areas , the identified bird and marine mammal migratory routes , blue carbon ecosystems , buffer zones and ecological corridors , as well as other areas identified based on sensitivity maps and the tools referred to in the next point , except for artificial and built surfaces located in those areas such as rooftops , parking areas or transport infrastructure


### — exclude natura 2000 sites and nature parks and reserves , the identified bird migratory routes as well as other areas identified based on sensitivity maps and the tools referred to in the next point , except for artificial and built surfaces located in those areas such as rooftops , parking areas or transport infrastructure. ### — exclude natura 2000 sites and nature parks and reserves , and a buffer area from the natura 2000 sites , the identified bird migratory routes as well as other areas identified based on sensitivity maps and the tools referred to in the next point , except for artificial and built surfaces located in those areas such as rooftops , parking areas or transport infrastructure.


### — use all appropriate tools and datasets to identify the areas where the renewable energy plants would not have a significant environmental impact , including wildlife sensitivity mapping. ### — use all appropriate tools , datasets and , where necessary , the development of specific field surveys to identify the areas where the renewable energy plants would not have a significant environmental impact , including wildlife sensitivity mapping.


### establish appropriate rules for the designated renewable go-to areas , including on the mitigation measures to be adopted for the installation of renewable energy plants , co-located energy storage facilities , as well as assets necessary for their connection to the grid , in order to avoid or , if not possible , to significantly reduce the negative environmental impacts that may arise. where appropriate , member states shall ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are applied to prevent the situations described in articles 6(2) and 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec , article 5 of directive 2009/147/eec and article 4(1)(a)(i) and (ii) of directive 2000/60/ec. such rules shall be targeted to the specificities of each identified renewable go-to area , the renewable energy technology or technologies to be deployed in each area and the identified environmental impacts. compliance with such rules and the implementation of the appropriate mitigation measures by the individual projects shall result in the presumption that projects are not in breach of those provisions without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 of article 16a. where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective. . ### establish appropriate rules for the designated renewable go-to areas , including on the mitigation , compensation and monitoring measures to be adopted for the installation of renewable energy plants , co-located energy storage facilities , as well as assets necessary for their connection to the grid , in order to avoid or , if not possible , to significantly reduce the negative environmental impacts that may arise. where appropriate , member states shall ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are applied to prevent the situations described in articles 6(2) and 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec , article 5 of directive 2009/147/eec and article 4(1)(a)(i) and (ii) of directive 2000/60/ec. such rules shall be targeted to the specificities of each identified renewable go-to area , the renewable energy technology or technologies to be deployed in each area and the identified environmental impacts. compliance with such rules and the implementation of the appropriate mitigation measures by the individual projects shall result in the presumption that projects are not in breach of those provisions without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 of article 16a. compliance with these rules shall be verified as part of the screening process referred to in article 16a(4).where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective. .


### establish appropriate rules for the designated renewable go-to areas , including on the mitigation measures to be adopted for the installation of renewable energy plants , co-located energy storage facilities , as well as assets necessary for their connection to the grid , in order to avoid or , if not possible , to significantly reduce the negative environmental impacts that may arise. where appropriate , member states shall ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are applied to prevent the situations described in articles 6(2) and 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec , article 5 of directive 2009/147/eec and article 4(1)(a)(i) and (ii) of directive 2000/60/ec. such rules shall be targeted to the specificities of each identified renewable go-to area , the renewable energy technology or technologies to be deployed in each area and the identified environmental impacts. compliance with such rules and the implementation of the appropriate mitigation measures by the individual projects shall result in the presumption that projects are not in breach of those provisions without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 of article 16a. where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective. ### establish appropriate rules for the designated renewable go-to areas , including on the mitigation measures to be adopted for the installation of renewable energy plants , co-located energy storage facilities , as well as assets necessary for their connection to the grid , in order to avoid or , if not possible , to significantly reduce the negative environmental impacts that may arise. member states shall ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are applied to implement obligations described in articles 6(2) and 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec , article 5 of directive 2009/147/eec and article 4(1)(a)(i) and (ii) of directive 2000/60/ec. such rules shall be targeted to the specificities of each identified renewable go-to area , the renewable energy technology or technologies to be deployed in each area and the identified environmental impacts. compliance with such rules and the implementation of the appropriate mitigation measures by the individual projects shall result in the presumption that projects are not in breach of those provisions without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 of article 16a. where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective.


### by [2 years after the entry into force] , member states shall adopt a plan or plans designating , within the areas referred to in article 15b(1) , renewables go-to areas for one or more types of renewable energy sources. in that plan or plans , member states shall: ### by [6 months after the entry into force] , member states shall adopt a plan or plans designating , within the areas referred to in article 15b(1) , renewables go-to areas for one or more types of renewable energy sources. in the case of failure by a member state to identify the necessary land and sea areas within the above-mentioned timeframe , the release of the funds that the member state is entitled to under the recovery and resilience facility regulation shall be reassessed accordingly. in that plan or plans , member states shall:


### (2) no later than fourteen days for plants located in go-to areas and one month for plants located outside of go-to areas , following the receipt of the application , the competent authority shall validate the application or , if the developer has not sent all the information required to process an application , request the developer to submit a complete application within fourteen days from this request. if the developer does not submit a complete application within this deadline , the competent authority may reject the application in written form. in the event of a rejection , the competent authority shall justify its decision. the developer may resubmit a new application at any point in time following such rejection. the date of the acknowledgement of the validity of the application by the competent authority shall serve as the start of the permit-granting process. ### (2) no later than fourteen days for plants located in go-to areas and one month for plants located outside of go-to areas , following the receipt of the application , the competent authority shall validate the application or , if the developer has not sent all the information required to process an application , request the developer to submit a complete application within fourteen working days from this request. if the developer does not submit a complete application within this deadline , the competent authority may reject the application in written form. in the event of a rejection , the competent authority shall justify its decision. the developer may resubmit a new application at any point in time following such rejection. the date of the acknowledgement of the validity of the application by the competent authority shall serve as the start of the permit-granting process. member states shall ensure that relevant authority or authorities have adequate resources to comply with the deadlines established in this article.


### (2) no later than fourteen days for plants located in go-to areas and one month for plants located outside of go-to areas , following the receipt of the application , the competent authority shall validate the application or , if the developer has not sent all the information required to process an application , request the developer to submit a complete application within fourteen days from this request. if the developer does not submit a complete application within this deadline , the competent authority may reject the application in written form. in the event of a rejection , the competent authority shall justify its decision. the developer may resubmit a new application at any point in time following such rejection. the date of the acknowledgement of the validity of the application by the competent authority shall serve as the start of the permit-granting process. ### (2) no later than one month for plants located in go-to areas and two months for plants located outside of go-to areas , following the receipt of the application , the competent authority shall validate the application or , if the developer has not sent all the information required to process an application , request the developer to submit a complete application within fourteen days from this request. if the developer does not submit a complete application within this deadline , the competent authority may reject the application in written form. in the event of a rejection , the competent authority shall justify its decision. the developer may resubmit a new application at any point in time following such rejection. the date of the acknowledgement of the validity of the application by the competent authority shall serve as the start of the permit-granting process. all applications deemed to be valid shall be made available to the public on the date of acknowledgement of their validity.


### (3) member states shall set up or designate one or more contact points. those contact points shall , upon request by the applicant , guide through and facilitate the entire administrative permit application and granting process. the applicant shall not be required to contact more than one contact point for the entire process. the contact point shall guide the applicant through the administrative permit application process , including the environmental related steps , in a transparent manner up to the delivery of one or several decisions by the responsible authorities at the end of the process , provide the applicant with all necessary information and involve , where appropriate , other administrative authorities. the contact point shall ensure fulfilment of the deadlines for the permit-granting procedures set out in this directive. applicants shall be allowed to submit relevant documents in digital form. by [2 years from entry into force] member states shall ensure that all procedures are carried out in electronic format. ### (3) member states shall set up or designate one or more contact points. those contact points shall , upon request by the applicant , guide through and facilitate the entire administrative permit application and granting process. the applicant shall not be required to contact more than one contact point for the entire process. the contact point shall guide the applicant through the administrative permit application process , including the environmental related steps , in a transparent manner up to the delivery of one or several decisions by the responsible authorities at the end of the process , provide the applicant with all necessary information and involve , where appropriate , other administrative authorities. the contact point shall provide the public with information regarding their opportunities , and technical and practical aspects of installing renewables for self-consumption and in the context of renewable energy communities , as required by article 18(6) of this directive. the contact point shall ensure fulfilment of the deadlines for the permit-granting procedures set out in this directive. applicants shall be allowed to submit relevant documents in digital form. by [2 years from entry into force] member states shall ensure that all procedures are carried out in electronic format.


