Euractiv
A conversation about electric vehicles with Dr. Ir. Peter Tom Jones, KU Leuven
- Title
- A conversation about electric vehicles with Dr. Ir. Peter Tom Jones, KU Leuven
- Runtime
- 14:01
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Is Europe really sleepwalking into an abyss? Will the looming tsunami of Chinese electric vehicles obliterate the European car manufacturing industry? The documentary “Made in Europe” investigates the challenges faced by Europe as it attempts to set up its own, fully integrated, mine-to-EV value chain. Well let's delve deeper with Dr. Ir. Peter Tom Jones Director KU Leuven Institute for Sustainable Metals and Mineral
Find more information below:
Trailer documentary “Made in Europe: from mine to electric vehicle” can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/878563219
Avant-première event in Leuven on Monday November 13, 19h (Aula Vesalius - Cinema ZED, Leuven). Participation is free of charge. Registration is, however, obligatory: https://www.kuleuven.be/communicatie/congresbureau/formulieren/documentary-2013-made-in-europe-from-mine-to-electric-vehicle/view
Avant-première event in Brussels on Thursday November 16, 12.30h (Le Plaza Hote...
- Title
- Building trust: Rotterdam’s approach to citizen participation
- Runtime
- 5:19
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The Dutch city of Rotterdam is teeming with initiatives aimed at ensuring citizens have a say in decisions that affect their life, from community-led projects to citizen participation schemes designed by the municipality. To learn more about the city’s participatory culture and the trust-building process between citizens and local government, Euractiv travelled to Rotterdam and spoke with city representatives, researchers and inhabitants involved in participatory projects.
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- Title
- VDL's Western Balkan tour: Promises and warnings on EU enlargement
- Runtime
- 11:44
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week the Beyond the Byline podcast looks at Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's tour of the Western Balkans.The EU executive chief talked to leaders of Western Balkans countries to encourage their governments to continue their hard work to meet EU membership standards, while warning that many are falling short of the requirements, and Brussels’ newfound appetite for enlargement might not last forever.The six Western Balkan states of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia are all aspiring EU members. Accession for any of them looked a distant prospect until Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine last spring got Brussels talking seriously about enlarging the EU again.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 118
November 3, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/8cd3c3e6
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- EU proposes new pesticide reduction target amid controversy
- Runtime
- 11:22
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The European Commission's plan to reduce pesticide use has faced criticism from European farmers, primarily due to concerns about the availability of alternatives by 2030.In response, a new target is being proposed to make the EU executive accountable for providing farmers with low-risk options and actively contributing to creating a robust market for such products.European Parliament members (MEPs) want to set an ambitious yet achievable target, considering technical and market insights, and request the Commission establish a methodology for calculating it.ember states must set their national goals for increasing the sales of low-risk plant protection products and biological control.We asked Green MEP Jutta Paulus how the Parliament's position has evolved regarding the reduction targets for chemical pesticides and more hazardous plant protection products, and what are the key disagreements between the conservative side of the Parliament and the Greens in the context of the compromise ...
- Title
- EU Regulation on deforestation-free products – What implications for smallholders?
- Runtime
- 1:21:41
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- On 29 June 2023, the EU Regulation on deforestation-free products entered into force. The main driver of the Regulation is the expansion of agricultural land that is linked to the production of commodities like soy, beef, palm oil, wood, cocoa, coffee, rubber and some of their derived products.
Under the Regulation, any operator or trader who places these commodities on the EU market, or exports from it, must be able to prove that the products do not originate from recently deforested land or have contributed to forest degradation.
One of the categories affected by the regulation is that of smallholders, important stakeholders in the production value chain. According to the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), smallholders account for about 41% and 27% of total oil palm planted areas in Indonesia and Malaysia, respectively, and for about 35% - 40% of the global production of palm oil.
As the supply chain of independent smallholders is ...
- Title
- EU vs Tech Giants: Who Rules the Digital World?
- Runtime
- 9:03
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Join us as we delve into the Brussels Effect, a term coined by Professor Anu Bradford, which refers to the European Union's unique ability to regulate and set standards that influence companies and markets worldwide.
The EU's influence is especially evident in its regulation of tech companies and social media, with initiatives like the General Data Protection Regulation and the Digital Service Act.
