Despite growing awareness and efforts to recycle, a significant amount of plastic waste in the EU still isn’t recycled. Over the past few years, the EU has been moving towards a circular economy for plastics. But the journey towards a plastic-free future is a long one, and we all need to do our bit.

How the EU is fighting plastic pollution: from single-use bans to microplastics

At a glance: Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomes ceasefire in Gaza as a turning point; the EU moves towards a greener future with circular economy measures; and the European capitals of excellence for 2025.

News in Brief – 17/01/2025 - English

Europe is experiencing a demographic shift like never before. By 2050, nearly one third of the EU’s population will be aged 65 and over. The EU’s ageing population will have profound implications across various areas, including healthcare, social welfare, the labour market and the economy. EU policies for older people focus on several key areas: active ageing, social inclusion, health and long-term care, and financial security. What the EU needs now is a comprehensive strategy for older persons.

Towards a European strategy for older persons

Electrification is gaining momentum across many sectors, including transport, buildings and industry, driven by the EU's climate ambition and security of supply. As the cost of renewable energy technologies like solar and wind continues to fall, electrification presents an opportunity to reshape the European economy, enhancing competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth.

EPRS Science and Technology podcast - What if electrification transformed the EU economy?

Digital trade has become a key element in the EU's trade policy. The EU is the world's largest exporter and importer of digitally deliverable services and has a strong market position. Therefore, the development towards more digital trade provides opportunities for European consumers, for the economy and for the EU’s green and digital transition. The key difference between digital trade and traditional trade is the prominence of cross-border data flows. However, certain data are considered 'sensitive' and require protection and/or specific processing conditions.

EPRS Policy Podcast - The EU's digital trade policy

Today: new rules to support a circular economy, the EU ban on greenwashing, and greener trucks and buses.

News in Brief – 16/02/2024 - English

The EU is an open economy, reliant on global supply chains to a higher extent than the US and China. At the same time, these complex chains are subject to increasing disruptions and uncertainties with many areas of fragility. De-risking Europe’s global critical supply chains (particularly in the context of relations with China), points towards a more nuanced way of ensuring Europe's ambitions for increased resilience and strategic autonomy. It can be achieved by increasing domestic production, greater autonomy in the critical raw materials, use of trade tools and cooperation on a global stage.

EPRS Policy podcast - Future shocks 2023: De-risking Europe's global critical supply chains

The single market is one of the most important achievements of European integration and one of its main drivers. Established on 1 January 1993, the single market allows goods, services, people and capital to move freely within the European Union. Since its creation, the single market has stimulated trade and increased the EU’s importance as a global trading partner. It makes life easier for citizens and boosts growth and competition by creating new opportunities for European businesses.

Thirty years of the European single market: achievements and future challenges

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;©Eugene_Photo / AdobeStock

The global economy is changing rapidly, requiring decisive action to safeguard and strengthen Europe's competitiveness, prosperity, and fairness, including in relation to other global actors. The recently-proposed&nbsp;Automotive Industry Plan, announced on 5 March 2025, it is intended to support the European automotive sector as it deals with high manufacturing costs, the low-carbon transition, and increased competition from China.&nbsp;

Parliament reviews recent Commission proposals to support the EU steel and metals industries, and the EU’s approach to other energy-intensive industries.The sector, which is critical for the EU's security of supply, is facing high energy costs and unfair global competition at a time when money is needed to pay for decarbonisation.

European competitiveness

Candidate countries include Montenegro, Albania, Serbia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina are considered potential candidates.

In order to apply for EU membership a country has to be European and respect the EU’s democratic values. It also needs stable institutions guaranteeing democracy and the rule of law; a functioning market economy; and the ability to take on and carry out the obligations of EU membership.

EU Enlargement - Western Balkans (2019-2020)

The EU has developed a policy to support the gradual integration of the Western Balkan countries with the Union. The EU aims to promote peace, stability and economic development in the region&nbsp;and open up the prospect of EU integration.

In order to apply for EU membership a country has to be European and respect the EU’s democratic values. It also needs stable institutions guaranteeing democracy and the rule of law; a functioning market economy; and the ability to take on and carry out the obligations of EU membership.

Parliament is fully involved in the Stabilisation and Association Process &nbsp;and must also consent to any new accession to the EU. In addition, through its budgetary powers, it has direct influence over the amounts allocated to the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance. Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs appoints standing rapporteurs for all candidate and potential candidate countries. Parliament expresses its positions on enlargement in the form of annual resolutions responding to the Commission’s latest annual country reports.

On 1&nbsp;July&nbsp;2013, Croatia became the first of the seven countries to join, and Montenegro, Serbia, the Republic of North Macedonia and Albania are official candidates. Accession negotiations and chapters have been opened with Montenegro and Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo are potential candidate countries.

EU Enlargement - Western Balkans

EP President Metsola made&nbsp;a statement at the opening of the February session, followed by a full debate on the emergency humanitarian aid the EU can provide to Türkiye and Syria after the catastrophic earthquake, which cost the lives of more than 30 000&nbsp;people and destroyed tens of thousands of buildings, leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.