### without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 , by derogation from article 4(2) of directive 2011/92/eu , and annex ii , points 3(a) , (b) , (d) , (h) , (i) , and 6(c) alone or in conjunction with point 13(a) to that directive as far as this concerns renewable energy projects , new applications for renewable energy plants , except for biomass combustion plants , including the repowering of plants , in already designated renewables go-to areas for the respective technology , co-located storage facilities as well as their connection to the grid , shall be exempted from the requirement to carry out a dedicated environmental impact assessment under article 2(1) of directive 2011/92/eu , provided that these projects comply with the rules and measures set out in accordance with article 15c(1) , point (b). the exemption from the application of directive 2011/92/eu above shall not apply to projects which are likely to have significant effects on the environment in another member state or where a member state likely to be significantly affected so requests , as provided for in article 7 of the said directive. ### without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5 , by derogation from article 4(2) of directive 2011/92/eu , and annex ii , points 3(a) , (b) , (d) , (h) , (i) , and 6(c) alone or in conjunction with point 13(a) to that directive as far as this concerns renewable energy projects , new applications for renewable energy plants , including the repowering of plants , in already designated renewables go-to areas for the respective technology , co-located storage facilities as well as their connection to the grid , shall be exempted from the requirement to carry out a dedicated environmental impact assessment under article 2(1) of directive 2011/92/eu , provided that these projects comply with the rules and measures set out in accordance with article 15c(1) , point (b). the exemption from the application of directive 2011/92/eu above shall not apply to projects which are likely to have significant effects on the environment in another member state or where a member state likely to be significantly affected so requests , as provided for in article 7 of the said directive.


### by derogation from article 6(3) of directive 92/43/eec , the plants referred to in the first subparagraph , shall not be subject to an assessment of their implications for natura 2000 sites. ### deleted


### where an environmental assessment is required under directive 2011/92/eu or directive 92/43/eec , it shall be carried out in a single procedure that combines all relevant assessments for a given project. when any such environmental impact assessment is required , the competent authority , taking into account the information provided by the developer , shall issue an opinion on the scope and level of detail of the information to be included by the developer in the environmental impact assessment report , of which the scope shall not be extended subsequently. where the specific projects have adopted appropriate mitigation measures , any killing or disturbance of the species protected under article 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec and article 5 of directive 2009/147/ec shall not be considered deliberate. where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective. the permit-granting process for the repowering of projects and for new installations with an electrical capacity of less than 150 kw , co-located storage facilities as well as their grid connection , located outside renewables go-to areas shall not exceed one year including environmental assessments where required by relevant legislation. where duly justified on the ground of extraordinary circumstances , this one-year period may be extended by up to three months. member states shall clearly inform the developers about the extraordinary circumstances that justified the extension. ### where an environmental assessment is required under directive 2011/92/eu or directive 92/43/eec , it shall be carried out in a single procedure that combines all relevant assessments for a given project. when any such environmental impact assessment is required , the competent authority , taking into account the information provided by the developer , shall issue an opinion on the scope and level of detail of the information to be included by the developer in the environmental impact assessment report , of which the scope shall not be extended subsequently. where the specific projects have adopted all feasible mitigation measures , any killing or disturbance of the species protected under article 12(1) of directive 92/43/eec and article 5 of directive 2009/147/ec shall not be considered deliberate. where novel mitigation measures to prevent as much as possible the killing or disturbance of species protected under council directive 92/43/eec and directive 2009/147/eec , or any other environmental impact , have not been widely tested as regards their effectiveness , member states may allow their use for one or several pilot projects for a limited time period , provided that the effectiveness of such measures is closely monitored and appropriate steps are taken immediately if they do not prove to be effective. the permit-granting process for the repowering of projects and for new installations with an electrical capacity of less than 150 kw , co-located storage facilities as well as their grid connection , located outside renewables go-to areas shall not exceed one year including environmental assessments where required by relevant legislation. where duly justified on the ground of extraordinary circumstances , this one-year period may be extended by up to three months. member states shall clearly inform the developers about the extraordinary circumstances that justified the extension.


### permit-granting process for the installation of solar energy equipment in artificial structures ### accelerated deployment of solar energy equipment in artificial structures


### (1) member states shall ensure that the permit-granting process referred to in article 16(1) for the installation of solar energy equipment , including building-integrated solar installations , in existing or future artificial structures , with the exclusion of artificial water surfaces , shall not exceed three months , provided that the primary aim of such structures is not solar energy production. by derogation from article 4(2) of directive 2011/92/eu andannex ii , points 3(a) and (b) , alone or in conjunction with point 13(a) to that directive , such installation of solar equipment shall be exempted from the requirement , if applicable , to carry out a dedicated environmental impact assessment under article 2(1) of directive 2011/92/eu. ### (1) member states shall ensure that the permit-granting process referred to in article 16(1) for the installation of solar energy equipment , in existing or future artificial structures , with the exclusion of artificial water surfaces , shall not exceed three months , provided that the primary aim of such structures is not solar energy production. for rooftop solar installations below 50 kw , member states shall ensure only simplified authorisation procedures are in place. requirements for construction permits shall be removed in case still in place. member states shall also establish a roadmap to remove other barriers and to enhance the accelerated deployment of solar energy.


### by 31 december 2026 , on all new public and commercial buildings with useful floor area larger than 250 square meters; ### by 31 december 2026 , on all new public and commercial buildings with useful floor area larger than 100 square meters;


### by 31 december 2027 , on all existing public and commercial buildings with useful floor area larger than 250 square meters; and ### by 31 december 2027 , on all existing public and commercial buildings with useful floor area larger than 150 square meters; and


### member states shall define , and make publicly available , criteria at national level for the practical implementation of these obligations , and for possible exemptions for specific types of buildings , in accordance with the assessed technical and economic potential of the solar energy installations and the characteristics of the buildings covered by this obligation. ### member states shall define , and make publicly available , criteria at national level for the practical implementation of these obligations , and for possible exemptions for specific types of buildings , in accordance with the assessed technical and economic potential of the solar energy installations , necessary energy grid infrastructure deployment and the characteristics of the buildings covered by this obligation.


