Patrick Child, Deputy Director General of DG Environment and Marieke Schouten, Member of the Committee of the Regions chaired the meeting, held on 9 November in Brussels. On behalf of EuChemS, Secretary General Nineta Hrastelj, and Science Communication and Policy Officer Marton Kottmayer was present.
The morning session began with presentations on what role does the European Year of Skills play in achieving the Zero Pollution Ambition. Attendees shared their perspectives on the relevance of skills. EuChemS contributed to the meeting by sharing best practises on green skills and interdisciplinarity, connecting researchers to policy. In addition, the online course “Good Chemistry” – featuring a module on sustainability – was listed amongst the numerous good examples.
The afternoon session, chaired by Veronica Manfredi, began with a discussion on the New European Bauhaus initiative, and its pollution reduction potential. The following agenda item concerned research and innovation, with a focus on synergies between the Zero Pollution ambition and the Horizon Europe programme. DG ENV representative Manfred Rosenstock highlighted that, as the kickoff of the Horizon initiative preceded the launch of the Zero Pollution initiative, R&I gaps can be identified, specifically within the areas related to improving air, water and/or soil quality. Participants were asked about their view on such gaps, and the meeting concluded with an engaging discussion on potential horizon missions supporting Zero Pollution.
EuChemS’ participation in this, and all previous Zero Pollution Stakeholder Meetings can be viewed here. In addition to the stakeholder platform, the commission also organises an online event series, titled “Zero Pollution Talks” related to the initiative.