However the EU faces difficulties in enforcing its rules, and as tech companies become larger and more influential, they may resist EU regulations.
Let's take a closer look into how the EU's regulatory influence, The Brussels Effect, is shaping the global marketplace and the potential consequences of its changing dynamics.
For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://www.euractiv.com/
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- Title
- International Humanitarian Law: Who is eligible for protection?
- Runtime
- 20:59
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week the Beyond the Byline podcast takes a deep dive into the global rules governing warfare - or international humanitarian law, as it’s officially called. The rules, established in the wake of the Second World War, seek to limit the effects of armed conflict, guided by the 1949 Conventions that 196 states are party to.To find out what the ground rules are, who is eligible for protection, and what happens when these rules are violated, we turn to Dr. Knut Dörmann, head of the delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross to the EU, NATO, and Belgium, and Brian Finucane, senior adviser at the International Crisis Group, an independent organisation working to prevent wars and shape policies that will build a more peaceful world.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 116
October 26, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/116efd3b
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- New genomic techniques - What lies ahead?
- Runtime
- 1:19:01
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- New genomic techniques (NGTs) and their products have been rapidly developing in the last 20 years in many parts of the world, with some applications already on the market of some EU trade partners.
On 5 July 2023, the European Commission adopted a proposal for a new Regulation on plants produced by certain new genomic techniques, as part of a package of legislative proposals to support the EU’s Farm to Fork and Biodiversity strategies.
There is significant demand in the EU and globally for NGT plants, because of their potential to contribute to addressing current challenges in the agri-food system, such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
The scientific and NGO communities are divided on this issue. Some welcome the Commission’s new Regulation proposal, believing it could be an important part of the EU’s bioeconomy revolution. Others believe that there are considerable risks, such as, in the agricultural field, the unknown effects on w...
- Title
- Making better use of biofuels: How can the EU ensure policy consistency?
- Runtime
- 1:15:31
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The EU Renewable Energy Directive is an important part of the Fit for 55 package and represents a significant step forward in the climate action agenda. By introducing ambitious legislative proposals and promoting a comprehensive approach to decarbonisation, the EU aims to lead the global fight against climate change and drive the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
In 2022, the European Parliament voted on the revision of the EU Renewable Energy Directive. According to industry stakeholders, this was a strong statement about the continued importance of sustainably produced crop-based biofuels such as renewable ethanol to achieving EU goals for fighting climate change.
Stakeholders from the energy sector are concerned that the sustainability of biofuels and the importance of domestic biofuels production are still being ignored or even undermined. According to them, fears about the effects of EU biofuels production on food security in the context o...
- Title
- EU's divisions on Gaza: Heading towards a change of tone?
- Runtime
- 16:10
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week, Euractiv’s Beyond the Byline podcast takes a look at the division sweeping across the EU amid mixed signals from officials on the Israel-Hamas war.EU leaders held a virtual conference on Tuesday (17 October) to decide their common stance regarding the conflict that has exploded between Israel and Hamas in recent days. The talks came in the wake of criticism that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen overstepped her remit with her unequivocal support for Israel.We asked Ricardo Borges de Castro, Associate Director and Head of Europe in the World Programme at the European Policy Centre, and Georgi Gotev, Euractiv’s Senior Editor, if the tone is changing - and what hope there is for a diplomatic solution to the war.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 115
October 19, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/eacf33cc
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- How carbon farming aims to boost removals and revenues
- Runtime
- 4:01
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Europe wants to boost the amount of carbon held in its nature,
but farmers and foresters also need to make money from processes that help land capture more carbon.
Carbon farming is seen as a way to bridge this gap, financially
compensating farmers and foresters for sustainable practices.
Farming organisations describe it as including practices
that sequester carbon, prevent carbon leakage and reduce emissions from
agricultural practices.
However, environmental organisations want a strict
definition that is limited to removals and includes biodiversity benefits.
