Publications

Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the Policy Paper "Between climate action and competitiveness: towards a coherent industrial policy in the EU" by Ecologic Institute
This new report from Ecologic Institute, PIK and IER discusses what EU industrial policy should look like, what principles it should follow and how it interacts with the set of existing EU climate and energy policies. The report proposes six principles for an EU industrial policy for climate action and discusses the 'industrial policy trilemma' of navigating goals in climate action, competitiveness, and security.

Between Climate Action and Competitiveness: Towards a coherent industrial policy in the EU

Principles for an EU industrial policy for climate action

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Publication:Article
 
Screenshot of a scientific article titled 'Transforming ambition into action to catalyse nature-based solutions: Insights from 250 good practice policy instruments' by McKenna Davis, Natalia B. Cuevas, and Maren H. Gvein. The article is published in the journal Nature-Based Solutions, Volume 6, 2024. The abstract highlights the challenges and potential of nature-based solutions (NbS) to address global issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Nature-based solutions (NbS) hold immense potential to address global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss – but how can ambitious goals finally be translated into action? This article provides valuable insights into 250 practical policy instruments from 41 countries that successfully promote NbS. For the first time, a systematic evaluation of good practice examples is presented, aimed at helping cities and communities implement NbS effectively. From innovative approaches to long-term sustainable solutions, the authors highlight how policy design around NbS can be optimized globally. The article provides concrete recommendations and inspiring success stories to advance the implementation of NbS in your region!

Transforming Ambition into Action to Catalyse Nature-based Solutions

Insights from 250 good practice policy instruments

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Publication:Document
 
Dr Ralph Bodle, Arne Riedel and Dr Stephan Sina from Ecologic Institute's Legal Team are among the authors of the comprehensive legal commentary on climate change law (BeckOK Klimarecht), which was published by C. H. Beck on their online platform in December 2024. The commentary is edited by Prof Ekkehard Hofmann and Dr Franziska Heß and is the first to cover climate-related laws and treaties at international, European and national level.

BeckOK Klimarecht

Legal commentaries on Climate Law

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
A teal-colored policy brief cover titled "Ensuring carbon farming delivers sustainability benefits: Recommendations for carbon farming certification methodologies." It is associated with Project CREDIBLE, focused on building trust in soil carbon farming within the EU. The document notes European Union funding under Grant Agreement nº 101112951 and includes the project website link, www.project-credible.eu. Logos and design elements in the footer show a stylized "C" and patterns resembling leaves.
Carbon farming allows farmers to mitigate climate change, but these practices also impact other sustainability outcomes, including biodiversity, soil health, and water. In this brief, we propose how the EU's regulation establishing a Carbon Removal and Carbon Farming Certification Framework (CRCF) can ensure that carbon farming also delivers sustainability benefits, in the context of carbon farming on mineral soils.

Ensuring Carbon Farming Delivers Sustainability Benefits

Recommendations for carbon farming certification methodologies

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the policy brief "Carbon removals and emissions reductions from climate-friendly soil management: defining key terms", published on 15th November 2024, writtenby Hugh McDonald.
Climate-friendly soil management measures generate climate impact through both temporary carbon removals and emissions reductions, posing a challenge for defining key terms such as "carbon removals", "emissions reductions," "avoided emissions," and "negative emissions". This brief reviews scientific definitions of these key terms to create a mini-glossary and discuss key definitional issues in the soil carbon context. A key conclusion is that different policy contexts require definitions to be adapted.

Carbon Removals and Emissions Reductions from Climate-friendly Soil Management

Defining key terms

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Publication:Report
 
The cover page of a report titled From ideas to action: INTERLACE impulses for successfully implementing NbS in cities. The header features the INTERLACE logo and tagline, "Restoring Urban Ecosystems / Recuperando Ecosistemas Urbanos." The INTERLACE city impulse papers, authored by Gutiérrez Miranda, Marcela, et al. The design includes a vibrant, multicolored abstract swirl, framing an image of a person riding a bicycle through a tree-lined, sunny urban park.
The report ‘From Ideas to Action’ presents the strategy papers of the seven INTERLACE partner cities, which were developed in close cooperation with local stakeholders in Europe and Latin America. These papers highlight tailor-made strategies for nature-based solutions (NbS), including the revitalisation of urban parks in Chemnitz and the development of a search engine for green infrastructure projects in Kraków. The aim is to effectively address the unique challenges of each city, such as climate change, biodiversity loss and social inequality.

From Ideas to Action

INTERLACE impulses for successfully implementing NbS in cities

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Publication:Article
 
Cover of a research article from the Marine Pollution Bulletin. The title reads "Temporal variability of litter pollution of rivers in Germany – A long-term assessment by schoolchildren as citizen scientists." The article lists multiple authors and affiliations, and the abstract discusses the study's findings on river litter dynamics. Visible sections include the abstract and the introduction.
A seven-year citizen science study with schoolchildren on German riversides found stable litter density, mainly plastic and cigarette butts, with wider rivers showing higher litter levels, stressing the need for policy action.