Turkey has been candidate for EU membership since 1999. Accession negotiations started in 2005. In recent years the EU is often criticizing the backsliding of the country in certain areas. As a major emerging economy and a member of NATO and G20, Türkiye&nbsp;is recognised as an active regional foreign policy player, with a strategic location, including for the EU's energy security. Turkey is a key strategic partner of the EU on issues such as migration, security, counter-terrorism, and the economy, but according to the EU has been backsliding in the areas of democracy, rule of law and fundamental right.

EU - Türkiye

Parliament reviews recent Commission proposals to support the EU steel and metals industries, and the EU’s approach to other energy-intensive industries.

On Wednesday morning, MEPs hold an initial debate with the European Commission on its new action plan to transition to a competitive and decarbonised steel and metals industry in Europe. The sector, which is critical for the EU's security of supply, is facing high energy costs and unfair global competition at a time when money is needed to pay for decarbonisation.

Energy-intensive industries

In a separate debate on Wednesday, MEPs are set to highlight the crucial role energy-intensive industries, such as chemicals, steel, paper, cement and glass, play in the EU economy.

In a draft resolution on which MEPs vote on Wednesday, they propose faster permit-granting processes for clean energy projects and the swift implementation of electricity market design legislation, to lower energy costs, improve energy system integration and increase investment in grid infrastructure. Simplifying administrative procedures and securing the availability of critical and secondary raw materials are essential, the draft text says, to attract private investment and support decarbonisation.

EP Plenary debate on EU steel support and the role of energy intensive industries

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde. MEPs are likely to question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues

ECON: Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, ECB President

Four women fighting for freedom, peace and justice in their home countries – from Belarus, leader of the country's democratic forces Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and Palina Sharenda Panasiuk; and Lenie Umerova and Tata Kepler from Ukraine – have all been invited to address plenary., Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of Belarus’ democratic forces, 

will speak to MEPs at a solemn session on Tuesday at noon. 

In the early afternoon, MEPs and Council and Commission representatives will debate the Commission’s “Roadmap for Women’s Rights” (expected to be adopted by the Commission on Friday 7 March). The discussion is expected to focus on the EU’s role in safeguarding and advancing women’s rights and the principles and measures outlined in the Roadmap. Key issues will include the implementation of EU legislation, such as the first ever EU rules to combat violence against women, the rules on improving gender balance on corporate boards, and binding pay transparency measures. MEPs are also likely to discuss the need for women’s equal participation in the economy and society, including in politics, and the impact of shifting political dynamics on women’s rights and gender equality.

International Women's Day Celebration

EU leaders are meeting for a special summit to discuss continued support for Ukraine and European defence and exchange views on European contributions to the necessary security guarantees required to ensure a lasting peace in Ukraine.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is invited to the meeting.

Since the start of Russia’s military aggression, the EU and its member states have provided nearly €135 billion in support for Ukraine and its people, including €48.7 billion to support the Ukrainian armed forces.

The EU has also adopted unprecedented sanctions against Russia: the latest sanctions, adopted on 24 February 2025, target vital areas of the Russian economy, including banking, Putin’s shadow fleet and goods and technologies in the industrial and energy sectors.

More info: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/european-council/2025/03/06/

Special European Council

ENVI - Exchange of views with Jessika Roswall, Commissioner responsible for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, as part of the structured dialogue

With fast fashion, the quantity of clothes produced and thrown away has boomed. Find out more about the environmental impact and what the EU is doing about it.

Fast fashion is the constant provision of new styles at very low prices.

To tackle the impact on the environment, the EU wants to reduce textile waste and increase the life cycle and recycling of textiles. This is part of the plan to achieve a circular economy by 2050.

The impact of textile production and waste on the environment

Every year 2.2 billion tonnes of waste are generated in the EU. More than a quarter of it (27%) is municipal waste: everyday waste collected and treated by municipalities, which is mainly generated by households. Data shows that the amount of waste and the way it is managed varies a lot across EU countries, but there has been a shift to more recycling and less landfilling.

To reduce waste and its impact on the environment, the EU has adopted ambitious targets on recycling and landfill and is working on packaging waste. The goal is to promote the shift towards a more sustainable model known as the circular economy.

Waste management in the EU: infographic with facts and figures

Ten years ago, 196 countries agreed on a collective effort to keep global warming below 2 degrees Celsius and tackle the effects of climate change in the historic Paris Agreement. With the launch of the European Green Deal in 2019, the EU aims to become the first climate neutral economy globally by 2050. However, Europe remains the fastest-warming continent, and is, according to the European Environment Agency’s 2024 assessment, not prepared for the rapidly growing climate risks it faces. What is the future of the European Green Deal after the 2024 European elections? How can the EU balance economic growth with the urgent need for climate action? How do we protect vulnerable groups, such as indigenous people from paying a disproportionately high price for the climate crisis? How can we ensure that the green transition is fair and inclusive? What is the EU doing to prevent greenwashing and false green claims?

