PES Environment Ministers voice support for the Clean Industrial Deal and international cooperation

Ahead of the Environment Council today, PES Environment ministers gathered in Brussels to discuss how the Clean Industrial Deal drives climate action and competitiveness, and how to reinforce international cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to strengthen global environmental policies.

The first discussion analysed the proposals of the Clean Industrial Deal through an environmental lens which connects competitiveness and industrial, economic growth with climate action, decarbonisation, clean technology, circularity, and chemicals. Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera provided important insights into guaranteeing a just transition and stressed the importance of gaining public support and accelerating investments in renewable energy and clean tech to decarbonise European industries, create quality jobs, support workers in the just transition, and boost our economies. Ministers concluded the exchange by agreeing that the Clean Industrial Deal paves the way for Europe to become more competitive, sustainable, decarbonised, and resilient.

Next, ministers reiterated their commitment to global environmental policies and climate action. As the EU strives to be the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, it must lead the way and stay on track to the Paris Agreement and COP16 Biodiversity goals. COP30 in Brazil this year will be an important opportunity for the EU the engage in green diplomacy and reaffirm its efforts to reducing global levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

This meeting was chaired by Danish Minister of Environment and Gender Equality Magnus Heunicke, who said:

“Our citizens, industries, and planet are all affected by climate change, slow economic growth, volatile energy prices, and global competition. Yet, European industries have the potential to tackle these issues and boost competitiveness, economic growth, and mitigate climate change.

2024 was the warmest year on record. We still have a chance to achieve the objectives of the Paris Agreement, but the data and science are concerning and confirm once again the need for determined action. There can be no pause in the race to preserve the planet.

Fighting climate change on a domestic, national level is insufficient, we need global partnerships and international cooperation. COP30 will be a significant moment to update the international community on our Nationally Determined Contributions and our committed efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The meeting was attended by:

• Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition
• Magnus Heunicke, Minister of Environment and Gender Equality, Denmark
• Manol Genov, Minister of Environment and Water, Bulgaria
• Hugo Morán Fernández, Secretary of State for the Environment, Spain
• Mohammed Chahim, S&D Vice-President, European Parliament
• Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary General, PES