Temporal Variability of Litter Pollution of Rivers in Germany

A long-term assessment by schoolchildren as citizen scientists

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Publication:Book
 
A new textbook entitled 'Urban Nature: New directions for city futures', co-authored by Ecologic Institute's McKenna Davis, has just been published. The introductory textbook with a global scope aims to train students of geography, sustainability, and urban and environmental studies to re-imagine and transform cities to meet climate, biodiversity, and sustainability challenges. It speaks directly to the twin crises of biodiversity loss and a changing climate as well as the imperative to integrate justice with urban nature and nature-based solutions, putting cities in focus as spaces and places for transformative change.

Urban Nature – New Directions for City Futures

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Publication:Document
 
The analysis by Ariadne project partners examines Germany's climate foreign policy during the current legislative period. Beyond the international context, they also consider the organizational structure within the German government and the responsible ministries. The researchers conclude that Germany has been able to set the pace for international climate policy by transferring the responsibility for international climate policy to the Foreign Office and creating the role of Special Envoy for International Climate Policy. In contrast, the record of Germany's engagement in bilateral and plurilateral formats has yielded mixed results.

Deutschlands Klimaaußenpolitik: Kontext – Rückschau – Weiterentwicklung

Ariadne-Analyse

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the European Environment Agency's report titled 'Europe's state of water 2024: The need for improved water resilience.' The cover features an abstract illustration of a river winding through a landscape of hills and valleys, in shades of blue and yellow. The logo of the European Environment Agency's 30th anniversary is displayed in the top left corner.
On 15 October 2024, the European Environmental Agency (EEA) published their landmark report on the state of water in the EU, the most comprehensive assessment of the status of European groundwater, rivers, lakes and coastal waters to date. Supported by Ecologic Institute through its coordination of the contributions from the European Topic Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystems, the publication analyses various European data flows relevant to water management, with a particular focus on data reported by the Member States under the EU Water Framework Directive.

Europe's State of Water 2024

The need for improved water resilience

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the interim report titled 'The EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework: Options for using certified removal units and funding mitigation activities.' The report is part of the 'Climate Change 44/2024' series and is published by the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt).
With the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF), adopted in 2024, the EU established a voluntary framework for carbon removal certification, which includes criteria for the certification of removals, rules for the certification process and the recognition of certification schemes. A new report by the Ecologic Institute and the Oeko-Institut for Germany’s Federal Environment Agency (UBA) discusses options for how certified removal units may be used. The report also explores what policy options are available to complement funding for removals besides revenues generated through the CRCF.

The EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework

Options for using certified removal units and funding mitigation activities

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the report titled 'Bridging continents: Exploring the state-of-play of Nature-based Solutions in the EU and LAC: Building a foundation for collaboration.' The report is an Independent Expert Report commissioned by the European Commission. The design includes a large globe with two location markers connecting Europe and Latin America. In the foreground, people are seated at a table labeled 'Research and Innovation,' symbolizing collaboration across continents.
The Publications Office of the European Union has just released an Independent Expert Report titled "Bridging Continents: Exploring the State-of-Play of Nature-Based Solutions in the EU and LAC: Building a Foundation for Collaboration", which was co-authored by Natalia Burgos and McKenna Davis of Ecologic Institute and Daniela Rizzi. This report delves into the progress, challenges, and opportunities in implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) across the European Union (EU) and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

Bridging Continents – Exploring the State-of-play of Nature-based Solutions in the EU and LAC

Building a foundation for collaboration

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the final report titled 'Rechtsgutachten zur Krisenfestigkeit des EU-ETS' (Legal Opinion on the Resilience of the EU-ETS). The report is part of the 'Climate Change 43/2024' series. Authors include Lina-Marie Dück and Madeleine Pumberger from the Ecologic Institute in Berlin, and Michael Jakob from Climate Transition Economics, Berlin. The report is published by the Umweltbundesamt (German Environment Agency), and the blue cover features the Umweltbundesamt logo at the bottom.
This report analyses the resilience of the European Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and shows how global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic or the war in Ukraine can affect its operation. In view of rising energy prices and economic uncertainties, it becomes clear that the EU ETS needs to improve its legal resilience to crisis situations. The report highlights necessary reforms to make emissions trading more resilient and effective in the future.

Rechtsgutachten zur Krisenfestigkeit des EU-ETS

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the GOVAQUA policy brief titled 'Building water resilience: towards better implementation of ecological flows and water allocation in Europe,' dated 7 October 2024. The top half of the cover shows a cracked, dried soil surface with a green plant growing from it, symbolizing water scarcity and resilience. The lower half of the cover presents the policy brief text with key messages and is co-branded with logos of the European Union, UK Research and Innovation, and GOVAQUA.
As Europe faces increasing droughts and water shortages, it is crucial to rethink how we manage water resources. A new policy brief explores strategies to improve ecological flows and water allocation, offering vital insights for policymakers and stakeholders. Discover how these measures can safeguard ecosystems and support sustainable water use in the face of climate change.