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- Title
- Polish Elections: EU and pro-democracy path at stake
- Runtime
- 22:01
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- With Polish citizens due to head to the polls to vote in the country's national elections on Sunday (15 October), this week Euractiv’s Beyond the Byline podcast is exploring what is at stake in the vote.The incumbent Law and Justice party (PiS), in power since 2015, has introduced divisive reforms including massive restrictions on women's reproductive rights and a more autonomous stance towards EU policy.Ongoing scandals, like the visa controversy, could affect the elections, with concerns over media bias and censorship complicating the electoral atmosphere. The outcome could lead to a coalition government or political instability, shaping Poland's uncertain political future.We spoke with Aleks Szczerbiak, a politics professor and Polish specialist at the University of Sussex, and Sonia Horonziak, political scientist and coordinator of the Democracy and Civil Society Programme.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 114
October 12, 2023
★ Episode details: h...
- Title
- Transforming Hematology Care - Empowering Better Cancer Treatment in "Europe's Beating Cancer Plan"
- Runtime
- 1:30:31
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Cancer concerns us all in various ways, and patients with haematological malignancies, which are cancers that originate in the blood-forming tissue, face specific challenges. According to the European Commission, in 2020 alone, 2.7 million individuals in the European Union received a cancer diagnosis, and 1.3 million lives were lost to the disease. For patients with haematological malignancies, expert treatment is crucial due to the unique nature of their diagnosis.
In 2021, recognising the need for comprehensive cancer care, the European Union introduced the Europe's Beating Cancer Plan, aiming to address the entire cancer pathway. This plan aims to tackle the challenges faced by patients with haematological malignancies, among others, through its four primary areas of action: prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, and improving the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors.
To address the specific needs of patients with haematological ...
- Title
- PAC et PSN français: où en sommes-nous ?
- Runtime
- 1:16:33
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Le Plan Stratégique National français (PSN) de la nouvelle Politique Agricole Commune (PAC) est entré en vigueur en janvier 2023. Il convient de faire le point sur la situation en France et en Europe.
Dans un contexte de dégradation environnementale alarmant, la PAC et les législations européennes en cours de négociation ont pour but d’atteindre les objectifs du Pacte vert pour l’Europe. Mais avec la guerre en Ukraine, l’augmentation des coûts de production et les évènements climatiques extrêmes, un grand nombre d’États membres, dont la France, se sont vus octroyer des dérogations sur les mesures environnementales, et comptent bien les renouveler en 2024.
Plus largement, la PAC est au cœur de cette articulation entre compétitivité, souveraineté alimentaire et respect des objectifs environnementaux. De même, tandis que la France a dévoilé son Pacte-loi d’orientation et d’avenir agricoles (PLOAA) pour renouveler les générations ...
- Title
- Nagorno-Karabakh: What is happening and what is the EU’s outlook?
- Runtime
- 16:59
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week, Euractiv’s Beyond the Byline podcast takes a deep dive into the evolving crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh. Thousands of ethnic Armenians living in the territory have been displaced following Azerbaijan's recent offensive to regain control of the contested enclave - dramatically reshaping the conflict landscape.The dissolution of Nagorno-Karabakh's government marks the culmination of over three decades of separatist rule, with far-reaching geopolitical implications in the South Caucasus. What is the EU's involvement in the region, and what is the future outlook?Join us as we unravel together with Dr. Anna Ohanyan Professor of Political Science and International Relations at Stonehill College the complex history and intricate power dynamics that have brought us to this pivotal moment.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 113
October 5, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c65e17c
★ Additional episodes: https://www.eura...
- Title
- The 2023 Dutch Elections Explained
- Runtime
- 8:27
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The Netherlands, known for its unpredictable electorate, is undergoing a transformation with the resignation of long-serving Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
Discover the economic powerhouse that is the Netherlands, its upcoming elections, and the parties in contention. Learn about Mark Rutte's legacy and the emergence of the New Social Contract, the Agrarian movement (BBB), and the alliance between the Labour and Green parties.
Explore the role of smaller parties and potential election scenarios, including coalitions that could shape the country's future on issues like the economy, immigration, and climate.
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- Title
- EU's sex work report: Key omissions
- Runtime
- 15:57
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week, Euractiv’s Beyond the Byline podcast looks into the hotly contested report on the regulation of sex work.EU lawmakers adopted a report advocating the decriminalisation of people engaged in sex work, while suggesting the 'punishment' but not criminalisation of those who use their services.The report, although lacking direct legislative impact, sparked controversy as it initially proposed the Nordic model, criminalising sex buyers, but later opted for a milder stance.It also called for support and exit programmes for sex workers, highlighting a division among MEPs on the issue of whether buyers should be criminalised and if prostitution should be viewed as gender-based violence or a profession.We talked with the rapporteur of the report, MEP Maria Noichl, and Euractiv’s journalist Silvia Ellena to better understand what the report is about.We also talked with MEP Karen Melchior and Sabrina Sanchez, director of the European Sex Workers Alliance, to find out what was not con...
