Euractiv
Powering Europe's competitiveness: delivering clean energy and infrastructure for growth
- Title
- Powering Europe's competitiveness: delivering clean energy and infrastructure for growth
- Runtime
- 1:19:26
- Date posted
- 3 days ago
- Description
- Europe faces a defining economic challenge: how to strengthen competitiveness and industrial resilience while staying on course for decarbonisation.
As policymakers implement the EU’s competitiveness agenda – from the Competitiveness Compass to the Clean Industrial Deal and the evolving “Made in Europe” agenda – attention is increasingly turning to a critical question: how can Europe accelerate investment in the infrastructure needed to power both the green and digital transitions?
Affordable, reliable and sustainable energy, modern grids, electrified transport and stronger digital infrastructure are no longer climate issues alone – they are central to Europe’s economic future, industrial strategy and long-term resilience.
Yet significant barriers remain. Europe continues to face investment gaps in low-carbon technologies, power infrastructure and transport systems, while businesses seek greater regulatory clarity and faster deployme...
- Title
- Inside the AI-CODE Consortium Meeting | Madrid 2026
- Runtime
- 7:30
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- The AI-CODE consortium met in Madrid in May 2026 to review project progress, align on the next phase of development, and strengthen collaboration across the partnership.
This video features highlights from the two-day meeting, together with interviews from consortium partners sharing updates on their research, recent achievements, and the work they are carrying out to develop trustworthy AI services for emerging digital environments.
Discussions covered project progress, validation activities, sustainability and impact, deployment planning, and preparations for the project's final phase.
Follow the AI-CODE project as we continue working towards secure, transparent, and trustworthy AI solutions.
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- Title
- Europe’s competitiveness in emerging technologies
- Runtime
- 1:33:41
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Europe’s competitiveness in emerging technologies – What is the role of standards, markets and quantum innovation?
Europe’s ability to compete globally increasingly depends on how effectively it can develop, scale and deploy advanced technologies that drive productivity and long term growth. As competition intensifies in high technology sectors, EU policymakers and stakeholders are examining how Europe can convert strong research capabilities into commercially viable innovation, while ensuring that emerging technologies contribute to economic resilience and societal value.
Two key technology domains sit at the centre of Europe’s bid to strengthen its industrial competitiveness and strategic autonomy: advanced connectivity and quantum technologies. European firms and standards bodies have played a decisive role in shaping global mobile standards from 3G to 5G, underpinning the digital economy. At the same time, quantum technologies are emerging as a cri...
- Title
- Tech Policy Conference 2026
- Runtime
- 4:41:08
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Two years into von der Leyen 2.0’s Commission: Are the EU’s digital rules surviving or thriving?
Two years into Ursula von der Leyen’s second Commission, technology is playing an unprecedented geopolitical role, after US Big Tech aligned itself with the Trump administration – which has openly threatened the EU with retaliatory tariffs and sanctions if the bloc enforces its digital rulebook on US tech. As a taster, Trump slapped travel restrictions on a former EU tech commissioner (Thierry Breton) early in 2026. High profile American tech CEOs have joined in with attacks on the bloc, with the likes of X owner Elon Musk openly insulting EU regulations and institutions.
At the same time, the von der Leyen Commission has been preoccupied with how to boost competitiveness and productivity – eyeing chasing the AI boom. The Commission’s Digital Omnibus package has seen the EU move to relax long-standing privacy standards and delay AI rules under a simplif...
- Title
- Industry Insights with Klaus Waechter, Vice-President, KNX Association
- Runtime
- 0:48
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Full length interview can be found here:
https://www.euractiv.com/video/industry-insights-with-klaus-waechter-vice-president-knx-association/
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- Title
- Industry Insights with Klaus Waechter, Vice-President, KNX Association
- Runtime
- 43:21
- Date posted
- 10 days ago
- Description
- Euractiv Advocacy Lab’s Industry Insights talks to Klaus Waechter, Vice-President, KNX Association – Global Standardisation Management, Siemens Smart Infrastructure to dive into the world of smart building automation designed to deliver scalable energy savings. Can smart building technologies help the EU’s climate ambitions and bring it back on track with its energy efficiency targets?
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- Title
- Hybrid construction as a solution to mitigate climate and housing crises
- Runtime
- 1:18:40
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- The construction sector plays a central role in the EU’s climate objectives. Buildings account for a significant share of Europe’s energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, while the embodied carbon of construction materials is gaining increasing attention in the EU. As Europe advances initiatives such as the European Affordable Housing Plan and the Circular Economy Act, questions are emerging about how construction practices can reduce emissions while remaining cost-effective, scalable and socially inclusive.
