Think2030 Conference: Ensuring a Resilient Future for the European Green Deal

On March 27th, Brussels hosted the Think2030 Conference, a pivotal event centred on “Ensuring a Resilient Future for the European Green Deal.” The conference gathered a diverse group of participants, including representatives from European High-Level institutions, researchers, civil society stakeholders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and NGOs. The MAIA project was notably represented by Maria José Sanz, the Scientific Director at BC3 and lead partner of MAIA.

Overview

The conference commenced with Antoine Oger, Research Director from the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), unveiling the findings of the 4th edition of the European Green Deal Barometer. Key insights indicated that nearly half of the experts on Just Transition perceive the progress as insufficient. Enhancing financial support for farmers to facilitate a sustainable transition emerged as a crucial measure for fostering a more environmentally and climate-friendly EU agriculture policy. Furthermore, over two-thirds of the experts anticipate that the revised EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the new Net-Zero Industry Act will significantly accelerate the decarbonization of the EU industry in the forthcoming years.

High-Level Panel: Resilience of the European Green Deal’s Objectives

The High-Level Panel focused on “How can we ensure the resilience of the European Green Deal’s objectives towards the 2024 elections and beyond?” Panelists emphasized the EU Green Deal as the primary political agenda and legislative framework acknowledging the systemic dimension of the current crisis. They called for reinforcing a systemic approach with improved governance models, tools, and broader engagement of sectors and individuals. Additionally, the session underscored the social dimension of the Green Deal, advocating for a renewed focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within European policies and the establishment of new indicators for prosperity beyond the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Policy Sessions: Detailed Discussions and Insights

Reaching Climate Neutrality in Agri-Food

In the session “Reaching Climate Neutrality in Agri-Food – Identifying the Right Policy Mix,” it was noted that the agrifood sector represents a significant gap in policies concerning the journey towards net-zero emissions. Carbon pricing mechanisms were discussed, highlighting the necessity for policy instruments to prioritize emission reduction, as carbon removal potential is difficult to measure. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) should pay for ecosystem services delivered, and clear targets are essential to drive transformative changes and provide investment security.

Just Transition: Aligning Climate and Environmental Action with Social Equity and Well-being

The “Just Transition” session emphasized addressing root social and economic causes rather than symptoms. It stressed the importance of affordability and access to Green Solutions for all, necessitating a mindset shift towards positive communication of the Just Transition’s benefits.

Making Adaptation and Resilience a Priority in Nature Restoration Plans

This session highlighted the indispensability of nature restoration for achieving climate resilience. It emphasized the need for intersectoral cooperation and addressing financial gaps to ensure the success of nature restoration plans.

Towards an EU Resource Management Law

The final policy session underscored the need for systemic change to address the planetary crisis, including ambitious legislation and private sector involvement from both large companies and SMEs.

Conclusive Panel: Recommendations and Future Directions

The Conclusive Panel recognized the progress in Green Deal legislation but emphasized that member states need better support for implementation. María José Sanz from BC3 highlighted the complexity of the Green Deal, stressing that tailored communication for different audiences is essential. The Green Deal aims to preserve well-being, encompassing both societal welfare and ecosystem sustainability. Interoperable data use and leveraging different levels of governance can be either barriers or opportunities. Swift responses are needed to match the pace of change, and clearer governance is necessary for the private sector to align with Green Deal objectives.

The panel concluded that the Green Deal Framework is a game-changer and essential to preserve as a pillar of transition policy in Europe. For the European Green Deal to be resilient, it must be well communicated, rooted in science and the urgency of the challenges faced, and inclusive, participative, and cross-sectoral.

The Think2030 Conference was a crucial platform for discussions and insights that will drive the future of the European Green Deal, ensuring it remains a robust and dynamic framework for environmental and social sustainability in Europe.