- Title
- How can district heating help meet EU climate neutrality targets?
- Runtime
- 1:21:46
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- District heating networks – hot water pipes running below the ground – supply millions of homes in cities across Europe, representing about 10% of the EU’s heat market. Recent global events, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, have put the spotlight on the importance of the security of heat supply for those networks, and the importance of investments needed in the sector in order to meet EU climate goals.
While the broader process of transformation of the large-scale district heating sector has accelerated in recent years, there are still questions on the trajectory of these changes. For example, from the industry’s perspective, any provision that conditions the applicability of a particular technology or fuel has a huge impact on the overall investment processes carried out within individual district heating systems.
According to a report conducted by the Polish Association of Professional Combined Heat and Power Plants (PTEZ), the next challenge for ...
- Title
- The EU's directive on corporate sustainability due diligence
- Runtime
- 1:20:08
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In 2022, the European Commission put forward a proposal for a directive on corporate sustainability due diligence, aimed at creating more responsible corporate behaviour throughout global value chains. The Commission argues that these new rules will bring certainty and a level playing field for the business sector, while there will be more transparency for consumers and investors.
The proposed directive aims to establish a mandatory due diligence framework for EU-based companies and their supply chains to identify, prevent, and mitigate adverse human rights, environmental impacts. The directive is expected to cover a wide range of issues. However, there are ongoing discussions about what should be covered in the directive, the size requirements of the companies that should be included, and the impact it can have on SMEs.
With trilogue negotiations set to begin in the coming months, some stakeholders argue that companies need more clarity regarding the standard...
- Title
- What role will storage play in Europe's future energy system?
- Runtime
- 1:23:31
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In March 2023, the European Commission put forward its Recommendation on Energy Storage, underpinning a decarbonised and secure EU energy system. As Europe strives to integrate weather dependent energy sources, the role of energy storage solutions becomes important in maintaining grid stability and meeting energy demand efficiently.
Energy storage is a crucial component of Europe's transition to a sustainable energy future. It allows us to capture excess energy from intermittent renewable sources and store it for use when demand is high or renewable generation is low. By providing a reliable and stable power supply, energy storage enhances grid resilience, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and helps mitigate climate change.
Advancements in battery technologies, pumped hydro storage, and other innovative solutions are driving efficiency gains and cost reductions, making energy storage increasingly accessible and impactful. With the continued development and dep...
- Title
- The 2023 Polish Elections Explained
- Runtime
- 10:50
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Delve into the high-stakes world of Polish politics as we analyze the pivotal 2023 elections. Poland's two main parties, the right-wing Law and Justice and the center-right Civic Platform, are locked in a historic battle.
This election will determine Poland's stance on crucial issues, including the economy, state intervention, EU relations, and abortion among other things.
Join us as we explore the main coalitions, shifting public sentiment, and potential outcomes, all while considering the implications for Poland's future in the EU.
Don't miss this in-depth analysis of one of the EU's largest and most influential members on EURACTIV.com.
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- Title
- Scottish citizens’ take on participatory budgeting
- Runtime
- 2:53
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Scotland is currently experimenting with a participatory budgeting system at the local level, a democratic tool which allows citizens to propose and vote on initiatives to be financed through local resources. But are citizens aware of this process and would they participate in it, given the opportunity? Euractiv travelled to Edinburgh to learn more.
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- Title
- EU farmers seek dialogue for sustainable food production amid challenges
- Runtime
- 16:00
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week in a special episode for EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast we explore the challenges and resilience of European farmers within the context of food chains and sustainable food production.We delve into the recent State of the Union address by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, where she expressed gratitude to farmers and emphasised the shift towards sustainable agriculture.Discover how farmers and cooperatives are facing issues like generational renewal and administrative burdens while advocating for coordinated policies and funds to support sustainable farming.We asked Peeter Meedendorp, President of CEJA Young Farmers and Karl Bauer, Chairman of Copa Cogeca's Working Party on Rural Development, how farmers can maintain the balance between food security and nature protection, the importance of dialogue, and the evolving agricultural landscape in the EU.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 111
September 21, 2023
★ Episode deta...