Against this backdrop, hybrid construction is receiving growing interest as an approach that combines different building materials according to their respective strengths. Rather than viewing materials as competing alternatives, hybrid construction explores how they can complement one another to optimise structural performance, resource efficiency and lifecycle impacts. In practice, this can involve combining elements or integrating materials within a sing...
- Title
- The EU Fertiliser Action Plan, ETS, CBAM and the Fertiliser Industry
- Runtime
- 1:59:13
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Panel 1: The EU Fertiliser Action Plan – Balancing affordability, resilience and transition
The Fertiliser Action Plan from the European Commission aims to address a complex policy triangle: ensuring affordability for farmers, strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy, and ensuring that European fertiliser producers are fit to transition to low-carbon fertiliser production. This panel will unpack how these objectives interact in practice.
Participants will discuss short-term measures, including support for farmers and enhanced collaboration across the value chain. At the same time, the discussion will explore enabling conditions to maintain and strengthen domestic production capacity, improve access to competitively priced energy and raw materials, and reinforce resilience against global market shocks.
A key focus will be the feasibility of scaling low-carbon and circular fertilisers, including through labelling and creating market incentives....
- Title
- The EU Fertiliser Action Plan, ETS, CBAM and the Fertiliser Industry
- Runtime
- 2:34:46
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- Panel 1: The EU Fertiliser Action Plan – Balancing affordability, resilience and transition
The Fertiliser Action Plan from the European Commission aims to address a complex policy triangle: ensuring affordability for farmers, strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy, and ensuring that European fertiliser producers are fit to transition to low-carbon fertiliser production. This panel will unpack how these objectives interact in practice.
Participants will discuss short-term measures, including support for farmers and enhanced collaboration across the value chain. At the same time, the discussion will explore enabling conditions to maintain and strengthen domestic production capacity, improve access to competitively priced energy and raw materials, and reinforce resilience against global market shocks.
A key focus will be the feasibility of scaling low-carbon and circular fertilisers, including through labelling and creating market incentives....
- Title
- Green molecules – How can they strengthen Europe’s energy security and industrial competitiveness?
- Runtime
- 1:23:31
- Date posted
- 24 days ago
- Description
- Europe’s renewed exposure to geopolitical instability has underscored the urgency of reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels. Ensuring a resilient, sustainable and secure energy supply is now a central pillar of the EU’s economic and strategic agenda. In this context, green molecules have been highlighted as one of the key enablers of greater energy autonomy and competitiveness.
To support these goals, the European Commission has proposed the Industrial Accelerator Act, which aims to expand resilient and decarbonised industrial production within the EU. Many stakeholders note, however, that success will depend on whether Europe can overcome the cost and infrastructure barriers associated with scaling new technologies while ensuring a predictable investment environment.
Join this Euractiv Hybrid Conference to explore how green molecules can reinforce Europe’s energy security, improve cost competitiveness and support the creation of strategic Euro...
- Title
- The future of Europe’s machinery manufacturing industry – How can it remain globally competitive?
- Runtime
- 1:21:11
- Date posted
- 26 days ago
- Description
- Europe’s industrial competitiveness is high on the EU's strategic agenda as industries face increasing pressure from global competition, shifting trade dynamics and increasing regulation.
The European machinery and equipment manufacturing industry provides 3 million high-quality and well-paid jobs in Europe, is globally successful and is associated with the 'Made in Europe' quality mark more than almost any other industry.
It provides technologies and equipment that enable other industries across Europe to innovate, produce efficiently, and advance the green and digital transitions. The sector is perceived by many as a genuine European strength, yet its heterogeneity and complexity mean it can fly under the radar of EU policymakers, while at the same time becoming increasingly exposed to unintended regulatory side effects that risk undermining its competitiveness.
European manufacturers must deal with complex regulatory frameworks, rising produc...
- Title
- Using football to promote gender equality
- Runtime
- 3:13
- Date posted
- 27 days ago
- Description
- Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
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- Title
- PET trays keep food fresh, reduce waste and extend shelf-life
- Runtime
- 3:25
- Date posted
- 28 days ago
- Description
- Ghent University food packaging technology expert, Professor Peter Ragaert details the science behind packaging and how it forms part of the solution to reducing food waste.
Did you know that the trays that package your meat, cheese, fish, fruit and vegetables are made of PET, the world's most recycled plastic? Like PET bottles, they are fully recyclable and can also be designed for reuse in various applications.