EYE2025 - Towards climate justice? Evaluating the EU's green transition

. Welcome remarks by New Economy Forum
. Introduction by Mr. Javi López, Vice-President of the European Parliament
. Speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President
. Q&A session

Forum Europa - Ideas to Strengthen the Union

Delegation for Relations with Israel - Ordinary Meeting - Exchange of Views on EU-Israel Relations in the Field of Economy, with Mr. Nir Barkat, Minister of Economy and Industry of the State of Israel

Press point by Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, Commissioner-designate for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification

Press point by Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, France), Chair of ECON, following the confirmation hearing of Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification

Confirmation hearing of Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, Commissioner-designate, Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification

JURI - Exchange of views with Valdis Dombrovskis, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Omar PAGANINI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Uruguay and Azucena ARBELECHE, Minister of Economy and Finance of Uruguay

TRAN - Presentation of a study on the Role of the Longevity Economy in the tourism

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Madrid (Spain) - Participation in the Forum Europa Award Ceremony of the Nueva Economía Forum

ECON JURI - Confirmation hearing of Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, European Commissioner-designate for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification.- Press point

ECON JURI - Confirmation hearing of Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, European Commissioner-designate for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification

ENVI - Confirmation hearing of Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner-designate for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy - Press point

ENVI - Confirmation hearing of Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner-designate for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy

This infoclip illustrates the European Union’s aspects that enhance its global competitiveness. The EU is working to boost its global competitiveness, its ability to grow sustainably, innovate, and create quality jobs. From digital finance to green industry and cutting-edge research. This infoclip highlights the key sectors and values driving a strong, resilient European economy fit for the future.

Infoclip: European competitiveness

Roberta METSOLA, EP President visits the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), on Wall Street in New York City. The NYSE is the largest stock exchange in the world by market capitlization. The NYSE plays a crucial role in the global economy by enabling companies to raise capital and investors to buy and sell shares. Extracts from the meeting of Roberta METSOLA, EP President, with NY Stock Exchange leadership, tour of the trading floor, and NYSE closing bell.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to New York (United States) : extracts from the meeting with NY Stock Exchange leadership, tour of the trading floor, and NYSE closing bell

&lt;p>Carmen CRESPO DÍAZ (EPP, ES), Chair of PECH Committee of the European Parliament, reacts to the adoption by the European Commission of the European Ocean Pact today. The European Ocean Pact is a comprehensive strategy to better protect the ocean, promote a thriving blue economy and support the well-being of people living in coastal areas. The Pact brings together EU ocean policies under one single reference framework, addressing the significant threats facing our ocean, our coastal communities, islands and outermost regions.&lt;/p>

European Oceans Pact: statement by Carmen CRESPO DÍAZ (EPP, ES), Chair of PECH Committee

This infoclip illustrates different aspects of civil preparedness strategy and civil protection, such as a citizen buying a crisis preparedness kit, a municipal safety point where citizens can come to get information and electricity in a crisis situation, and a civil defense shelter in Sweden. The Niinistö Report on Preparedness and Readiness of the EU concluded that strengthening Europe's civilian and military preparedness and readiness to address today's growing security challenges – in health, migration, technology security, climate, defense or the economy – is a matter of urgency. The Commission therefore launched the Preparedness Union Strategy to support Member States and enhance Europe's capability to prevent and respond to emerging threats, among other things by way of promoting population preparedness and encourage the public to adopt practical measures, such as maintaining essential supplies for a minimum of 72 hours in emergencies.

Infoclip: Civil Preparedness Strategy

MEPs discuss with the Council and the Commission how the EU can contribute to achieving a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace deal for Ukraine. The debate focus on the EU’s political, financial and military support for Ukraine, and its role in efforts to secure a peace settlement that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is based on international law. MEPs underline the importance of long-term commitment to Ukraine and the need for international coordination in building a lasting peace.

EU support for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace in Ukraine: closing statements by Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, and by Adam SZŁAPKA, Polish Minister for European Affairs

MEPs suggest urgent measures to alleviate the impact of droughts, such as higher wastewater reuse, increased water savings in the buildings and industrial sectors and enhanced water efficiency in agriculture. Investments in water storage techniques are also critical to sustaining water supplies during dry periods. Closing statements

The European Water Resilience Strategy: closing statements by Thomas BAJADA (S&D, MT), rapporteur, and Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy

MEPs suggest urgent measures to alleviate the impact of droughts, such as higher wastewater reuse, increased water savings in the buildings and industrial sectors and enhanced water efficiency in agriculture. Investments in water storage techniques are also critical to sustaining water supplies during dry periods. Opening statements by Thomas BAJADA (S&D, MT), rapporteur, and Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

The European Water Resilience Strategy: opening statements by Thomas BAJADA (S&D, MT), rapporteur, and Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy

MEPs evaluate the outcome of the 20 March European Council in a plenary debate with Presidents António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen in Strasbourg. MEPs emphasize the need for EU strategic autonomy in response to US tariffs, advocating for a simplified market economy by cutting red tape. However, some caution that economic reforms should not come at the expense of the Green Deal’s goals. This news item shows extracts from the statements of MEPs and atmosphere shots of the Chamber.

Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 20 March 2025: extracts from the debate

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the European Council meeting (20/03): Doorstep. Addressing the European Council today in Brussels, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola highlighted the following topics: Ukraine, economy and MFF.

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