- Title
- Navigating the Energy Transition - Implementing clean hydrogen initiatives in the EU
- Runtime
- 1:31:15
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Hydrogen will play a key role in Europe’s transition to a sustainable and decarbonised future. It has great potential to provide flexibility and achieve energy system integration whilst supporting the decarbonisation of energy, industry and mobility. The EU Hydrogen Strategy, complemented by the REPowerEU plan, sets goals to import and produce millions of tons of hydrogen by 2030. These initiatives aim to drive the adoption of clean hydrogen solutions in energy-intensive industries and hard-to-decarbonise sectors. At the same time, the legislative process for the Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Market Package will determine the regulatory framework in which the hydrogen value chain will develop.
To ensure a smooth and successful transition, from conceptual ideas to the practical implementation of decarbonisation with hydrogen technologies, it is important to clarify the rules for the hydrogen value chain and to define relevant support schemes for the nascent market.
...
- Title
- Gigabit Infrastructure Act: A global leadership opportunity for the EU?
- Runtime
- 1:33:17
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In 2023, the European Commission proposed initiatives like the Gigabit Infrastructure Act, Public Consultation on Future Networks and Business Models for Electronic Communications, and the Call for Evidence on Virtual Worlds. These initiatives aim to improve connectivity policy frameworks and enhance services in Europe.
The European Commission's 2030 Digital Decade Targets aim to ensure that every EU household has access to a fixed gigabit network, and that 5G coverage extends to all populated areas by 2030. Achieving these goals requires the rapid deployment of high-capacity networks (VHCN). According to the European Parliament, a high-quality digital infrastructure based on such high-capacity networks would underpin almost all sectors of a modern and innovative economy.
The Gigabit Infrastructure Act aims at facilitating and stimulating the provision of VHCN. It promotes the joint use of existing infrastructure and enables more efficient deployment of new in...
- Title
- The Belt and Road Initiative - Where are we 10 years on?
- Runtime
- 1:24:41
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a massive global infrastructure and development project initiated by the Chinese government. Over the past decade, the BRI has reshaped the global economic and geopolitical landscape, fostering connectivity, trade, and cooperation among nations.
Connectivity and infrastructure development has been enhanced across continents. The initiative has seen the construction of a vast network of roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure projects that have significantly improved transportation and trade links between China and participating countries. These developments have facilitated the flow of goods, capital, and ideas, stimulating economic growth in various regions. Knowledge-sharing, cultural exchanges, mutual understanding, and diplomatic ties among nations have also been strengthened.
The 10th anniversary of the BRI also provides an opportunity to reflect on its future prospec...
- Title
- Von der Leyen's SOTEU: Key takeaways and reactions
- Runtime
- 28:01
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week, EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast brings you a breakdown of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's annual State of the European Union (SOTEU) speech on Wednesday (13 September). In her final SOTEU address under the current mandate, von der Leyen used the speech to lay out her achievements - and hopes for the future - for European citizens across areas such as the economy, climate change, and migration.As rumours swirl as to whether she intends to throw her hat into the ring for a second mandate as Commission president, von der Leyen has remained staunchly silent. However, some saw elements of her speech as subtly laying the groundwork for a bid for another term.The speech did not introduce any significant new policy initiatives, with the EU's climate package, the Green Deal, alongside the economy and migration taking up most of the space.To break down von der Leyen's speech we spoke with Frédéric Simon (Euractiv’s Energy and environment editor), Jáno...
- Title
- Is the EU a step closer to legalizing cannabis?
- Runtime
- 8:19
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Cannabis, the most consumed illicit drug in the EU, is sparking a heated debate across Europe. Join us as we dive into the recent groundbreaking German proposal to regulate recreational cannabis use.
Explore how different EU countries view cannabis and compare it to global approaches. Germany's move towards regulation is a game-changer, challenging the status quo. Learn why this cautious approach may differ from Canada and some US states where cannabis sales are flourishing.
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- Title
- EU enlargement: Time for decisions?
