HEJSupport joined a group of civil society organizations expressing concerns regarding the recently published Draghi report.
The report aims to assist the European Commission in shaping a plan for sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, including the creation of a Clean Industrial Deal.
A key takeaway from the Draghi report is that the chemicals sector, by far the most energy intensive industry, plays a critical role in the European economy. Yet, the report only captures one aspect of the sector’s impact. By not addressing its societal or environmental costs, it neglects and, therefore, perpetuates the negative impacts of this industry on our economy. For this sector to remain competitive and bring societal benefits in the long run, true accounting is necessary.
While the Draghi report recognizes the importance of transitioning to a circular economy, it fails to address the issue of hazardous substances that will continue to circulate and accumulate in products, causing pollution long after their initial use. For a circular economy to be truly competitive, it must eliminate substances that can cause cancer, harm our immune system, or contaminate drinking water, leading to significant societal costs. Additionally, the report overlooks the link between the production of new chemicals and the violation of safe planetary boundaries, which are essential for maintaining long-term competitiveness and a thriving economy.
The complete open letter to the Environment Council and the European Commission, signed by 18 civil society organizations, was sent on October 14, 2024.