### — having regard to the risks that the legal and illegal international trade in wild animals poses to the health of humans and animals , ### — having regard to the risks that the legal and illegal international trade in wild animals poses to the health of humans and animals , and to the environment ,


### b. whereas the destruction of natural habitats and both the illegal and legal trade in and the use of wildlife contributes significantly to biodiversity decline , undermines global efforts to combat climate change and induces corruption; ### b. whereas the aim of cites is to ensure that the international trade in wild animals and plants does not pose a threat to the survival of the species in the wild; whereas the destruction of natural habitats and both the illegal and legal trade in and the use of wildlife contributes significantly to biodiversity decline , undermines global efforts to combat climate change and induces corruption;


### c. whereas wildlife trade poses a potentially high risk of the emergence of zoonoses; ### c. whereas wildlife trade poses a potentially high risk of the emergence of zoonoses; whereas there is a need for better and more exhaustive control of trade in live animals and meat trade;


### e. whereas pelagic shark populations have dropped by 71 % since 1970 , and more than 50 % of shark species are threatened or near threatened with extinction3 ; ### e. whereas pelagic shark populations have dropped by 71 % since 1970 , and more than 50 % of shark species are threatened or near threatened with extinction3 ; whereas 20% of reef shark populations have been found to be functionally extinct; whereas in 2020 eu member states were the source of over 45% of all shark fin-related products imported into three major trading centres - hong kong sar , singapore , and taiwan;


### 1. underlines the clear need for a more precautionary approach to the protection of wildlife given the continued threat posed by the wildlife trade to individual animals , species , and human and animal health; ### 1. underlines the clear need for a more precautionary approach to the protection of wildlife given the continued threat posed by the wildlife trade to individual animals , species , and human and animal health , and the environment;


### 3. calls on all parties to increase protection for whistle-blowers , who play an essential part in putting a stop to the illegal wildlife trade; ### 3. calls on all parties to ensure the protection of whistle-blowers , journalists , wildlife rangers , environmental human rights defenders and environmental activists , who play an essential part in putting a stop to the illegal wildlife trade and in the protection of the environment;


### 5. welcomes the annual illegal trade reports as a significant step towards developing a better understanding of wildlife trafficking and urges the eu and all parties to submit them in a timely manner; ### 5. welcomes the annual illegal trade reports as a significant step towards developing a better understanding of wildlife trafficking and urges the eu and all parties to submit them in a timely manner; highlights that these reports should include information on permits and certificates granted , quantities and types of specimens , as well as names of species as included in appendix i , ii , iii; urges the eu and the parties to ensure that data is uploaded to the cites trade database in a timely manner and that further efforts are made to ensure that discrepancies in export and import permits are minimised;


### 6. urges all parties and the eu to ensure transparency in the cites secretariat’s activities and operations , including by publishing the annual illegal trade reports , and that data is uploaded to the cites trade database; ### 6. considers that more transparency in the commercial trade of appendix i species , including captive-bred , is key to fight corruption , illegal trade , trafficking and laundering of specimens; urges all parties and the eu to ensure transparency in the cites secretariat’s activities and operations , including by making the annual illegal trade reports publicly available;


### 8. calls on all parties to guarantee sufficient funding for the proper implementation of the entire convention , including its enforcement; calls on the commission and the member states to increase their financial support to the implementation of cites decisions; ### 8. notes with concern that many cop18 decisions remain unfunded; calls on all parties to guarantee sufficient funding for the proper implementation of the entire convention , including its enforcement; calls on the commission and the member states to increase their financial support to the implementation of cites decisions;


### 9. calls for the eu and all parties to the convention to explore mechanisms for ensuring that external funding for cites decisions is consistent with the priorities of their work programmes; ### 9. highlights that the implementation of many of the cites decisions is subject to the availability of external funding; calls for the eu and all parties to the convention to explore mechanisms for ensuring that external funding for cites decisions is consistent with the priorities of their work programmes;


### 11. urges parties to achieve the aim of ensuring that all trade in wild fauna and flora is legal and sustainable by 2025; emphasises that the goal should be to eliminate illegal trade in cites-listed wildlife species , not only to reduce it; ### 11. urges parties to achieve the aim of ensuring that all trade in wild fauna and flora is legal and sustainable by 2025; emphasises that the goal should be to eliminate illegal trade in cites-listed wildlife species , including captive-bred , not only to reduce it;


### 16. welcomes the revision and continuation of the eu action plan against wildlife trafficking; calls on the commission to publish it without delay; ### 16. welcomes the revision and continuation of the eu action plan against wildlife trafficking; calls on the commission to publish an ambitious eu action plan without delay;


### 17. calls on the commission and member states to tackle both online and offline trade in the revised eu action plan against wildlife trafficking , ensuring that wildlife cybercrime is given the same level of priority as other cybercrimes that threaten human health , the economy , security and education; ### 17. calls on the commission and member states to tackle both online and offline trade in the revised eu action plan against wildlife trafficking , ensuring that wildlife cybercrime is given the same level of priority as other cybercrimes that threaten human health , the environment , the economy , security and education;


### 18. urges the commission and the member states to promote the development and adoption of an ambitious and robust protocol under the un convention against transnational organized crime , which would include a provision criminalising the import of and trade in wildlife that has been taken illegally from its country of origin; ### 18. urges the commission and the member states to promote the development and adoption of an ambitious and robust protocol under the un convention against transnational organized crime , as referred to in the eu strategy to tackle organised crime 2021-20258a , which would include a provision criminalising the import of and trade in wildlife that has been taken illegally from its country of origin;


### 22. calls for the adoption of a new resolution that encourages parties to adopt a one health approach to wildlife use and trade when implementing the convention , and to undertake appropriate risk analyses with respect to animal , human and environmental health; ### 22. underlines the important role of the commission and member states in coordinating and supporting the one health approach in the eu and advocating it at all international fora; calls for the adoption of a new resolution that encourages parties to adopt a one health approach to wildlife use and trade , using the operational definition of one health developed by the one health high-level expert panel (ohhlep) , when implementing the convention , and to undertake appropriate risk analyses with respect to animal , human and environmental health when considering applications for wildlife trade-related permits and certificates;


### sharks ### sharks and rays


### 26. welcomes the commission proposal for a council decision which includes an appendix ii proposal that would bring the entire family of hammerhead sharks under cites regulation; ### 26. welcomes therefore the commission proposal for a council decision which includes an appendix ii proposal that would bring the entire family of hammerhead sharks under cites regulation;


### 27. urges the eu to support the proposal led by the host country of the 19th meeting of the conference of the parties , panama , to list requiem sharks (family carcharhinidae) in appendix ii; ### 27. urges the eu , which plays a key role in global shark fisheries and trade , to support the proposal led by the host country of the 19th meeting of the conference of the parties , panama , to list requiem sharks (family carcharhinidae) in appendix ii , with the rest of the family carcharhinidae qualifying to be included as lookalike species due to similarity of appearance;


### trade in live african elephants ### african elephants


### 30. calls on the commission to fully support and actively advocate the inclusion of all african elephants in appendix i of cites; ### 30. calls on the commission to fully support and actively advocate the inclusion of all african elephants in appendix i of cites and to oppose attempts to secure the downlisting of any elephant populations;


### (6) the proposed concentration limits in annexes iv and v to regulation (eu) 2019/1021 have been set applying the same methodology that was used to establish the concentration limits in previous amendments of annexes iv and v to regulation (ec) no 850/2004. the proposed concentration limits should achieve the objective of a high level of protection of human health and the environment associated to the destruction or irreversible transformation of the substances concerned. those limits should also take into consideration the broader policy objective of achieving a climate-neutral and circular economy , enshrined in the european green deal26 . ### (6) the proposed concentration limits in annexes iv and v to regulation (eu) 2019/1021 have been set applying the same methodology that was used to establish the concentration limits in previous amendments of annexes iv and v to regulation (ec) no 850/2004. the proposed concentration limits should achieve the objective of a high level of protection of human health and the environment associated to the destruction or irreversible transformation of the substances concerned. those limits should also take into consideration the broader policy objective of achieving a climate-neutral and clean circular economy and non-toxic material cycles , enshrined in the european green deal26 and the eu action plan: 'towards zero pollution for air , water and soil'26a.


### ‘pentachlorophenol , its salts and esters ### 87-86-5 and others


### ‘alkanes c10-c13 , chloro (short-chain chlorinated paraffins) (sccps) ### 85535-84-8


### ‘tetrabromodiphenyl ether c12h6br4o ### 40088-47-9 and others


### ‘hexabromocyclododecane(4) ### 25637-99-4 , 3194-55-6 , 134237-50-6 , 134237-51-7 , 134237-52-8


### a. whereas the forestry sector is an essential contributor to achieving the eu target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 % by 2030 , while also being a major source of biodiversity and playing an important role in the lives of communities; ### a. whereas forests are an essential contributor to achieving the eu target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 % by 2030 , while also being a major source of biodiversity and playing an important role in the lives of communities;


### 1. recalls the eu’s responsibility in the protection , restoration and resilience of the world’s forests , which should prioritise proforestation in forest management as a strategy for increasing carbon sequestration and biodiversity benefits; ### 1. recalls the eu’s responsibility in the protection , restoration and resilience of the world’s forests , which should prioritise proforestation in forest management as a strategy for increasing carbon sequestration and biodiversity benefits; in that sense underlines in particular the importance of increasing tree cover , restoring damaged ecosystems and regenerating soils through reforestation and afforestation programmes based on clear ecological principles while pursuing the achievement of agenda 2030.


