EU Goals for 2050

The pandemic has reignited the debate on environmental sustainability. On one hand, some argue that climate issues should take a back seat to economic recovery; on the other, many believe the pandemic is a global opportunity to relaunch efforts to reduce environmental damage.

Already in 2019, the European Commission adopted a strategic vision for an ecological and climate-neutral economy by 2050, outlining how the transition could take place: technological solutions, citizen engagement, industrial policy, and finance.

The path began in 2015 with the High-level Group on Energy-Intensive Industries, involving steel, cement, aluminum, and other energy-heavy sectors. In 2019, Recommendations were published to fuel the European Green Deal and the new EU Industrial Strategy.

EU Recommendations

Commissioner Arias Cañete stated: «Becoming climate neutral is necessary, possible, and in Europe’s best interest». Key recommendations include:

• Markets: LCA approach, sustainable public procurement, circular competitiveness.
• Innovation: large-scale pilot projects, common eligibility criteria for funding.
• Investment: access to private capital, competition among industries for climate neutrality.
• Energy and raw materials: affordable clean energy, hydrogen, and sustainable raw materials.
• Circular economy: efficiency, technological solutions for circularity, use of renewable materials.
• Social dimension: new skills for workers, consumer communication, support for coal-dependent communities.

And the Agri-Food Sector?

By 2050, agri-food production will have increased by 70% compared to 2007, reaching 3 billion tons of food per year. The sector will have to feed 9 billion people while limiting environmental impact.

Sustainability along the supply chain:

• Upstream: collaboration for resource efficiency, innovation in packaging, improved logistics infrastructure.
• Downstream: raising awareness among retailers and consumers to reduce waste.
• Responsible sourcing: suppliers committed to reducing emissions, protecting workers, and ensuring quality.

On May 20, 2020, the Commission presented the «Farm to Fork» strategy for a sustainable food system, with key 2030 targets: -50% pesticides, -20% fertilizers, -50% antimicrobials, and 25% organic farming.

Conclusion

To achieve climate neutrality, it will be crucial to adopt integrated climate policies, support small farmers, and replace the current industrial model with one that values socially and environmentally responsible practices.

Davide Banfi
Food Science and Technology Specialist