We believe

★ that our objective is to combat climate change with an environmentally integrated society.

★ We feel that setting binding targets could help to ensure that the European Union meets its ambitious climate and energy targets.

★ that going beyond the 20% reduction in EU greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels to 30% reduction is realistic.

★ that tackling the climate and energy challenge contributes to the creation of jobs and will strengthen Europe’s competitiveness.

★ that the EU ETS is a key tool for cutting industrial greenhouse gas emissions most cost-effectively and welcome the introduction of a single EU-wide cap on emission allowances in place of the existing system of national caps.

★ in the completion of the internal energy market and the role of local and regional authorities in finding structural and sustainable solutions.

We will

➔ support the creation of the Energy Union and will encourage citizens’ participation in developing the internal energy market, both as consumers and producers.

➔ champion renewable energies, energy efficiency, decentralised energy production/distribution, and investment in local and regional smart grid projects.

➔ recognise the role that regional networks are playing in the fight against climate change, as well as the role of LRAs in the fight and mitigation of climate change.

➔ campaign for the merger of the Covenant of Mayors and the Mayors Adapt as both initiatives are implemented by local authorities.

➔ To achieve energy security, clean energy and unlock new potentials, we will campaign for the development of wave and tidal stream technologies.

➔ contribute within the CoR and beyond to urge for a binding global climate change agreement and for its successful implementation, including by local and regional authorities.