### 2. recognises the multifunctional role of forests; stresses that policies that enhance biodiversity will help tackle climate change; calls on the eu to address the challenges and trade-offs resulting from the increasing demand for wood for materials , energy and the bioeconomy and the related rising risks of embodied deforestation imports , land grabbing , illegal logging and violation of indigenous peoples’ and local communities’ rights; ### 2. recognises the multifunctional role of forests; stresses that policies that enhance biodiversity will help tackle climate change; calls on the eu to address the challenges and trade-offs resulting from the increasing demand for wood for materials , energy and the bioeconomy and the related rising risks of embodied deforestation imports , land grabbing , illegal logging and violation of indigenous peoples’ and local communities’ rights; asks the commission and its member states to maintain the commitment to fighting against illegal logging as well as trade in illegal timber and forest-risk commodities


### 2. recognises that the maintenance and protection of healthy and resilient forests is a fundamental goal of all actors in forestry and the forest-based value chain , as well a key priority for people in the eu; ### 2. recognises that the maintenance and protection of healthy and resilient forests , and hence sustainable forest management , is a fundamental goal of the forest strategy for 2030 , all actors in forestry and the forest-based value chain , as well a key priority for people in the eu;


### 3. stresses that eu bioenergy policy , notably the renewable energy directive , must meet strict environmental and social criteria , reflecting the need to ensure effective recognition of and respect for customary land tenure rights of forest-dependent communities and of indigenous people; ### 3. stresses that eu bioenergy policy , notably the renewable energy directive , must meet strict environmental and social criteria , reflecting the need to ensure effective recognition of and respect for customary land tenure rights of forest-dependent communities and of indigenous people; calls on the commission to address explicitly the human rights of indigenous peoples and local communities under forest law , governance and trade voluntary partnership agreements (flegt vpas);


### 3. is concerned by the increasing pressure on the eu’s forests and their habitats and stresses the urgent need to increase forest and ecosystem resilience; ### 3. is concerned by the increasing pressure on the eu’s forests and their habitats and stresses the urgent need to increase forest and ecosystem resilience , while overall the pressure on forests must be reduced; stresses that climate change will have an even greater negative impact on european forests in the coming years and that this will particularly affect areas with mono-specific and equal-aged forests; stresses that the growth of european forests has decreased in recent years; underlines , in this connection , the special role of stable mixed forests including native species of trees suited to local conditions , as well as the essential role that mixed forests play in ecosystems and their contribution to biodiversity;


### 3. is concerned by the increasing pressure on the eu’s forests and their habitats and stresses the urgent need to increase forest and ecosystem resilience; ### 3. is concerned by the increasing pressure on the eu’s forests and their habitats and stresses the urgent need to increase forest adaptation to climate change and ecosystem resilience;


### 4. calls on the union and its member states to exclude burning forest biomass from any renewable energy targets; ### 4. 4. welcomes the additional strengthened sustainability criteria for bioenergy proposed by the commission for the revision of the renewable energy directive; calls on the union and its member states to exclude burning forest biomass from any renewable energy targets when this bioenergy does not complies with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria of the revisited renewable energy directive ;


### 4. emphasises that the eu’s forests are characterised by diverse natural conditions , ownership patterns , forms of governance , challenges and opportunities , and that they have been formed by centuries of human intervention and management; ### 4. emphasises that the eu’s forests are characterised by diverse natural conditions , ownership patterns , forms of governance , challenges and opportunities , and that they have been formed by centuries of human intervention and management and therefore may constitute a cultural asset;


### 5. recognises the complexity of assessing the state of forests , as well as the uneven availability and quality of data and therefore stresses the need for continuous policy and scientific dialogue at all levels to improve data collection and harmonisation; ### 5. recognises the complexity of assessing the state of forests , as well as the uneven availability and quality of data and therefore stresses the need for continuous policy and scientific dialogue at all levels to improve data collection and harmonisation , as well as the need for financial and human resources , in particular so that both resource-efficient uses and forest use limits can be identified at an early stage;


### 6. recalls that the sustainability chapters of trade agreements must contain binding and enforceable forest-specific , human rights and responsible business conduct provisions; ### 6. recalls that the sustainability chapters of trade agreements must contain binding and enforceable forest-specific , human rights and responsible business conduct provisions; insists on the strategic importance of robust , coherent and enforceable sustainability chapters in trade agreements , along with an effective implementation of multilateral environmental and climate agreements; invites the commission to carefully assess the impacts of trade agreements on deforestation in the sustainability impact assessments (sias) and other relevant assessments , based on solid data and evaluation methodologies.


### 6. underlines that the strategy must align with the work undertaken in international forums , such as forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , and should avoid duplicating work; further believes that , given the eu’s strong commitment to promoting the sustainable use of resources globally , the strategy should be implemented in such a way as to serve as a model of best practices; ### 6. underlines that the strategy must align with the work undertaken in international forums , such as forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , and should avoid duplicating work and increasing administrative burden; further believes that , given the eu’s strong commitment to promoting the sustainable use of resources globally , the strategy should be implemented in such a way as to serve as a model of best practices;


### 7. calls for the forestry sector to feature prominently in the 30 % spending target on climate of the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) – global europe , including financial or technical assistance for forest-producer partner countries. ### 7. calls for the forestry sector to feature prominently in the 30 % spending target on climate of the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) – global europe , including financial or technical assistance for forest-producer partner countries; calls on eu delegations in third countries to promote the exchange of best practices and disseminate european know- how in this regard.


### protection , restoration and sustainable management ### protection , restoration , re- and afforestation and sustainable management


### 13. takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing additional voluntary indicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; underlines the need to align the commission’s work with that of forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , as well as to engage with the member states to ensure that indicators and value ranges are fit-for-purpose for their application at the local level under specific bio-geographic conditions; ### 13. takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing additional voluntary indicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; underlines the need to align the commission’s work with that of forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , as well as to engage with the member states' national and regional competent authorities , public and private forest managers to ensure that indicators and value ranges are fit-for-purpose for their application at the local level under specific bio-geographic conditions; points out that coherence must be achieved with the forest europe think thank on sustainable forest management , since the european commission and all eu member states are among forest europe signatories;


### 13. takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing additional voluntary indicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; underlines the need to align the commission’s work with that of forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , as well as to engage with the member states to ensure that indicators and value ranges are fit-for-purpose for their application at the local level under specific bio-geographic conditions; ### 13. welcomes the commission’s announcement on developing additional voluntary indicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; underlines the need to align the commission’s work with that of forest europe and the food and agriculture organization , as well as to engage with the member states to ensure that indicators and value ranges are fit-for-purpose for their application at the local level under specific bio-geographic conditions;


### 14. highlights that pressure on forests from natural disasters and other disturbances is being increasingly intensified by climate change and that strengthening forests’ resilience is a matter of urgency; notes the role that restoration and afforestation can play in strengthening resilience and enhancing biodiversity; notes that sustainable forest management consists of a broad array of actions and adaptive practices , many of which can play a key role in climate mitigation; ### 14. highlights that pressure on forests from diseases and parasites , natural disasters and other disturbances is being increasingly intensified by climate change , particularly in the regions of europe facing the highest average temperature rises , such as the mediterranean , and that strengthening the resilience of the various forest ecosystems is a matter of urgency; notes the role that restoration and afforestation can play in strengthening resilience and enhancing biodiversity; notes that sustainable forest management consists of a broad array of actions and adaptive practices , many of which can play a key role in climate mitigation;


