17/03/2021 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 17 March, the EU27 ambassadors to the EU (Coreper) approved the finalised compromise on the Comprehensive Environmental Action Programme (8th EAP) for 2050 and gave a mandate to the Portuguese Presidency of the EU Council to start negotiations with the European Parliament when the latter is ready, most likely in June. The 8th EAP should accelerate the green transition to a climate-neutral, resource-efficient, clean and circular economy in a fair and inclusive way, protecting, preserving, sustainably using and restoring biodiversity and enhancing the EU’s natural capital as well as protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environmental risks and impacts. The mandate also clarifies the articulation between the 8th EAP and the European Green Deal and strengthens the framework for monitoring progress (see EUROPE 12678/12). (AN)