PET trays offer a circular, food preserving solution that enables Europe's farmers, fisherman and food producers to bring their goods to market unharmed. Their excellent barrier properties preserve freshness, prevent spoilage, enhance shelf-life and reduce food waste. Without them we would face increased waste and emissions, threatening both the Green Deal’s goal to halve food waste by 2030 and the livelihoods of everyone working to put food on our plates.
A Spanish University study on chicken fillets shows that when packed in PET trays under a modified at...
- Title
- Energy poverty and housing in Europe. Does the EU’s evolving policy framework address current needs?
- Runtime
- 1:33:55
- Date posted
- 1 month ago
- Description
- Energy poverty continues to be a topic of discussion across Europe, as households navigate varying levels of access to adequate heating, cooling, and lighting. Recent indicators suggest some improvements, though many households continue to experience challenges linked to energy costs, income constraints, and the energy performance of buildings. In parallel, the concept of summer energy poverty has received growing attention, with interest in understanding how climate trends and heatwaves may influence living conditions and local planning considerations.
A range of EU initiatives provides a framework for examining these issues, including the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the Energy Efficiency Directive, the reform of the Electricity Market Design, and preparations for the Social Climate Fund, which is expected to support measures from 2026. Advisory platforms such as the Energy Poverty Advisory Hub offer tools and guidance to local and regional authorities asse...
- Title
- Energy poverty in Europe. How can EU social, housing and climate policies deliver a fair transition?
- Runtime
- 0:00
- Date posted
- 1 month ago
- Description
- Europe is entering a new phase in the design of its social and economic policies, with renewed attention on inequality and living conditions. The EU Anti-Poverty Strategy and the European Affordable Housing Plan signal a stronger focus on social cohesion, while the implementation of key climate measures, including the extension of carbon pricing to buildings and transport (ETS2), is reshaping the policy landscape. Within this context, ensuring that the green transition is socially balanced has become an increasingly important consideration for policymakers.
Energy poverty sits at the intersection of these agendas. It affects a significant share of households and is closely linked to energy prices, housing quality and income levels. Recent geopolitical developments have contributed to energy market volatility, with impacts that tend to be more pronounced for vulnerable households, reinforcing existing social disparities. Addressing energy poverty is therefore not only a soc...
- Title
- Euractiv's 2026 Health Policy Conference
- Runtime
- 5:02
- Date posted
- 1 month ago
- Description
- This video highlights key moments from Euractiv’s 2026 Health Policy Conference, bringing together policymakers, industry representatives and stakeholders to discuss the state of Europe’s health system. Speakers reflect on Europe’s strengths, including broad access to innovative therapies, while pointing to growing pressures from ageing populations, limited public budgets and rising chronic disease.
The discussion covers the full lifecycle of medicines—from innovation and generics to critical supplies—as well as health security, regulatory reform and long-term sustainability. Participants underline the importance of coordinated action, effective implementation and prevention-focused investment to strengthen resilience and ensure continued access to medicines for patients across Europe.
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- Title
- TODAY matters: why Alzheimer's Disease cannot wait for Health Systems to catch up
- Runtime
- 2:18
- Date posted
- 1 month ago
- Description
- As scientific breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease accelerate and new treatments emerge, Europe stands at a crossroads. The decisions made by policymakers today will determine whether those in need gain access to life-changing innovation.
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- Title
- In conversation with Oleg Shmeljov, Senior Policy Expert at EBA
- Runtime
- 0:28
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Euractiv sits down with Oleg Shmeljov, Senior Policy Expert at the European Banking Authority (EBA), to discuss supervisory reporting and its complexities. Full interview can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkVV7IRRsyo
- Title
- Designing Europe’s next EU budget. How can the 2028-2034 MFF support competitiveness and resilience?
- Runtime
- 1:26:41
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- On 1 January 2025, discussions on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034 moved into a more structured preparatory phase within the EU institutions. These talks come at a challenging moment for Europe, marked by geopolitical instability, weaker economic growth, and ongoing concerns about the EU’s competitiveness. The outcome of the negotiations will have a significant influence on the EU’s economic priorities over the next decade.
Through its “Spending Smarter: An Alternative Vision for the Next EU Budget” initiative, EPICENTER aims to contribute a critical and evidence-based perspective to the debate on EU spending and revenue raising. The initiative looks at how the EU budget can be used more effectively to support innovation, productivity, and economic resilience, while also considering the consequences of current proposals for taxpayers and Member States. It is based on cost-benefit analysis of key spending programmes and an assessment of...
- Title
- Health Policy Conference
- Runtime
- 5:31:12
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Euractiv’s 2026 Health Policy Conference brought together policymakers, industry representatives and stakeholders to discuss the state of Europe’s health system. Speakers reflected on Europe’s strengths, including broad access to innovative therapies, while pointing to growing pressures from ageing populations, limited public budgets and rising chronic disease.