### 14. highlights that pressure on forests from natural disasters and other disturbances is being increasingly intensified by climate change and that strengthening forests’ resilience is a matter of urgency; notes the role that restoration and afforestation can play in strengthening resilience and enhancing biodiversity; notes that sustainable forest management consists of a broad array of actions and adaptive practices , many of which can play a key role in climate mitigation; ### 14. highlights that pressure on forests from pests and diseases , natural disasters and other disturbances is being increasingly intensified by climate change and that strengthening forests’ adaptation resilience is a matter of urgency; notes the role that restoration and afforestation can play in strengthening resilience and enhancing biodiversity; notes that sustainable forest management consists of a broad array of actions and adaptive practices , many of which play a key role in climate mitigation;


### 15. takes note of the ongoing work on guidance for ‘closer-to-nature’ forestry by the working group on forests and nature; believes that to ensure added value , guidance on this concept should incorporate results-oriented , scientifically and locally proven sustainable forest management practices to give managers the tools to yield connections and cooperation on better integrating biodiversity protection with improved management practices; ### 15. takes note of the ongoing work on guidance for ‘closer-to-nature’ forestry by the working group on forests and nature; believes that to ensure added value , guidance on this concept should be in full respect of the subsidiarity principle and should incorporate a menu of results-oriented , scientifically and locally proven sustainable forest management practices to give managers the tools to yield connections and cooperation on better integrating biodiversity protection with improved management practices; calls on the european commission to provide incentives for forest owners , local managers , the forest industry and the national competent authorities to engage in "closer-to-nature" forestry practices;


### 16. reiterates its call for the protection of primary and old-growth forests and stresses the need to create a definition for what constitutes old-growth forests; welcomes the ongoing work of the working group on forests and nature and underlines the need to consider a diverse set of attributes and ensure flexibility to account for specific conditions in bio-geographic regions and forest types; ### 16. reiterates its call for the protection of primary and old-growth forests and stresses the need to set a definition , build upon existing definitions and based on a comprehensive eu framework , for what constitutes primary and old-growth forests with member states and forest stakeholders before any designation; welcomes the ongoing work of the working group on forests and nature and underlines the need to consider a diverse and comprehensive set of attributes and ensure flexibility to account for specific and diverse conditions in bio-geographic regions and forest types across all member states;


### 16. reiterates its call for the protection of primary and old-growth forests and stresses the need to create a definition for what constitutes old-growth forests; welcomes the ongoing work of the working group on forests and nature and underlines the need to consider a diverse set of attributes and ensure flexibility to account for specific conditions in bio-geographic regions and forest types; ### 16. reiterates its call for the protection of primary and old-growth forests and stresses the need to create a definition for what constitutes old-growth forests; welcomes the ongoing work of the working group on forests and nature and underlines the need to consider a diverse set of attributes and ensure flexibility to account for specific conditions in bio-geographic regions and forest types; underlines the importance of providing financial incentives for the establishment of certain old-age forests in the future;


### 17. notes that the european agricultural fund for rural development is the main source of support for forestry measures; further notes that between 2014 and 2020 , member states only spent 49 % of the available funds , and that the commission has identified administrative burden , insufficient attractiveness of the premiums and a lack of advisory services as reasons for this low usage; ### 17. notes that the european agricultural fund for rural development is the main source of support for forestry measures , accounting for 90% of total eu forestry financing; further notes that between 2014 and 2020 , member states only spent 49 % of the available funds , and that the commission has identified administrative burden , insufficient attractiveness of the premiums , no adequate remuneration for the provision of ecological services7a and a lack of advisory services as reasons for this low usage; outlines that the european commission’s 2017evaluation of forestry measures concluded that the effect of rural development support for forests was generally positive and could contribute significantly to delivering economic , environmental and social benefits8a;


### 19. acknowledges the important contribution of existing certification schemes to the further uptake of sustainable forest management; takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing a ‘closer-to-nature’ certification scheme; encourages the commission to cooperate with existing certification schemes and believes that to create added value , the certification must offer foresters a price premium for the provision of ecosystem services; ### 19. acknowledges the important contribution of existing certification schemes to the further uptake of sustainable forest management and as an essential tool to meet eutr requirements8a; takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing a voluntary ‘closer-to-nature’ certification scheme; encourages the commission to cooperate with existing certification schemes and believes that to create added value , the certification must be based on a mandatory framework with clear requirements and must offer foresters a price premium for the provision of ecosystem services; calls on the european commission , after concluding the work on the "closer-to-nature" definition , to assess both the added value and the costs for forest owners of such a certification scheme;


### 19. acknowledges the important contribution of existing certification schemes to the further uptake of sustainable forest management; takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing a ‘closer-to-nature’ certification scheme; encourages the commission to cooperate with existing certification schemes and believes that to create added value , the certification must offer foresters a price premium for the provision of ecosystem services; ### 19. acknowledges the important contribution of existing certification schemes to the further uptake of sustainable forest management; highlights the shortcomings of many certification schemes and their lack of transparency for consumers; highlights the fact that the key existing certification schemes are unable to reflect the requirements of the legislation in force;3a takes note of the commission’s announcement on developing a ‘closer-to-nature’ certification scheme; encourages the commission to cooperate with existing certification schemes and believes that to create added value , the certification must offer foresters a price premium for the provision of ecosystem services;


### 22. stresses that the implementation of the strategy must focus on enabling small-holders to deliver on the multiple forest functions and calls on the commission and the member states to ensure that support programmes , payment for ecosystem services schemes and research funding are attractive and easily accessible; ### 22. stresses that the implementation of the strategy must focus on enabling all forest owners and managers to deliver on the multiple forest functions and calls on the commission and the member states to ensure that support programmes , payment for ecosystem services schemes and research funding are attractive and easily accessible;


### 23. underlines the importance of the forestry sector as a provider of jobs in rural communities and notes with concern the steady decline in employment and the high number of accidents in the sector; calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the effects of measures taken under the strategy on employment and work safety and highlights the importance of making this type of employment attractive , taking measures to increase the safety of work and adequately training workers; ### 23. underlines the importance of the forestry sector as a provider of jobs in rural communities and notes with high concern the steady decline of 7% in employment in the forestry and logging sector between 2000 and 2019 , according to eurostat9a and the high number of accidents in the sector; calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the effects of measures taken under the strategy on employment and work safety and highlights the importance of making this type of employment attractive , taking measures to increase the safety of work and adequately training workers;


### 24. stresses the importance of accurate , integrated and up-to-date data on europe’s forests and takes note of the initiative for a legislative proposal for a framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection; underlines that the broad availability , high quality and transparency of data are preconditions to meeting the goals of the strategy and believes that to deliver added value the framework must build on existing mechanisms and processes through a bottom-up approach to best use the expertise and experience present in the member states; ### 24. stresses the importance of accurate , integrated and up-to-date data on europe’s forests and takes note of the initiative for a legislative proposal for a framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection , in full respect of the subsidiarity principle; underlines that the broad availability , high quality and transparency of data are preconditions to meeting the goals of the strategy and believes that to deliver added value the framework must build on existing mechanisms and processes through a bottom-up approach to best use the expertise and experience present in the member states , developed according to internationally agreed commitments and their related member states' competencies;


### 25. believes that in order to ensure the availability of high-quality data , remote sensing technologies must be combined with data acquired by ground-based monitoring and must be interpreted in close cooperation with local experts; ### 25. believes that in order to ensure the availability of high-quality data , remote sensing technologies must be combined and proof checked with data acquired by ground-based monitoring and must be interpreted in close cooperation with local experts;


### 26. takes note of the idea to introduce strategic plans for forests under the framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection; further notes that several member states already have national strategies for forests in place; ### 26. takes note of the idea to introduce strategic plans for forests under the framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection; further notes that several member states already have national strategies for forests in place , but that they cannot be processed and assessed in a uniform manner by the commission;


### 26. takes note of the idea to introduce strategic plans for forests under the framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection; further notes that several member states already have national strategies for forests in place; ### 26. takes note of the idea to introduce strategic plans for forests under the framework on forest observation , reporting and data collection; further notes that several member states already have national strategies for forests in place , therefore work duplication and increasing administrative burden must be avoided;


