Brussels, 30/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - The Commission's strategy for the competitiveness of the construction sector hinges largely on the potential of low energy buildings.
Industry Commissioner Antonio Tajani unveils his action plan on Tuesday for the construction sector, one which produces 10% of the EU's GDP (includes manufacturers of construction products, architects, engineers and others involved in building) and provides 20 million jobs, in particular in micro and small businesses, but one which is in difficulty because of reduced demand as a result of the financial and economic crisis, both on the private residential and infrastructure markets. The importance of this action plan is clear for a sector which has seen a 17% reduction in work between January 2008 and April 2012 because of the crisis, the bursting of the property bubble, contraction of the credit market, the constant need for skilled workers, and unfair competition on international markets where non-EU operators can receive state aid.
The Commission's strategy has five priority areas. It seeks, firstly, to improve improving conditions for investment, in particular in the renovation and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, by promoting financial instruments (loan guarantees and bonds) and incentives at national level (reduction in VAT rates). It seeks also to encourage innovation and improve workers' qualifications, to improve resource efficiency by promoting mutual recognition of sustainable construction systems in the EU. The Commission is also looking to provide standard design codes of practice for construction companies making it easier for them to work in other member states. Finally, the Commission wants to foster the global position of European construction companies to encourage good performance and sustainable standards in third countries. (EH/transl.rt)