- Runtime
- 9:45
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week, EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast looks into the EU’s enlargement strategy.With Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine bringing the topic of EU enlargement back into sharp focus, the next political season could be crunch time for decisions that will shape the Union of the future.EU Enlargement Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi stated that enlargement by 2030 is possible, but depends on efforts from both candidate countries and the EU. The European Commission plans to make significant proposals in October, including a Growth Plan to increase investment in the Western Balkans. But what is the plan, and what are the key dates to look out for regarding decision-making?
Beyond the Byline
Episode 109
September 7, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/70808782
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- Will you soon see cancer warnings on alcohol in the EU?
- Runtime
- 3:28
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- There was much talk about cancer warnings similar to the ones used for cigarettes on alcohol products sold in the EU after a recent law proposed by the Irish government.
EURACTIV takes a closer look at what is happening in this video explainer.
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- Title
- What can we learn from this summer of wildfires?
- Runtime
- 26:38
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast is back and this week, we're looking at the wildfires that have devastated regions across southern Europe.The continent was once again battling scorching temperatures this summer, with wildfires blazing across Europe from Portugal to Greece. The latter is still battling with the largest wildfire in the EU since 2000.The damage to the ecosystem and the natural resources on the entire continent has been devastating, with the fire destroying everything in its path.In northern Greece, which was the worst hit by wildfires this summer, the fire has burned more than 810 square kilometres of land – an area bigger than New York City.This week we ask Christiana Photiadou (expert on climate change vulnerability and adaptation at the European Environment Agency), Zita Sebasvari (environmental scientist focusing on disaster risk reduction) and Lindon Pronto (senior fire management expert at the European Forest Institute and ex firefighter): What is driving t...
- Title
- A conversation about packaging and recycling with Kristiina Veitola, ACE
- Runtime
- 22:29
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The European Commission wants ALL packaging recyclable by 2030. A reduction in waste is also targeted, along with increased reuse and refill.
But is the food and beverage industry on course to do its part to meet those European targets?
Well let's delve deeper with Kristiina Veitola President of ACE – the Alliance for Beverage, Cartons and the Environment.
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- Title
- Summer strikes disrupt Europe's travel
- Runtime
- 10:47
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In the last episode before the summer break, EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast looks into the summer strikes across the continent. As Europe enters the summer season, a wave of transport strikes is causing significant disruptions to travel across the continent. Employees from various sectors, including air traffic controllers, security staff, cabin crews, and train personnel, are taking a stand demanding fair treatment, higher wages, and improved working conditions. These strikes have impacted airports, rail services, and other modes of transport in countries like France, England, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, and Portugal. With no end in sight for some of these industrial actions, travellers should brace themselves for potential delays and cancellations while unions continue to protest for their rights.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 107
July 27, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/a66d360e
★ Additio...
- Title
- What is the EU budget's mid-term review?
- Runtime
- 5:10
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Stretched to its limit by the impact of Russia's war against Ukraine, rising borrowing costs, and high inflation, the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework (MFF), the EU long-term budget, has no room for maneuver left.
To make sure it remains fit for purpose until 2027, the European Commission proposed a review of the budget.
In this video, we look at the Commission's proposal for the revision of the budget and the next steps in the negotiations of the review.
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- Title
- Tackling disinformation in Europe: AI4TRUST
- Runtime
- 3:18
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- AI4TRUST is a highly collaborative initiative funded by the Horizon Europe Programme and involving consortium partners from 11 countries.
Participants will combine state-of-the-art AI capabilities to enhance human-centered solutions in ways best suited to prevent, detect and respond to disinformation in Europe.
This innovative approach will allow massive data streams to be filtered and processed in ways that help media professionals, and researchers respond to misinformation and disinformation.
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- Title
- Politicising the nature restoration law
- Runtime
- 13:28
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week on EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast looks into the hotly contested nature restoration law, recently passed by a narrow margin within the EU.Aligned with President Ursula von der Leyen's ambitious European Green Deal, this legislation aims to protect nature by implementing recovery measures on 20% of the EU's land and sea by 2030, with a long-term vision of covering all degraded ecosystems by 2050. However, the road to adoption was far from smooth, as lawmakers in Strasbourg had to navigate heated debates and opposition campaigns, resulting in a revised proposal. How is the nature restoration law being politicised in the European parliament and what lies ahead?