The discussion covered the full lifecycle of medicines, from innovation and generics to critical supplies, as well as health security, regulatory reform and long-term sustainability. Participants underlined the importance of coordinated action, effective implementation and prevention-focused investment to strengthen resilience and ensure continued access to medicines for patients across Europe.
Revisit the programme here: https://events.euractiv.com/event/info/health-policy-conference-2026
For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://events.euractiv.com/
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- Title
- Industry Dialogues in conversation with Oleg Shmeljov, Senior Policy Expert at EBA
- Runtime
- 11:15
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Euractiv sits down with Oleg Shmeljov, Senior Policy Expert at the European Banking Authority (EBA), to discuss supervisory reporting and its complexities. Oleg explains what the EBA has been doing to simplify the reporting burden, outlining what they are working towards and how he sees the future of supervisory reporting.
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- Title
- How are algorithms shaping young Europeans’ political reality?
- Runtime
- 0:48
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- In this Policy Triangle, supported by Sitra, we unpack how social media algorithms shape political debate and young people’s engagement with democracy.
The discussion explores the rise of opinion‑led and engaging political content, the spread of material that sits in regulatory grey areas, and young users’ negative experiences with politics online. It also looks at the growing role of engagement-driven content in shaping opinions, emotions and civic participation.
Experts from Sitra, the European Parliament and CONNECT International debate whether tools such as the Digital Services Act, algorithmic transparency and stronger oversight can help rebuild trust and improve the quality of online political debate.
Continue the conversation and check out Sitra’s latest report "Algorithms and democracy - How social media shapes young Europeans' worldviews".
For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://www.euractiv.com/
...
- Title
- EDF’s Net Zero scenario - A pathway to a competitive, sovereign and decarbonized Europe
- Runtime
- 1:30:06
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Media Partnership
The EDF 2050 Net Zero scenario for Europe outlines the contours of a possible energy future. This new edition projects us into a Europe that firmly chooses competitiveness and sovereignty, while accelerating its path towards carbon neutrality. In a context where geopolitical tensions, energy costs and climate imperatives reshape priorities, EDF unveils an optimized pathway towards a continent that is more independent, more efficient and decarbonised by 2050. A pathway built on reducing final energy demand through large scale electrification of uses, and decarbonisation of energy supply with all low carbon energy sources.
The scenario highlights that climate neutrality is not only an environmental goal: it is also a major economic opportunity, enabling a lasting reduction of total energy costs, a significant decrease in fossil fuel imports, and value creation at the heart of European industries. Through new analyses, in depth projections and f...
- Title
- Energy sector in transition - Aligning EU ETS, climate ambitions and investment realities
- Runtime
- 1:19:51
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- The EU’s increasing climate ambitions and upcoming revision of the Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) mark a critical phase for Europe’s energy sector. Achieving the EU’s 2040 climate target will require significant investments in power generation, networks, flexibility and district heating. Stable regulation and adequate financial support are essential to ensure security of supply, affordable energy prices for households and European industry, and a just transition.
This debate will address one of the EU’s most pressing challenges – restoring competitiveness. Reducing energy prices was a central topic at the European Council in March 2026, which highlighted the need for reforms that take into account the different situations across Member States. In this context, the EU ETS revision should reduce carbon price volatility and mitigate its impact on electricity prices and related costs. At the same time, growing competitiveness challenges have led many Member States...
- Title
- Securing Europe's Future: Tackling Labour Shortages in Private Security
- Runtime
- 5:53
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In these interviews, senior representatives from the European private security sector and trade unions discuss the growing challenge of labour and skills shortages, and why these issues matter not only for businesses, but for public security and societal preparedness across Europe. They underline the essential role the sector plays in safeguarding critical services and responding to evolving security needs.
The video highlights the importance of strong social dialogue and collective bargaining in improving working conditions, career pathways and the overall attractiveness of the profession. Speakers also reflect on the role of public authorities, particularly through public procurement and training policies, in shaping a market that rewards quality, professionalism and innovation rather than cost-driven competition alone.
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- Title
- "It's Rare for Me" Art Exhibit at the European Parliament
- Runtime
- 3:52
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- This event video brings together short interviews with representatives from Chiesi, Members of the European Parliament, patient advocates and patient organisations, recorded at the opening ceremony of the “It’s Rare for Me” art exhibition at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Speakers reflect on the realities of living with rare diseases and the importance of innovation that addresses both medical needs and quality of life.
