BRUSSELS – In response to rapid developments in the coatings market, the European Commission has presented an updated set ofEU Ecolabel criteria for paints and varnishes.These criteria bring one of the programme’s key product groups up to date with the latest technological advances and market trends, including revised requirements for the most environmentally friendly paints […]
Council agrees its position on the legal framework to provide €90 billion in financial assistance to Ukraine
The Council today agreed its position on the legal framework for implementing the European Council’s agreement to grant Ukraine a loan of €90 billion for the years 2026-2027. The Council now aims to reach an agreement with the European Parliament quickly so that the first payment can be disbursed at the beginning of the second […]
EU forest management continues to focus on the most profitable services
Despite public opinion and EU policies promoting forest management for multiple ecosystem services, income from sources other than timber production remains limited. This imbalance could persist without specific interventions. Forests provide a variety of ecosystem services, generally divided into three categories: Provisioning: providing natural resources such as wood (e.g. for timber or fuel), food (e.g. […]
Public consultation launched on the European Social Security Pass (ESSPASS)
The European Commission has launched apublic consultationto prepare a proposal fora European Social Security Pass (ESSPASS), part of the Fair Labour Mobility Package to be adopted in autumn 2026. ESSPASS aims to make it easier for people who move or work in different EU countries to exercise their social security rights. It introduces a digital […]
EU reaffirms commitment to science-based multilateralism on chemicals, waste and pollution
The panel will provide authoritative and policy-relevant scientific assessments on chemicals, waste and pollution. Countries will meet in Geneva from 2 to 6 February for the first plenary session of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP), marking a key step in the launch of a new independent scientific body. The EU […]
EU allocates €63 million in response to the crisis in Myanmar and its impact on neighbouring countries
The European Commission has allocated €63 million in humanitarian aid to help populations affected by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, as well as to support Rohingya refugees living in neighbouring countries, particularly Bangladesh. This funding, announced as the conflict triggered by the military coup in Myanmar enters its fifth year, is part of the EU’s […]
Improving Europe’s responsiveness: preparing the European Critical Communication System
From terrorist attacks, border incidents and large-scale accidents to floods and fires: responding to cross-border emergencies requires agile and fluid teamwork and reliable communication. The European Union Critical Communications System (EUCCS) is a key initiative for achieving a safer and better-connected Europe in emergency situations. It will integrate the communication systems used by emergency services […]
37 Europe Direct centres bring the European Union closer to citizens in Spain from 1 January 2026
A new generation of Europe Direct centres is available to all citizens. On 29 and 30 January, Europe Direct centres and European Documentation Centres met to address the challenges of communicating European issues to citizens in our country. Madrid, 2 February 2026.- The new generation of EUROPE DIRECT centres is now up and running. A […]
EU Green Week 2026: Investing in a nature-positive economy
Make a note in your diary for Europe’s most important environmental event, which will take place in Brussels on3 and 4 June. This year’s Green Week will focus on the commercial benefits of nature, demonstrating that a nature-positive economy is essential for Europe’s prosperity, resilience and competitiveness. Organised by DG Environment, the conference will explore […]