The last ENVE Commission meeting before the summer break took place on July 15th and brought to attention the adoption of two opinions, one on the energy package on gas, hydrogen and methane emissions, and one on the structural inclusion of cities and regions in UNFCCC COP27.
More than that, the agenda included a debate on the priorities of the Czech Presidency of the Council of the EU, as well as an exchange of views on the EU strategy for sustainable and circular textiles.
Our Flemish member, Mr. Andries Gryffroy actively participated in these debates highlighting the importance of swift action to tackle the energy crisis and achieve energy security in Europe and the crucial role of renewable energy projects.
He expressed the group's positive position towards the goals of the Czech Presidency and called on the council to take on board the recommendation of the CoR on the revision of the renewable energy directive, notably removing obstacles to setting up renewable energy communities and ensuring more cross-border cooperation projects involving regions and municipalities.
More than that, as COP27 approaches he called for greater involvement and participation of cities and regions to achieve the climate objectives and to take more account of the efforts of the subnational level of government on climate adaptation.