7 keys to make your vote count in these European elections

If you're a European citizen, this week holds considerable significance. The EU elections aren't just crucial for politicians, they also matter greatly to EU businesses and citizens. It's your opportunity to voice what you believe EU institutions should prioritize in the coming five years.

The last mandate has seen an acceleration of sustainability policies in Europe with the European Green Deal. This initiative aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, promoting a sustainable and circular economy. With its broad range of policies and legislative measures, the Green Deal is essential to disconnect economic growth from resource consumption and environmental impact.

Depending on the outcomes of these elections, the level of ambition regarding the green agenda and sustainability-related legislative processes may be at risk.

If you want your vote to ensure that the elected representatives work towards a sustainable future, here is a detailed guide on the aspects you should look for in the political programs of the candidates:

1. Climate change and energy

• Commitment to international agreements. Check if the party supports the Paris Agreement and other international treaties related to climate change.
• Transition and energy efficiency. Evaluate proposals regarding the transition to renewable energies, including specific timelines and goals to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and look for proposals that promote energy efficiency.

2. Circular economy and waste management

• Promotion of a circular economy. Check for plans to reduce, reuse and recycle materials, decreasing waste and encouraging resource reuse.
• Waste legislation. Analyze proposals for waste management, including the implementation of effective recycling systems.

3. Biodiversity and conservation

• Ecosystem protection. Check if the party has proposals to protect natural areas and promote biodiversity.
• Sustainable agriculture. Evaluate policies on sustainable agriculture, promoting farming practices that respect the environment and biodiversity.

4. Industrial and innovation policy

• Clean technology development. Assess if the party supports the research and development of clean and sustainable technologies.
• Regulation and support for industry. Check for proposals to regulate polluting industries and support companies adopting sustainable practices.

5. Climate and social justice

• Equity in transition. Analyze if there are measures to ensure that the transition to a sustainable economy does not harm the most vulnerable communities.
• Education and environmental awareness. Check if the party promotes environmental education and awareness of sustainability at all levels of society.

6. Foreign policy and international cooperation

• Global sustainability leadership. Check if the party has a clear position on international cooperation regarding sustainability and climate change.
• Sustainable development aid. Evaluate proposals to support sustainable development in developing countries.

7. Transparency and accountability

• Transparency in environmental policies. Look for clear commitments regarding transparency in the implementation and monitoring of environmental policies.
• Accountability. Evaluate if the party proposes mechanisms to be held accountable for its sustainability commitments.

At BCome, we aim to provide you with a clear and critical view of the sustainability proposals from different political parties, helping you make informed decisions in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Don't miss our latest content on fashion and sustainability!

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