Beyond the Byline
Episode 106
July 20, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/c82b16bf
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- Thessaloniki: A place for bottom-up democracy?
- Runtime
- 5:14
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- The citizens of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, are increasingly feeling the need to take part in decisions affecting their life and their city.
What role could citizen-led processes, such as participatory budgeting, play in bringing the inhabitants closer to local politics?
To learn more about the potential for participatory democracy in the city, EURACTIV travelled to Thessaloniki and talked with local politicians, experts and activists.
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- Title
- Dutch government collapses over migration law: What's next?
- Runtime
- 15:32
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In this week’s episode of EURACTIV’s Beyond the Byline podcast, we look at how a contentious migration law collapsed the Dutch government, marking the end of 13 years of leadership for the country's prime minister, Mark Rutte.The government's months-long negotiations to curb the influx of new migrants into the Netherlands were marred by political infighting, with limits on family reunification and the establishment of a two-tier asylum system proving particularly divisive.The events also speak to the significance of migration as a touchstone issue in EU politics, which is expected to be a hot topic in the upcoming European elections of 2024.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 105
July 13, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/53632f2a
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/podcast/
- Title
- NATO’s Vilnius Plan
- Runtime
- 4:42
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- NATO is the largest Western military alliance, it gathers 31 countries, from the US, Canada, and around Europe, all the way to Turkey.
Next week, for two days, Lithuania will become the host of the NATO summit and leaders will gather to have important discussions on three main issues, that will shape the way the alliance defends itself: the relationship between NATO and Ukraine, the issue of defence investment and the plans on how to defend the alliance’s territory.
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- Title
- Defibrillators in public spaces: a role model for emergency medicines availability
- Runtime
- 1:14
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- For more EU news, visit our webpage: https://www.euractiv.com/
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- Title
- What are the causes of police violence in France?
- Runtime
- 16:07
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In this week's episode of EURACTIV's Beyond the Byline podcast, we delve into the pressing issue of police violence in France.The country has been engulfed in clashes following the fatal police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk.Racial profiling and police brutality are concerns in France and in some other European countries, according to the European Network Against Racism.The situation in France has further escalated with clashes between protesters and far-right supporters, while fundraisers for both Nahel's family and the police officer involved have gained significant attention.Amid this complex situation, journalists and photographers face violence from both the police and protesters, prompting Reporters Without Borders to establish a hotline and propose on-site training for journalists covering the clashes.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 104
July 6, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/01e209e4
★ Additional epi...
- Title
- How can a shift to a circular economy in the EU contribute to a climate-neutral Europe?
- Runtime
- 1:20:51
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Shifting to a circular economy model is perceived as crucial for the European Union to achieve its goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050. A circular economy model implements material efficiency strategies throughout the value chain, from product design and use, longevity and durability, to mechanisms that enable proper separation of materials at the end-of-life phase, allowing for their recirculation.
This sustainable model not only reduces environmental pressures and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also stimulates economic growth, fosters innovation and competitiveness, boosts employment, reduces material costs and consumer expenses, and reduces dependencies on imports. Failing to adopt circular practices could not only jeopardise the EU's position as a frontrunner in the global climate fight, but also harm the competitiveness of European industries.
Despite efforts made as part of the 2020 ‘Circular economy action plan’, EU-level policy governing E...
- Title
- What is the role of the Essential Use Concept under REACH authorisation and restriction?
- Runtime
- 1:20:16
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In October 2020, the European Commission adopted its Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS). The CSS is part of the EU’s zero pollution ambition – a key commitment of the European Green Deal. The EU’s chemicals strategy aims to better protect citizens and the environment, and boost innovation for safe and sustainable chemicals.
The significance of this strategy is underscored by the fact that 84% of Europeans are worried about the impact of chemicals present in everyday products on their health, and 90% are worried about their impact on the environment. Compounding these concerns, global chemical production is expected to double by 2030, increasing the already widespread usage of chemicals, including in consumer products.
To work towards the objectives of the EU's chemicals strategy, a reform of REACH was also announced. With respect to risk management, the Commission proposed to ban the most harmful chemicals - namely chemical substances meeting sp...
- Title
- Beyond elections: How citizens can influence political decisions
- Runtime
- 2:56
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- While most European citizens are aware of their right to elect their representatives from the local to the EU level, not all know about the participatory and deliberative initiatives which give citizens a say in decisions affecting them across the Union.
