Dear Reader,
Welcome to Publyon’s monthly Sustainability Newsletter! As Brussels is going back to business, in this edition, we turn our focus to the stakeholders who will shape the future of Europe. As the EU stands at a crossroads, the decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal—not just for sustainability, but for the broader direction of the Union. From the appointment of new Commissioners to the release of influential reports, these key players are set to define the path Europe will take in achieving its sustainability goals and beyond.
Join us as we explore who these decision-makers are, the power they wield, and the critical choices they will soon make.
The spotlight
Brussels’ power shift – new leaders, new green goals
As Brussels prepares for a pivotal month, the future of European sustainability policy is taking shape behind closed doors. With President von der Leyen back in town, key decisions are on the horizon. As she interviews candidate-Commissioners-and finalises portfolios, her focus isn’t just on policy—it’s on the makeup of the leadership itself.
However, concerns about gender balance among candidates could delay announcements, potentially impacting the rollout of several crucial policies. Von der Leyen faces tough choices: will she push for more female representation or rely on the European Parliament to challenge the status quo? Voices around town are saying that von der Leyen is unlikely to repeat the current structure with Vice Presidents. With the Greens now formally part of the coalition, the balance of power is shifting, making it difficult to ensure representation for each party. Instead, the expectation is that she will appoint more powerful Vice Presidents further centralising influence.
In the meantime, Brussels continues to hold its breath for the long-awaited report from former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi on the future of EU competitiveness. Initially scheduled to be published before the summer break, the document with Draghi’s analysis and recommendations should become publicly available today. In the meantime, Draghi already gave a preview of the report to both EU ambassadors and the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents on 5 September. This is what we know so far:
- The report will focus on the following main angles: productivity; reduction of dependencies; climate; social inclusion; sector-specific prescriptions for the 10 major sectors of the economy.
- Draghi pinpoints several energy related issues that need to be addressed by EU member states, including underdeveloped grids and problems with the EU’s internal energy market which are “leading to lower investment in Europe.” It is expected that the report will provide concrete proposals on financing the green transition.
Policy update
Commissioners that matter: key figures shaping Europe’s green future
Ready to meet the key players who will shape Europe’s climate future?
See below the latest nominations of European Commissioners who will take the reins on critical climate affairs. These nominees will be at the forefront of crafting policies and driving the initiatives that could define the EU’s climate trajectory.
- Bulgaria: One of the two candidates currently tapped on the shoulder for the roles of commissioner for Bulgaria is Julian Popov who previously served as Minister of Environment and Waters from mid-2023 to early-2024. Popov has written extensively on issues concerning energy policy and has co-authored books on the subject and looks to be an important actor in shaping and influencing European Energy policy in the coming years.
- Cyprus: President Nikos Christodoulides has nominated Costas Kadis, an expert in biodiversity and sustainable development. Kadis, formerly Cyprus’s Minister of Agriculture and Environment, is now leading initiatives in natural resource management and sustainability.
- Denmark: Minister for Development and Global Climate Policy Dan Jørgensen is Denmark’s candidate. With his extensive background in climate and energy, Jørgensen aims to secure a position focused on climate-related challenges.
- Luxembourg: Prime Minister Luc Frieden has confirmed Christophe Hansen as the Grand Duchy’s nominee. Hansen, known for his work on the EU’s deforestation regulation and agriculture, will likely continue shaping crucial EU trade policies.
- The Netherlands: Wopke Hoekstra is no stranger to the European Commission, having succeeded Frans Timmerman following the Dutch general election last year. He proved decisive during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai last November and will most likely seek to build upon previously finalized legislation and will be critical for shaping future environmental legislation.
- Spain: Spanish Socialist Teresa Ribera is the leading candidate for climate and environment commissioner, supported by both the Greens and Socialists. Ribera’s appointment could be pivotal for advancing Europe’s climate agenda.
- Slovakia: Maroš Šefčovič currently leads as the executive Vice-president for the European Green Deal, having previously voiced concerns surrounding Chinese dominance in critical mineral and resource markets, as well as the need to ensure fair competition. Šefčovič will be crucial, his previous three mandates and his leadership in the European Green Deal will bring consistency and experience to the new commission and efforts to shape Europe’s green plans.
Blog
Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation: everything you need to know
Feeling the pressure to become more sustainable? You’re not alone. In 2024, companies face a growing need to switch to eco-friendly practices, and ecodesign is a key part of that journey. This blog post is your guide to the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
READ ARTICLE
Eliza Druta
Hi, my name is Eliza and I am curating this newsletter to bring Brussels’ main sustainability insights to your inbox, every month. Do not hesitate to reach out should you need more information on the newsletter’s content or if you have suggestions for our next editions.
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