Source: European Environmental Agency

Leena Ylä-Mononen, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency (EEA), recently delivered a keynote address in Brussels, emphasising that the European Green Deal must be upheld. She further highlighted that these policies not only safeguard the environment but also enhance the EU’s competitiveness and security, while fostering a more equitable and healthier society.

This address was part of a special policy discussion titled ‘Staying the course: driving sustainability forward in a shifting geopolitical context’, co-hosted by the Friends of Europe think-tank in Brussels, scheduled for 3 December.

In her remarks, the EEA Executive Director underscored the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of recent political and policy changes. She cautioned that EU leaders must not overlook the urgent crises brought on by a rapidly changing climate and the slow but steady environmental degradation, such as water scarcity and soil erosion, which pose long-term threats to our societies, economies, and food security if not addressed promptly. “These imply future financial and societal costs that are so high, they may be impossible to bear… not acting now will be much more costly in the future,” Ylä-Mononen said.

“Security in the 21st century goes beyond purely military and defence considerations. A comprehensive approach to security recognises the critical roles that environment, climate, and sustainability play in ensuring long-term stability and resilience.”

In a call to action the Executive Director urgee EU decision makers to make sure existing climate and environment legislation is fully implemented and to ensure “a significant acceleration of work on emissions reduction, climate adaptation and environmental protection,” alongside measures to make sure vulnerable populations are not left behind.

She stated that competitiveness and security “can go hand in hand with environment and climate ambitions,” by ensuring a stable natural resource base that can enhance the EU’s long-term resilience and strengthen its competitive position.