### 27. believes that due to the multi-functional contribution of forests to high-level eu goals and the different administrative levels and stakeholder groups involved , the cornerstones of the strategy’s implementation must be close cooperation and the exchange of best practices with national and regional experts , stakeholders , forest managers , scientists and civil society; underlines that governance must take eu and member state engagement in international processes into account; ### 27. believes that due to the multi-functional contribution of forests to high-level eu goals and the different administrative levels and stakeholder groups involved , the cornerstones of the strategy’s implementation must be close cooperation and the exchange of best practices with national and regional experts , stakeholders , private and public forest managers , scientists and civil society; underlines that governance must take eu and member state engagement in international processes into account;


### 27. believes that due to the multi-functional contribution of forests to high-level eu goals and the different administrative levels and stakeholder groups involved , the cornerstones of the strategy’s implementation must be close cooperation and the exchange of best practices with national and regional experts , stakeholders , forest managers , scientists and civil society; underlines that governance must take eu and member state engagement in international processes into account; ### 27. believes that due to the multi-functional contribution of forests to eu goals and the different administrative levels and stakeholder groups involved , the cornerstones of the strategy’s implementation must be close cooperation and the exchange of best practices with national and regional experts , stakeholders , forest managers , scientists and civil society; underlines that governance must take eu and member state engagement in international processes into account;


### 29. notes the extensive overlap among policies and legislation that impact forests and the forestry sector and stresses the importance of aligning them; ### 29. notes the extensive and sometimes contradictory overlap among policies and legislation that impact forests and the forestry sector and stresses the importance of aligning them; calls on the commission and the directorates generals with forest related competences to work strategically to ensure coherence in any forestry related work and enhance the sustainable management of forests , in full respect of the subsidiarity principle;


### 29. notes the extensive overlap among policies and legislation that impact forests and the forestry sector and stresses the importance of aligning them; ### 29. notes the extensive overlap among policies and legislation that impact forests and the forestry sector and stresses the importance of aligning them in so far as that is possible; points in this connection to friction between the expectations of the timber industry , and its demand for wood , and expectations that forests will act as carbon sinks and be habitats for flora and fauna;


### 30. expresses its concern about reports of illegal logging and calls on the commission and the member states to increase their efforts to effectively implement relevant national and eu legislation; ### 30. expresses its concern about reports of illegal logging and calls on the commission and the member states to increase their efforts to effectively implement relevant national and eu legislation; stresses that , as a rule , illegal logging is practised by eu citizens with very low incomes; underscores the fact that there would be less illegal logging if living conditions in the eu were as evenly matched as possible;


### 30. expresses its concern about reports of illegal logging and calls on the commission and the member states to increase their efforts to effectively implement relevant national and eu legislation; ### 30. expresses its concern about reports of illegal logging , firmly condemns that illegal logging and deforestation have resulted in cases of murder and violence against forestry personnel , journalists and activists and calls on the commission and the member states to increase their efforts to effectively implement relevant national and eu legislation and define illegal logging;


### b. whereas the tfeu makes no reference to a common eu forest policy; whereas article 4 tfeu provides for a shared competence on environmental policy; whereas due to the specific diversity of the eu’s forests with regard to bio-geography , structure , size , biodiversity and ownership patterns , where environmental policy touches upon forests , it is necessary to duly apply the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality in the development and implementation of the new eu forest strategy (the strategy) and relevant eu legislation; ### b. whereas the tfeu makes no reference to a common eu forest policy; whereas article 4 tfeu provides for a shared competence on environmental policy; whereas due to the specific diversity of the eu’s forests with regard to bio-geography , structure , size , biodiversity and ownership patterns , where environmental policy touches upon forests , it is necessary to duly apply the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality in the development and implementation of the new eu forest strategy (the strategy) and relevant eu legislation; stresses the need for further european-level coordination of national forest policies in order to take into account the important role of forests in achieving european climate objectives and to be able to calculate potential emission reductions and forest use limits more precisely at european level;


### d. whereas about 60 % of the eu’s forests are owned by 16 million private forest owners , of whom a significant share are small-holders; whereas involving and motivating these owners through a comprehensive policy and legislative framework , based on the recognition of their property rights , experience as managers and specific challenges , will be key to achieving the strategy’s targets , including the provision of climate and other ecosystem services; ### d. whereas about 60 % of the eu’s forests are owned by 16 million private forest owners , of whom a significant share are small-holders , while the other share of approximately 40% of eu's forests is publicly owned; whereas involving and motivating these owners through a comprehensive policy and legislative framework , based on the recognition of their property rights , experience as managers and specific challenges , will be key to achieving the strategy’s targets , including the provision of climate and other ecosystem services; whereas member states are obliged to set an example for sustainable forest management in their publicly owned forests for the public good;


### e. whereas most recent data gathered under article 17 of the habitats directive indicates that only 49 % of forests habitats have a good conservation status; whereas focusing solely on aggregated data might be insufficient to identify and address key information on the most urgent issues and it is therefore necessary to consult more specific indicators on trends in condition and pressures; whereas these indicators do not support an overall negative assessment of the state of the eu’s forests , but show both positive and negative trends that require nuanced responses; ### e. whereas most recent data gathered under article 17 of the habitats directive indicates that only 49 % of forests habitats are in good condition , the status of 29.6 % of habitats is unknown and 21.1 % are in poor condition; whereas focusing solely on what is in many instances inadequate aggregated data might be insufficient to identify and address key information on the most urgent issues and it is therefore necessary to consult more specific indicators on trends in condition and pressures and help ensure that missing data is available in future; whereas these indicators do not support an overall negative assessment of the state of the eu’s forests , but show both positive and negative trends that require nuanced responses;


### e. whereas most recent data gathered under article 17 of the habitats directive indicates that only 49 % of forests habitats have a good conservation status; whereas focusing solely on aggregated data might be insufficient to identify and address key information on the most urgent issues and it is therefore necessary to consult more specific indicators on trends in condition and pressures; whereas these indicators do not support an overall negative assessment of the state of the eu’s forests , but show both positive and negative trends that require nuanced responses; ### e. whereas most recent data gathered under article 17 of the habitats directive indicates that only 49 % of forests habitats have a good conservation status; whereas focusing solely on aggregated data might be insufficient to identify and address key information on the most urgent issues and it is therefore necessary to consult more specific local indicators on trends in condition and pressures; whereas these indicators do not support an overall negative assessment of the state of the eu’s forests , but show both positive and negative trends that require nuanced case-by-case responses;


### 8. recognises the key role of forests in protecting the climate and biodiversity; underlines that the multi-functional role of forests comprises multiple socioeconomic functions , such as the provision of raw materials , which leads to jobs and economic growth in rural areas , the provision of clean water and air , protection against natural hazards and recreational value; stresses that the implementation of the strategy must ensure a balanced provision of all services and maintain competitiveness and innovation; underlines that the successful provision of services requires sustainable active management; ### 8. recognises the key role of forests and the entire forest-based vaolue chain in protecting the climate and biodiversity and in achieving , by 2050 , a sustainable and climate-neutral economy; underlines that the multi-functional role of forests comprises multiple socioeconomic functions , such as the provision of raw and nature-based materials , which leads to jobs and economic growth in rural areas , the provision of clean water and air , protection against natural hazards and recreational value; stresses that the implementation of the strategy must ensure a balanced provision of all services and maintain competitiveness and innovation; underlines that the successful provision of services requires sustainable active management;


### 8. recognises the key role of forests in protecting the climate and biodiversity; underlines that the multi-functional role of forests comprises multiple socioeconomic functions , such as the provision of raw materials , which leads to jobs and economic growth in rural areas , the provision of clean water and air , protection against natural hazards and recreational value; stresses that the implementation of the strategy must ensure a balanced provision of all services and maintain competitiveness and innovation; underlines that the successful provision of services requires sustainable active management; ### 8. recognises the key role of forests in mitigating climate change and in protecting biodiversity; underlines that the multi-functional role of forests comprises multiple functions , such as the provision of raw materials , which leads to jobs and economic growth in rural areas , the provision of clean water and air , protection against natural hazards and recreational value; stresses that the implementation of the strategy must ensure a balanced provision of all services and maintain competitiveness and innovation; underlines that the successful provision of services requires sustainable active management;