The conversations also examine the EU policy framework for rare diseases, acknowledging progress through existing initiatives while highlighting the need for greater coherence, stronger coordination and sustained political attention. With perspectives from across policy, industry and civil society, the video underlines the urgency of EU‑level action to reduce disparities and ensure that the voices of people living with rare diseases remain central to decision‑making.
For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://www.euractiv.c...
- Title
- How are algorithms shaping young Europeans’ political reality?
- Runtime
- 32:32
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this Policy Triangle, supported by Sitra, we unpack how social media algorithms shape political debate and young people’s engagement with democracy.
The discussion explores the rise of opinion‑led and engaging political content, the spread of material that sits in regulatory grey areas, and young users’ negative experiences with politics online. It also looks at the growing role of engagement-driven content in shaping opinions, emotions and civic participation.
Experts from Sitra, the European Parliament and CONNECT International debate whether tools such as the Digital Services Act, algorithmic transparency and stronger oversight can help rebuild trust and improve the quality of online political debate.
Continue the conversation and check out Sitra’s latest report "Algorithms and democracy - How social media shapes young Europeans' worldviews". (https://www.sitra.fi/en/publication/algorithms-and-democracy/)
https://www....
- Title
- AIOLIA Meeting Berlin - March 2026
- Runtime
- 10:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The AIOLIA consortium gathered in Berlin on 5–6 March 2026 for its General Assembly, bringing together partners, advisors, and the European Commission under the Horizon Europe programme.
Across two intensive days, the project showcased ten real-world AI use cases - from healthcare and cybersecurity to content moderation and elderly care - highlighting both innovation potential and ethical challenges. Discussions focused on advancing ethics-by-design, developing practical guidelines, and preparing training activities for 2026.
The meeting reinforced collaboration across the consortium and set a clear course for the next phase of AIOLIA’s work.
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- Title
- ALDE Party at 50: We Choose the Future
- Runtime
- 4:08
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Video provided by ALDE
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
For 50 years, ALDE Party – Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe, has worked to shape a more open, democratic and forward-looking Europe.
Since 1976, liberals across Europe have worked to expand freedoms, strengthen democratic institutions and create opportunities for people to thrive. This video looks back at some of those defining moments, but it’s just as much about what lies ahead.
Because today, Europe is facing a different kind of test. Geopolitical instability, economic pressure and growing political polarisation are challenging the sense of progress many once took for granted.
At the same time, many Europeans feel unheard or left behind, told to lower their expectations rather than aim higher. That’s not the path liberals believe in.
Liberals believe Europe’s strength has always come from its ability to adapt, to stay open and to kee...
- Title
- PLENARY: Europe’s agrifood sector: Balancing competitiveness, sustainability and trust
- Runtime
- 32:11
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- As Europe navigates new trade agreements, including the Mercosur deal, and addresses ongoing challenges in the food supply chain, questions arise over market access, tariffs, and fair competition for European producers. At the same time, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and consumer trust in European food remains a priority. This plenary will open the Agrifood Policy Conference with an in-depth look at the EU’s agrifood strategy for the years ahead, exploring how policymakers, industry, farmers, and other stakeholders can work together to strengthen competitiveness, safeguard high standards, and promote a sustainable and resilient agrifood sector.
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- Title
- Euractiv's 2026 Agrifood Policy Conference
- Runtime
- 2:58
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- As Europe navigates new trade agreements, including the Mercosur deal, and addresses ongoing challenges in the food supply chain, questions arise over market access, tariffs, and fair competition for European producers. At the same time, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and consumer trust in European food remains a priority. This plenary will open the Agrifood Policy Conference with an in-depth look at the EU’s agrifood strategy for the years ahead, exploring how policymakers, industry, farmers, and other stakeholders can work together to strengthen competitiveness, safeguard high standards, and promote a sustainable and resilient agrifood sector.
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- Title
- From simplification to implementation - Boosting competitiveness and productivity across the EU
- Runtime
- 1:33:10
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The European Commission is committed to making EU legislation more efficient and easier to implement, aiming to reduce administrative burdens by 25% overall and 35% for SMEs. This agenda is central to the Commission’s efforts to strengthen competitiveness and deliver benefits for citizens and businesses.
To achieve these objectives, the Commission has already introduced a series of simplification initiatives in many areas, as well as 10 Omnibus Packages.
These include sustainable finance, investments, CAP simplification, small mid-caps, defence, chemicals, automotive, environment, digital, and food and feed safety.These initiatives aim to help EU businesses grow and boost their productivity and global competitiveness by making the business environment simpler, less costly, and more efficient.
In parallel, the Commission also aims to improve the practical implementation and enforcement of EU legislation to ensure rules are applied consistently and effec...
