Brussels, 13/03/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 14 March in Brussels, the Citizens' Parliament on Sustainable Development" will open, marking the European day of sustainable development, which forms part of the International Day for Consumer Rights.
Political decision-makers, representatives from the BEUC (European Consumers' Organisation) and MEPs will participate in this meeting, which is expected to conclude with a manifesto for putting into practice the variety of initiatives in favour of sustainable development through Europe and raising awareness among the European authorities about the need to adopt an integrated policy for greater sustainable consumption. Debates will focus on the following themes: what actions to take to uncouple economic growth from consumption of resources and producing waste? How can eco-products and fair trade be promoted? What should be done with products after consumption? How can re-use and recycling be promoted? Conclusions and perspectives: action programme for a European eco-consumption day.
MEP, Yves Piétrrasanta (French Green) signatory of the manifesto on behalf of the Greens/EFA at the EP, "Sustainable consumption should not be left to the initiative based on supply motivated above all by productivity and economic profitability and which leaves the consumer's participation in an impasse with regard to the citizen's dimension. Future consumption must take into account the three pillars of sustainable development: economic, ecological and social". At the time when Parliament is examining the consumer policy strategy for 2002-2006 and the Green Book on consumer protection in the Union, the Greens consider, regrettably, that the Commission's proposals barely take into account the environment. Mr Piétrasanta is therefore proposing to reflect on the feasibility of a general direction on environmental quality in service products offered to consumers.