### 9. stresses that forests contribute to climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration , carbon storage and the substitution of wood and wood products for fossil fuels and derived products; notes that the strategy has a particular focus on storage in the construction sector and believes its implementation should support a broader use of different options for substitution , in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy; ### 9. stresses that forests contribute to climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration , carbon storage and the substitution of wood and wood products for fossil fuels , fossil-based products , materials and energy sources and derived products; notes that the strategy has a particular focus on storage in the construction sector and believes its implementation should support a broader use of different options so as to ensure the best combination of sequestration , storage and substitution , in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy and in order to achieve a post-fossil-fuel economy;


### 9. stresses that forests contribute to climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration , carbon storage and the substitution of wood and wood products for fossil fuels and derived products; notes that the strategy has a particular focus on storage in the construction sector and believes its implementation should support a broader use of different options for substitution , in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy; ### 9. stresses that forests contribute to climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration , carbon storage and the substitution of wood and wood products for fossil fuels and derived products; notes that the strategy has a particular focus on storage in the construction sector and believes its implementation should support a broader use of different wood-based substitutes , in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy;


### 10. highlights that for wood-based products to contribute optimally to climate change mitigation and a circular economy requires that they be used in the most efficient and sustainable way; believes that the cascading principle8is a good guideline for efficient use , but must not use a static approach and therefore must be adjusted regularly to reflect innovative uses; stresses that a well-functioning , un-distorted market incentivises the efficient use of wood-based resources; ### 10. highlights that for wood-based products to contribute optimally to climate change mitigation and a circular economy requires that they be used in the most efficient and sustainable way; stresses that timber removals must be restricted by sustainability limits and that wood , which is a limited resource , should be used in the best possible way in accordance with the cascading principle; stresses that , in a market serving the public interest , it must be ensured that wood-based resources are used as efficiently as possible;


### 10. highlights that for wood-based products to contribute optimally to climate change mitigation and a circular economy requires that they be used in the most efficient and sustainable way; believes that the cascading principle8 is a good guideline for efficient use , but must not use a static approach and therefore must be adjusted regularly to reflect innovative uses; stresses that a well-functioning , un-distorted market incentivises the efficient use of wood-based resources; ### 10. highlights that for both the long-lived and short-lived wood-based products to contribute optimally to climate change mitigation and a circular economy requires that they be used in the most efficient and sustainable way; believes that the cascading principle8 is an important guideline for efficient use , but must not use a static approach and therefore must be adjusted regularly to reflect innovative uses; stresses that a well-functioning , un-distorted market incentivises the efficient use of wood-based resources;


### 11. underlines the importance of a reliable supply of wood , wood-based products and forest-based biomass to achieve the eu’s sustainability goals and notes that the demand is expected to continue to grow; believes that the eu’s forestry sector provide the most sustainably sourced raw materials; calls on the commission to consider displacement effects and monitor any effects on the availability of wood following the implementation of measures under the strategy; ### 11. underlines the importance of a reliable supply of wood , wood-based products and forest-based biomass to achieve the eu’s sustainability goals , including the 2050 carbon neutrality objective , and notes that the demand is thus expected to continue to grow; believes that the eu’s forestry sector provide the most sustainably sourced raw materials; calls on the commission to consider displacement effects and monitor any effects on the availability of wood following the implementation of measures under the strategy;


### 12. recalls that 2.1 million people work in the forest-based sector , while the extended forest-based value chain supports 4 million jobs in the green economy; calls on the commission and the member states to assess the effects of a shift in the balance of forest functions on the overall employment situation; ### 12. recalls that 2.1 million people work in the forest-based sector , while the extended forest-based value chain supports 4 million jobs in the green economy , not accounting for retail activities and non-wood activities such as forest-related leisure activities , scientific work on forests , etc.; calls on the commission and the member states to assess the effects of a shift in the balance of forest functions on the overall employment situation , especially in rural and mountainous areas; highlights the important role that forests play in the creation of green jobs and in growth in rural areas;


### 12. recalls that 2.1 million people work in the forest-based sector , while the extended forest-based value chain supports 4 million jobs in the green economy; calls on the commission and the member states to assess the effects of a shift in the balance of forest functions on the overall employment situation; ### 12. recalls that 2.1 million people work in the forest-based sector , while the extended forest-based value chain supports 4 million jobs in the green economy; calls on the commission and the member states to assess the effects of a shift in the balance of forest functions on the overall employment situation; underscores the fact that the more simplified and intensive forest management is , the lower the employment rate will be;2a


### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste. it establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination. ### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste , including in third countries , with a particular view on transitioning towards a circular economy by following the proximity principle and reducing the impact that the european union’s waste has on third countries. it contributes to the union’s objective of achieving climate neutrality by 2050 at the latest and to the transition to a fully circular non-toxic economy and establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination.


### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste. it establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination. ### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste and the treatment of waste at its destination. it establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination.


### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste. it establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination. ### this regulation lays down measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing the adverse impacts which may result from the shipment of waste and enhancing circular economy. it establishes procedures and control regimes for the shipment of waste , depending on the origin , destination and route of the shipment , the type of waste shipped and the type of treatment to be applied to the waste at its destination.


### shipments of waste in transit through the union on the way to or from third countries. ### shipments of waste in transit through the union , on the way from and to third countries.


### (6) ‘notifier’ means: ### (6) ‘person who arranges for the shipment’ means:


### in the case of a shipment originating from a member state , any natural or legal person under the national jurisdiction of that member state who plans or carries out a shipment of waste and to whom the duty to notify is assigned , and who is listed below: ### in the case of a shipment originating from a member state , any natural or legal person under the national jurisdiction of that member state who plans or carries out a shipment of waste or who has had a shipment of waste carried out , and who is listed below:


### in the case of import into , or transit through , the union of waste that does not originate in a member state , any of the following natural or legal persons under the national jurisdiction of the country of dispatch who plans or carries out a shipment of waste or intends to have , or who has had , a shipment of waste carried out: ### in the case of import into , or transit through , the union of waste that does not originate in a member state , any of the following natural or legal persons under the national jurisdiction of the country of dispatch who plans or carries out a shipment of waste or who has had a shipment of waste carried out:


### (24) ‘shipment’ means the transport of waste destined for recovery or disposal from the point of loading until the waste is recovered or disposed of in the country of destination , which is planned to take place , or takes place: ### (24) ‘shipment’ means the transport of waste destined for recovery or disposal , which is planned to take place , or takes place:


### 3. shipments of the following wastes destined for recovery shall be subject to the general information requirements laid down in article 18 , if the amount of waste shipped exceeds 20 kg: ### 3. shipments of the following wastes destined for recovery shall be subject to the general information requirements laid down in article 18:


### the amount of waste does not exceed 150 kg or any higher amount agreed on a case-by-case basis by the competent authorities concerned and the notifier. ### the amount of waste does not exceed 150 kg for laboratory analysis , 25 000 kg for experimental treatment trials or any higher amount agreed on a case-by-case basis by the competent authorities concerned and the notifier.


### 5. paragraph 2 shall apply to shipments of mixed municipal waste collected from private households , from other waste producers or from both , as well as to mixed municipal waste which has been subject to a waste treatment operation that has not substantially altered its properties , where such waste is destined for recovery operations. shipments of such waste destined for disposal shall be prohibited. ### 5. paragraph 2 shall apply to shipments of mixed municipal waste collected from private households , from other waste producers or from both , as well as to mixed municipal waste which has been subject to a waste treatment operation that has not substantially altered its properties (e.g. refuse derived fuels) , where such waste is destined for recovery operations. shipments of such waste destined for disposal shall be prohibited.