EURACTIV takes a look at a few of the participatory and deliberative tools that exist at municipal, national and European level, explaining how they work and how they can complement representative democracy.
It has already been checked by an editor, so it's good to go!
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- Title
- Crisis in Russia: What now?
- Runtime
- 17:59
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- This week on Beyond the Byline, EURACTIV looks at the recent events that unfolded in Russia, presenting a major domestic incident for President Vladimir Putin.The crisis ensued when Yevgeny Prigozhin, founder of the Wagner Group, a Russian state-funded paramilitary organisation, turned on the country's Ministry of Defence in what some are calling a coup attempt. While the exact details of the standoff are unclear, they indicate a significant escalation of tensions.How did we get here, and what does the clash mean for Putin's future, Ukraine and the EU? What could a post-Putin Russia look like?To get some answers, we speak to Zachary Paikin, researcher of EU foreign policy at the Centre for European Policy Studies, and Hans Kribbe, director of the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics.
Beyond the Byline
Episode 103
June 29, 2023
★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/91a3f22d
★ Additional episodes: https://www.euractiv.com/po...
- Title
- Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation - How can we make it work?
- Runtime
- 1:22:36
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- In November 2022, the European Commission proposed to revise the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD), with the idea of reducing the negative environmental impacts of packaging and packaging waste, while improving the functioning of the internal market.
This revision aims to prevent the generation of packaging waste, reduce its quantity, and promote reuse and refill. It also aims to ensure that all packaging on the EU market will be recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030, while increasing the use of recycled plastics in packaging.
It additionally proposes some key measures to bring about change. One of these measures focuses on proposing targets for packaging waste reduction at the Member State level, and mandatory reuse targets for economic operators for selected packaging groups.
According to some stakeholders, there are certain aspects of the proposed revision that require further elaboration to ensure effective implementati...
- Title
- What are the challenges and opportunities for a European 'hydrogen corridor'?
- Runtime
- 1:28:16
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- With the aim to become carbon neutral by 2050, the European Commission estimates that gaseous fuels such as hydrogen will make up a fifth of final energy consumption in the EU. By 2030, hydrogen is expected to become widely used in Europe and a hydrogen market will emerge.
Hydrogen is a strategic sector for the decarbonisation and strengthening of Europe’s energy resilience and autonomy. As such, new infrastructure for its transmission and consumption throughout the EU is being planned and developed. However, building infrastructure requires a supportive framework allowing for forward planning and tailored financing mechanisms.
One major project that is being rolled out is H2Med, officially announced by France, Spain and Portugal in December 2022 with the support of the European Commission. In January 2023, Germany announced its willingness to join the project too. Relying on existing infrastructure and new pipelines, H2Med will provide a hydrogen corridor s...
- Title
- Greek inhabitants want more green spaces, better transport, inclusion
- Runtime
- 4:21
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- Participatory budgeting - the democratic tool allowing citizens to decide how to spend a part of the municipal budget - has not yet been implemented in Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. Yet, its inhabitants would be open to taking part in such an experiment and propose initiatives to improve their city.
To better understand what inhabitants would like for their city, EURACTIV travelled to Thessaloniki and asked citizens which projects they would like to finance if they were given a say on municipal spending.
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- Title
- CAP reform - Is 'social conditionality' the answer for agri-workers?
- Runtime
- 1:16:00
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
- European agriculture employs over 10 million people, with a significant proportion (as many as 61.2%) engaged in 'informal employment'. These workers often face poor wages, long working hours, undeclared work, and sub-standard housing, amongst other hardships. Accusations of exploitation, and even modern slavery, have been made in some countries.
In June 2021, the EU institutions took a crucial first step towards addressing this by introducing 'social conditionality' into the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform.
The new measure of social conditionality requires farmers to comply with minimum social and labour standards in order to receive CAP subsidies. National authorities can decide to reduce – or withdraw in the most severe cases – the CAP subsidies where a farmer does not respect one or several requirements under this EU legislation.
The introduction of this measure is currently voluntary, but will become mandatory in all EU countries ...
- Title
- Finding a new #nato Secretary-General
- Runtime
- 0:50
- Date posted
- 3 years ago
- Description