- Title
- Decarbonising EU transport with biodiesel
- Runtime
- 4:00
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Video provided by EBB
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
Can we reach a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050 without biofuels? Right now, only 11% of transport energy is renewable. To hit our targets, we need a technology-neutral strategy that includes sustainable biodiesel. The European Biodiesel Board (EBB) represents biodiesel (FAME, HVO, SAF) producers in the EU. In this video EBB President Dickon Posnett, breaks down why biofuels are the "missing link" in the EU's strategy.
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- Title
- The Gen Z Kitchen Festival: What’s Cooking in the Western Balkans
- Runtime
- 3:55
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- This video presents insights from a region‑wide study exploring how Gen Z in the Western Balkans perceives social issues, community engagement, and their relationship with institutions. Researchers, young participants, and experts reflect on emerging trends around trust, participation, and the factors shaping young people’s outlook on their future.
The discussion highlights the coexistence of optimism and uncertainty among Gen Z, as well as their strong interest in contributing to positive change. Speakers also examine the gap between young people’s willingness to engage and the practical barriers they face, emphasising the importance of creating open, accessible spaces for dialogue.
The video offers a snapshot of how this generation sees its role in society today, and why initiatives like the Gen Z Kitchen Festival help amplify youth perspectives across the region.
For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://www.euractiv.com/
Follo...
- Title
- Improving Europe’s water quality - How can the revised UWWTD be implemented fairly and effectively?
- Runtime
- 1:20:06
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- On 1 January 2025, the revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) entered into force. Through this initiative, the European Commission aims to protect human health and improve water quality, and hence the environment, for all EU citizens.
One of the key innovations of the revised Directive is the introduction of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme. Under the Directive, micropollutants must be removed through quaternary wastewater treatment, with the costs financed via EPR by the sectors considered responsible for the pollution caused by the use of their products. The European Commission has identified the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries as the two sectors mainly responsible for the micropollution in wastewater.
There is broad support for the EU’s environmental objectives, but opinions diverge on how these goals should be achieved and on the practical implementation of the Directive. Fair burden-sharing remains a central concern...
- Title
- Media Partnership - Enabling Framework for Grid Investments
- Runtime
- 1:37:24
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Europe’s electricity consumption is projected to rise by 2030 with continued renewables development. The Commission’s Grids Package aims to modify planning (including TEN-E revision), streamline permitting, and provide practical grid connection guidance, with a strong emphasis on digitalisation, flexibility, and storage/hybrid projects—areas critical to unlocking investments and integrating renewables at pace.
Together with PGE S.A. we invite you to join us for a strategic discussion to unpack the European Commission’s European Grids Package — its legislative proposals and guidance — and to discuss how it can accelerate grid investments, permitting, and connection processes. The event will spotlight investment priorities in distribution and transmission readiness, digitalisation, and flexibility solutions.
https://events.euractiv.com/event/info/media-partnership-enabling-framework-for-grid-investments
For more EU news, visit our webpag...
- Title
- Agrifood Policy Conference
- Runtime
- 3:41:59
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- 09:30 - 09:45
PLENARY: Europe’s agrifood sector: Balancing competitiveness, sustainability and trust
As Europe navigates new trade agreements, including the Mercosur deal, and addresses ongoing challenges in the food supply chain, questions arise over market access, tariffs, and fair competition for European producers. At the same time, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and consumer trust in European food remains a priority. This plenary will open the Agrifood Policy Conference with an in-depth look at the EU’s agrifood strategy for the years ahead, exploring how policymakers, industry, farmers, and other stakeholders can work together to strengthen competitiveness, safeguard high standards, and promote a sustainable and resilient agrifood sector.
CONFIRMED KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Christophe Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food
09:45 - 10:30
PANEL 1: Beyond Mercosur - Reconnecting EU regulation and trade negotiat...
- Title
- EHPM 50 Years: Highlights from the European Parliament Celebration
- Runtime
- 3:39
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Video provided by EHPM
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
The EHPM 50th Anniversary Event Highlights Video shares the key moments, perspectives and atmosphere of the landmark celebration held on 12 November at the European Parliament. The high-level event convened EU policymakers, national associations, SMEs and stakeholders from across Europe to mark five decades of progress and to reflect on the future direction of the food supplement sector within the European Union.
The celebration opened with a keynote address by Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi, who emphasised the importance of nutrition, innovation and prevention in strengthening public health, including the relevance of the forthcoming EU Cardiovascular Health Plan. Hosted by Pascal Arimont, the event also featured contributions from EHPM leadership and long-standing members who have played a central role in shaping the sector’s development over the past fifty yea...