### 1. only notifiers that have received a permit or are registered in accordance with chapter iv of directive 2008/98/ec may submit a prior written notification (‘notification’). ### 1. notifiers that have received a permit or are registered in accordance with chapter iv of directive 2008/98/ec or waste producers or operators of experimental treatment trials may submit a prior written notification (‘notification’).


### 1. all shipments of waste for which notification is required shall be subject to the requirement of a financial guarantee or equivalent insurance , covering all the following costs: ### 1. all shipments of waste shall be subject to the requirement of a financial guarantee or equivalent insurance , covering all the following costs:


### 6. by way of derogation from paragraph 5 , where the waste shipped is destined for interim recovery operations or disposal operations and a further recovery operation or disposal operation takes place in the country of destination , the financial guarantee or equivalent insurance may be released when the waste leaves the interim facility and the competent authority concerned has received the certificate referred to in article 16(4). in that case , any further shipment to a recovery or disposal facility shall be covered by a new financial guarantee or equivalent insurance unless the competent authority of destination is satisfied that such a financial guarantee or equivalent insurance is not required. in those circumstances , the competent authority of destination shall be responsible for obligations arising in the case of take-back where the shipment or the further recovery or disposal operation cannot be completed as intended , as referred to in article 22 , or in the case of an illegal shipment , as referred to in article 24. ### 6. by way of derogation from paragraph 5 , where the waste shipped is destined for interim recovery operations or disposal operations and a further recovery operation or disposal operation takes place in the country of destination , the financial guarantee or equivalent insurance may be released when the waste leaves the interim facility and the competent authority concerned has received the certificate referred to in article 16(4). in that case , any further shipment to a recovery or disposal facility shall be covered by a new financial guarantee or equivalent insurance unless the shipment is done between two facilities under the control of the same legal entity or unless the competent authority of destination is satisfied that such a financial guarantee or equivalent insurance is not required.


### the waste cannot be recovered in a technically feasible and economically viable manner , or must be disposed of due to legal obligations in union or international law; ### the waste cannot be recovered in a technically feasible , economically viable and environmentally sound manner , or must be disposed of due to legal obligations in union or international law. whereby economic viability is also shown to account for the protection of human health and the environment;


### (ii) the waste cannot be disposed of in a technically feasible and economically viable manner in the country where it was generated; ### (ii) the waste cannot be disposed of in a technically feasible and economically viable and environmentally sound manner in the country where it was generated;


### the notifier or the consignee has previously not been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act in relation to environmental protection; ### the notifier or the consignee has previously not been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act including to environmental , human health protection;


### the notifier or the consignee has previously been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act in relation to environmental protection. ### the notifier or the consignee has previously been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act including to environmental , human health or worker protection.


### evidence or attestation that the legal or natural person owning or exercising control over the facility has not been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act in relation to waste management. ### evidence or attestation that the legal or natural person owning or exercising control over the facility has not been convicted of illegal shipment or any other illegal act in relation to waste management , in particular with regard to the protection of the environment , human health or worker protection.


### 9. unless stated otherwise in the decision to approve the request for pre-consent , the pre-consent of a recovery facility shall be valid for seven years. ### 9. unless stated otherwise in the decision to approve the request for pre-consent , the pre-consent of a recovery facility shall be valid for five years with at least one audit conducted by surveillance authorities during the validity period in order to verify compliance with the latest regulatory requirements , notably on restriction of substances of concern and alignment with the best available techniques conclusions adopted for certain activities under the regime of directive 2010/75/eu of the european parliament and of the council of 24 november 2010 on industrial emissions.


### 10. a pre-consent of a recovery facility may be revoked at any time by the competent authority. a decision to revoke a pre-consent shall be duly motivated and communicated to the facility concerned. ### 10. a pre-consent of a recovery facility may be revoked at any time by the competent authority. prior consultation with the person concerned (operator of the recovery facility) is needed if:


### 2. the person under the national jurisdiction of the country of dispatch who arranges the shipment shall complete and submit the relevant information contained in annex vii , no later than one day before the shipment takes place. ### 2. the person under the national jurisdiction of the country of dispatch who arranges the shipment shall complete and submit the relevant information contained in annex vii , no later than the day of shipment.


### 3. the person referred to in paragraph 2 shall ensure that the information referred to in that paragraph is made electronically available , including during the time of the transport , to the relevant authorities. ### 3. the person referred to in paragraph 2 shall ensure that the information referred to in that paragraph is made electronically available , including during the time of the transport , to the relevant authorities. sentence one shall not apply in the case of waste shipments of green listed waste in the union according to annex iii.


### 4. the recovery facility or the laboratory and the consignee or , in case they have no access to a system referred to in article 26 , the person referred to in paragraph 2 shall , within one day of receipt of the waste , provide confirmation to the notifier and the relevant authorities that the waste has been received by completing the relevant information contained in annex vii. ### 4. the recovery facility or the laboratory and the consignee or , in case they have no access to a system referred to in article 26 , the person referred to in paragraph 2 shall , within three days of receipt of the waste , provide confirmation to the notifier and the relevant authorities that the waste has been received by completing the relevant information contained in annex vii.


### 5. the recovery facility shall , as soon as possible and no later than 30 days after completion of the recovery operation , and no later than one calendar year after receipt of the waste , certify , under its responsibility , that the recovery has been completed by completing the relevant information contained in annex vii. ### 5. the recovery facility shall , as soon as possible and no later than 30 days after completion of the recovery operation , and no later than one calendar year after receipt of the waste , certify , under its responsibility , that the recovery or , in case of unintentional delay , an interim recovery has been completed by completing the relevant information contained in annex vii.


### the competent authorities of dispatch or destination shall make publicly available by appropriate means information on notifications of shipments they have consented or objected to , as well as on shipments of waste subject to the general information requirements , where such information is not confidential under national or union legislation. ### the competent authorities of dispatch or destination shall make publicly available by appropriate means information on notifications of shipments they have consented or objected to , as well as on shipments of waste subject to the general information requirements , where such information is not confidential under national or union legislation. sentence one shall not apply in the case of waste shipments in the union or shipments of green listed waste in accordance to annex iii.


### the competent authorities of dispatch or destination shall make publicly available by appropriate means information on notifications of shipments they have consented or objected to , as well as on shipments of waste subject to the general information requirements , where such information is not confidential under national or union legislation. ### the competent authorities of dispatch and destination shall make publicly available through the electronic exchange system information on notifications of shipments they have consented or objected to , as well as on shipments of waste subject to the general information requirements , where such information is not confidential under national or union legislation.


### 3. the take-back obligation set out in paragraph 2 shall not apply if the competent authorities of dispatch , transit and destination involved are satisfied that the waste can be recovered or disposed of in an alternative way in the country of destination or elsewhere by the notifier or , if that is not possible , by the competent authority of dispatch or by a natural or legal person on its behalf. ### 3. the take-back obligation set out in paragraph 2 shall not apply if the competent authorities of dispatch , transit and destination involved are satisfied that the waste can be recovered or disposed of in an alternative way in the country of destination or elsewhere by the notifier or , if that is not possible , by the competent authority of dispatch or by a natural or legal person on its behalf , and providing evidence is produced and made publicly available in the country of dispatch , in the country of destination , in the country of transit and in the potential new country of transit and destination that the recovery or disposal of the waste will not lead to increased risks on human health and the environment.


### 4. in order to facilitate the harmonised classification of waste listed in annex iii , annex iiia , annex iiib or annex iv in the union , the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 76 to supplement this regulation by establishing criteria , such as contamination thresholds , on the basis of which certain wastes shall be classified in annex iii , iiia , iiib or iv. ### 4. in order to facilitate the harmonised classification of waste listed in annex iii , annex iiia , annex iiib or annex iv in the union , the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 76 to supplement this regulation by establishing criteria , such as contamination thresholds , on the basis of which certain wastes shall be classified in annex iii , iiia , iiib or iv. the adoption of new delegated acts establishing contamination thresholds shall only serve to strengthen , not weaken , previous or current guidelines or delegated acts.