“Europe’s 2050 environment and climate ambitions: reinventing the economy of the 21st century” by Dr Hans BRUYNINCKX

On 8 January 2016, Dr Hans BRUYNINCKX, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency (EEA), gave a guest lecture on “Europe’s 2050 environment and climate ambitions: reinventing the economy of the 21^st century” at the College of Europe, Bruges campus.

In his very engaged presentation, Dr BRUYNINCKX first introduced the work of the EEA, focusing in particular on the findings of the Agency’s report “The European environment – state and outlook 2015” (SOER). The SOER report finds that while the implementation of environment and climate policies has delivered substantial benefits for the functioning of Europe’s ecosystems and the living standards of its citizens, a certain discrepancy exists between positive short-term trends and more challenging long-term perspectives. 
Drawing the policy implications from these findings, Dr BRUYNINCKX argued that attaining the objectives of the 7^th EU Environmental Action Programme (EAP 7) “Living Well, Within the Limits of our Planet” at a time horizon 2050 will require fundamental transitions in European systems of production and consumption. As Europe faces an increasing number of global mega-trends affecting its environment and living standards, neither its current environmental policies, nor economic or technology-driven efficiency gains will be sufficient to achieve its 2050 vision. Systemic transitions require a greater sense of urgency and more coherent policies. Examples of such policies include smarter and more targeted investments aimed at transforming key systems such as in the energy, housing or transport sectors. 

Following his intervention, a vivid question and answer session ensued.

The event was organized by the Department of EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies, and supported by the European Energy Policy Chair of the College of Europe. It was well-attended by students and staff from the College as well as by external guests.

The Power Point slides presented by Dr BRUYNINCKX can be accessed here.