After the EU imposed sanctions on the Russian Federation in 2014, oil supplies have become an increasingly political matter as well as an economic one. Understanding that both overseeing long-term political interests and securing short-term energy supply are vital strategies when ensuring security for EU citizens, how can the EU achieve sustainable and independent energy industries in all Member States?
While positive initiatives to combat food waste have been accredited in several Nordic countries, the EU total in food waste still reaches 88 million tonnes annually. Bearing in mind the economic and ecological burden consequently damaging the EU as a whole, what steps should the EU take towards a more sustainable society and decreased food waste?
Despite overall progress towards fulfilling the Europe 2020 environmental goals, only a handful of Member States have clearly committed to invest in new, sustainable technologies and binding practices. How can the EU ensure that all Member States will will adhere to the same vision, and to the guidelines included in the 2030 Policy Framework for Climate and Energy?
From light cough to cancer – pollution can have hazardous effects on living organisms. With ever expanding industry and increasing market demand for energy, raw materials, and manufactured goods, how can the EU make sure that pollution levels are minimised and human life expectancy and public health continue to increase, while bearing in mind the need for stable economic growth across the Union?
Sharing economy is on the rise globally and collaborative consumption is a fast-growing trend in global markets – but is it for Europe? Platforms such as Uber and AirBnB have grown in popularity in the recent years, but they remain legally and economically controversial. What measures should the EU adopt in response to the growth of sharing economy, emphasising the importance of consumer protection?
With continuous record-low pricing in the global oil market leading to high unemployment in the industry, how could the EU support the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation in its energy sector in order to ensure stability and long term financial growth?
While overfishing poses a serious threat to the survival and diversity of marine ecosystems, increased consumption of fish has a positive influence on public health overall. How can the EU address the increasing market demand in its fisheries policies, while keeping in mind its commitments to marine wildlife and environmental protection?
Is there a future for the rural areas in the EU? With rural inhabitants’ income levels continuously at 25-30% lower than for inhabitants in urban areas, how can the EU foster sustainable economic growth in rural areas all over Europe?