- Title
- The Revision Of The New Legislative Framework – Opportunity for EU competitiveness?
- Runtime
- 1:26:06
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Adopted in 2008, the New Legislative Framework (NLF) establishes a common set of rules, definitions, and procedures that ensure products placed on the EU market are safe, compliant, and reliable, and that their conformity can be verified and trusted. It provides a coherent framework that supports both consumer protection and innovation and ensures fair competition within the Single Market.
The European Commission is currently working on the revision of the NLF – a timely opportunity to modernise Europe’s regulatory toolbox, simplify procedures, and strengthen the competitiveness of EU industries. The upcoming reform will need to address the realities of an increasingly digital, interconnected, and sustainability-driven economy, while preserving the confidence that underpins the Single Market.
In this context, some stakeholders see an opportunity to make product compliance in Europe simpler, more consistent, and more efficient by enhancing the consistency o...
- Title
- The EU’s electricity grid investment gap - Can the next Connecting Europe Facility deliver?
- Runtime
- 1:20:50
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Financing energy infrastructure is emerging as a central issue in the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework, with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) 2028–2034 set to play a key role. As the EU accelerates the electrification and decarbonisation of its entire economy, the CEF's effectiveness will depend on its ability to support not only cross-border interconnections, but also national and distribution-level electricity grids that underpin system integration, security of supply and economic competitiveness.
Some stakeholders argue that the future CEF will have to be carefully designed to reflect these rising investment needs in national electricity grids as a whole power system. This remains an important aspect to large-scale energy projects by enabling market integration, flexibility, and the reliable operation of interconnected and resilient power systems on every level. Their modernisation and development are therefore essential for the deployment of offshore wind,...
- Title
- Data centres as engines of Europe’s digital future - Can they power a sustainable energy transition?
- Runtime
- 2:32:18
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- As Europe strives to position itself at the forefront of the global digital economy, data centres are emerging as the backbone of competitiveness and innovation, enabling digitalisation, artificial intelligence, cloud services, and the broader digital transition. This presents challenges due to rising energy consumption, which will need the development of large-scale renewable capacity to replace fossil fuels, alongside other substantial investments in grid infrastructure.
As part of these efforts, the European Commission is set to publish early 2026 its Strategic Roadmap for digitalisation and artificial intelligence in the energy sector which will aim at accelerating the deployment of digital tools (including AI technologies) across key decarbonisation sectors, such as power-grid optimisation, energy efficiency, and demand-side flexibility.
Panel 1: Powering the intelligence – How to integrate data centres in the EU energy system
Data centres ...
- Title
- Time Is Now: Why do we keep treating AD differently from other chronic disease?
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Video provided by Lilly
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
Early diagnosis and equitable access to innovative Alzheimer’s treatments remain out of reach for too many people across Europe. As scientific progress accelerates, policymakers need to strengthen diagnostic capacity, streamline pathways, and ensure systems are ready to deliver emerging science.
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- Title
- The critical role of local governments in the climate transition
- Runtime
- 2:17
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Supported by ICLEI Europe
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
Matthew Bach, Regional Director of Strategy and Policy at ICLEI Europe, discusses the critical role of local governments in the climate transition. Speaking also on behalf of the newly appointed Regional Director Shtilyana Koppe, he explains why cities and towns are essential to achieving Europe's sustainability goals.
ICLEI Europe is part of a global network of over 2,500 cities empowering local action across Europe. Local governments implement 70% of EU Green Deal legislation, manage 69% of climate-related public spending and are closest to the citizens they serve.
Real progress happens in our homes, streets, and communities making local leadership essential to Europe's climate ambitions.
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- Title
- AI and the Talent Challenge: Why Europe Needs More Professional Accountants
- Runtime
- 2:06
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Supported by ACCA
Published by Euractiv's Advocacy Lab
Europe’s competitiveness depends on a strong pipeline of professional accountants, yet the demand for skills in areas such as sustainability reporting, green finance, cyber‑crime and AI is growing faster than the supply of qualified professionals. ACCA is launching a Europe‐wide conversation on how to attract, develop and retain the accounting talent our economies urgently need. Learn more about our EU engagement: https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en/professional-insights/public-affairs/europe-public-affairs.html
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- Title
- AI and disinformation – How can Europe safeguard trust in the media?
- Runtime
- 1:17:50
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Artificial intelligence is transforming the way societies interact with information, offering new opportunities for innovation while raising important questions about trust and accountability. In recent years, the EU has taken significant steps to ensure that AI development is human-centric and trustworthy, notably through the AI Act and complementary initiatives to support adoption and compliance.
