January 2014 editorial
2014 begins loaded with major challenges for the environment in Europe. The announcement by the Commission of a low climate ambition 2030 climate and energy framework was a major policy drawback, which justifiably caused the disappointment of environmental groups. The shale gas frenzy, which has contaminated environmental decision-making at the level of the European Commission also raises serious concerns.
Yet, despite the fact that the current political recipe to the crisis is not intertwined with social and ecological sustainability, certain political initiatives, such as the new mining code currently drafted by the French Government, show that Europe retains pockets of political prudence. On a similar path, Portugal is beginning to plan for a green shift, in the framework of its tax policy reform. Can we hope for a slow and shy revival of a green vision for Europe?
We sincerely hope you find this bulletin on the environmental dimensions of the crisis interesting and useful to your work. Please share with us any information you consider “hot” and relevant.
Theodota Nantsou, WWF Greece & Isabella Pratesi, WWF Italy