On Wednesday 9 December, the European Commission presented its Communication on the ‘European Climate Pact’, an initiative to engage stakeholders and civil society in climate action and more sustainable behaviour.
“With the Pact, we want to help everyone in Europe take action in their everyday lives, and give everyone the opportunity to get involved in the green transition and inspire each other”, said the Commission’s Executive Vice-President in charge of the European Green Deal, Frans Timmermans.
Via an online platform, the Pact will provide a space for everyone (regions, local communities, industries, schools, civil society...) to learn about the climate crisis, share information, debate, and develop and implement solutions, with the aim of creating a growing European climate movement.
Stressing that accurate fact-finding is essential to combat climate disinformation and dispel myths, the Commission thus intends to strengthen: (1) raising awareness and (2) supporting climate action.
In its initial phase, the Pact will focus on four priority areas for action which, according to the Commission, “offer immediate benefits not only for the climate and the environment, but also for the health and wellbeing of citizens”: green areas, green mobility, efficient buildings and green skills.
Its scope should then evolve according to the ideas and contributions of the individuals and organisations that will be involved. To this end, an annual event will bring participants together to share their experiences and knowledge.
In addition, a dedicated secretariat will ensure the implementation of the Pact, under the leadership of the Commission.
Pact Ambassadors
As part of this initiative, the Commission has also launched an appeal inviting individuals and organisations to become ambassadors of the Pact. The role of these ambassadors will be to lead by example and engage their communities in climate action.
A launch event for the Pact will take place online on 16 December and will include a presentation of the first Pact ambassadors.
See Commission communication: https://bit.ly/2VXyOW8 (Original version in French by Damien Genicot)