Building on these foundations, the AI Continent Action Plan and Apply AI Strategy, launched in 2025, aim to make Europe a global leader in AI. These initiatives seek to boost research and industrial capacity, strengthen competitiveness, and ensure that AI technologies uphold fundamental rights and democratic principles. They include measures to support AI adoption across sectors, enhance skills through the AI Skills Academy, and facilitate compliance with the AI Act via dedicated services.
At the same time, large-scale disinformation campaigns remain a major challen...
- Title
- Housing affordability - How can capital markets and real estate deliver Europe’s housing transition?
- Runtime
- 1:18:00
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Europe is facing a housing affordability crisis, as the average house prices increased by up to 60% since 2015, and many households struggle to cover monthly costs. While housing policy remains a national responsibility, the EU recognises that this issue is central to social fairness and economic stability.
Through initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Initiative, which aligns with the New European Bauhaus and the European Pillar of Social Rights, the European Commission aims to support more accessible and sustainable housing. It is also currently preparing a plan for affordable housing to uphold Europe’s housing transition.
Still, some stakeholders encourage further EU actions to support more affordable and greener housing. Residential and commercial buildings together make up nearly 40% of Europe’s overall energy consumption, and improving their efficiency could lower household expenses while advancing the EU’s long-term climate goals. Others also...
- Title
- Europe’s path to a cleaner automotive sector – What are the opportunities and challenges?
- Runtime
- 1:35:51
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The European Commission has published its proposals to revise its Car CO2 Regulation and to introduce national targets for Clean Corporate Vehicles as part of its Automotive Package. These initiatives aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening Europe’s automotive competitiveness. The Package is part of the broader Clean Industrial Deal, announced in February 2025, to accelerate decarbonisation and enhance industrial competitiveness across all sectors.
By allowing combustion engines to still play a role in new vehicles beyond 2035, the Commission says it will provide the flexibility manufactures need to achieve the car CO2 targets. At the same time, by stimulating demand through zero and low-emission corporate fleets, the EU seeks to drive the transition to clean mobility and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
However, e-mobility companies and climate experts have raised concerns that the new CO2 rules could weaken the market signal for zero-e...
- Title
- A conversation about Europe’s competitiveness and health security with Steffen Saltofte, Zentiva
- Runtime
- 15:48
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In this thought leadership interview, Steffen Saltofte, Chief Executive Officer at Zentiva and President of Medicines for Europe, reflects on the progress made since the Draghi report set out a roadmap for Europe to strengthen competitiveness, foster innovation, and build resilience. He shares his perspective on where Europe stands today, highlighting persistent challenges in innovation, sustainability, and health security.
The discussion explores practical steps to modernise outdated frameworks, reduce regulatory fragmentation, and rebuild manufacturing capacity to ensure reliable access to affordable medicines. Saltofte emphasises the need for predictability, harmonisation, collaboration, and accountability to secure Europe’s healthcare future. Watch the full interview for insights into how Europe can maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
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- Title
- A conversation about AI ethics and innovation with Alexei Grinbaum
- Runtime
- 15:42
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- This interview examines how AI ethics transitions from high-level principles to real-world systems used by people every day. Alexei Grinbaum, senior scientist and chair of the Operational Digital Ethics Committee at CEA in France, explains why existing ethical guidelines often fail engineers and designers, and how the EU-funded AIOLIA project aims to close that gap.
The discussion highlights some of the real-world case studies, ranging from AI in healthcare and autonomous systems to virtual companions and the ethical use of deepfakes in trauma therapy. Grinbaum shows how context changes ethical judgments, and why transparency, non-manipulation, and accountability must be translated into concrete technical and organisational measures.
Finally, the interview looks ahead to training the next generation of AI professionals and policymakers. With contributors across Europe, Asia, and North America, the AIOLIA project supports the implementation of the EU AI Act t...
- Title
- Euractiv's 2025 Transport Policy Conference
- Runtime
- 5:18
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Can Europe really transform its transport sector for a greener future? This video captures key moments from the Euractiv Transport Policy Conference, where EU policymakers, industry leaders and transport experts came together in Brussels to discuss how to accelerate the decarbonisation of transport across Europe. The discussions focus on how EU transport policy can support innovation, competitiveness and connectivity while reducing emissions across all modes of transport.
The conference explores practical solutions and policy pathways for cleaner mobility, from road transport and public transit to aviation and maritime shipping. Speakers examine the challenges ahead and the opportunities offered by new technologies, alternative fuels and coordinated EU action, all in the context of Europe’s long-term climate and sustainability goals.
https://events.euractiv.com/event/info/transport-policy-conference
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