Building Water Resilience

Towards better implementation of ecological flows and water allocation in Europe

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Publication:Article
 
Cover of a publication from 'Cambridge Prisms' titled 'Plastics.' The cover features a gradient background transitioning from deep red to blue, with white lines cutting across the lower half. The title 'Plastics' is displayed in simple white text.
In this article, we delve into the first zero draft of the treaty, offering a critical examination of its approach and potential shortcomings. Our analysis not only identifies key gaps in the draft's problem definition and scope but also underscores the urgent need for a more comprehensive and holistic strategy that addresses both upstream and downstream solutions, i.e. the whole life-cycle. For policymakers, environmental advocates, and stakeholders eager for a robust global response to plastic pollution, this open access article offers essential insights into the path forward.

The Missing Consensus: An analysis of problem definitions and key motivations in the first zero draft for a global plastics treaty

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Publication:Article
 
Double-page article entitled ‘Nature-based solutions to urban challenges’ from a publication. The article describes the INTERLACE project. In addition to text, the page contains images, including a green park landscape, a woman on a bicycle in an urban environment and people working on a riverbank. Logos of INTERLACE, Ecologic Institute and partner organisations as well as a QR code are also shown.
The INTERLACE project, funded by Horizon 2020, exemplifies innovative transdisciplinary approaches to tackling urban challenges through nature-based solutions (NBS). By fostering stakeholder engagement, developing practical tools, and supporting ecosystem restoration, the project empowers cities across Europe and Latin America to implement sustainable NBS. McKenna Davis and Benedict Buebfrom Ecologic Institute provided key insights into the project's progress and outcomes.

Nature-based Solutions to Urban Challenges

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of a report titled 'Pricing methane emissions from the energy sector: Considerations of options for the EU.' The report is authored by Raffaele Piria and Benjamin Görlach, with the final report date being September 30, 2024. The Ecologic Institute logo is featured at the top, and the design includes grey and blue geometric shapes on a white background.
This paper examines whether an EU-wide pricing mechanism should be introduced and explores feasible design options. It concludes that the EU should price CH4 emissions from the energy sector to complement the EU-MER, providing an economic incentive to reduce CH4 emissions beyond the mandated level.

Pricing Methane Emissions from the Energy Sector

Consideration of options for the EU

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Publication:Brochure
 
Cover of the "Ponderful: Ponds for Climate" technical guide. The top section shows a serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and a large tree in the foreground. Below, the title "Ponds and Pondscapes" appears on a blue background, followed by the subtitle: "A technical guide to the use of ponds and pondscapes as nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation." The bottom section features an underwater image of a colorful newt among aquatic vegetation.
The technical handbook of the PONDERFUL project shows how ponds and pond landscapes can be used as Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to tackle societal challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and water scarcity. The PONDERFUL handbook provides practice-oriented guidelines for dealing with these valuable ecosystems and shows how ponds can be integrated into existing landscapes so that nature and people benefit equally.

Ponds and Pondscapes: A technical guide to the use of ponds and pondscapes as nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation

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Publication:Report
 
The cover page of a report titled Integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Policy and Planning: Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities. The design features the INTERLACE logo and tagline, "Restoring Urban Ecosystems / Recuperando Ecosistemas Urbanos," on a white background. The right side displays a vibrant urban scene, showing a cityscape with a mix of modern buildings, including a tall, white skyscraper and a unique architectural structure, surrounded by dense greenery under a blue sky.
Der Bericht "Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities" (dt.: Erkenntnisse und Lektionen aus den INTERLACE-Städten), fasst die Erfahrungen der sieben Partnerstädte in Europa und Lateinamerika zusammen. Er richtet sich an politische Entscheidungsträger:innen und Stadtplaner:innen, die naturbasierte Lösungen (NbS) systematisch in ihre städtischen Planungs- und Governance-Strukturen einbinden möchten. Dabei betont die Publikation die Bedeutung inklusiver Beteiligungsprozesse sowie den Einsatz moderner Daten- und Finanzierungsinstrumente, um NbS auf eine breitere Ebene zu skalieren.

Integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Policy and Planning

Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities

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Publication:Brochure
 
Cover of the "Using Ponds and Pondscapes as Nature-Based Solutions" guidance document. The left side shows a young girl sitting on a wooden pier extending into a calm pond surrounded by lush greenery. The right side features the title and subtitle in bold white text on a green gradient background: "Using Ponds and Pondscapes as Nature-Based Solutions: Guidance for policy makers on the use of ponds and pondscapes as nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation."
The recently published guide "Using ponds and pondscapes as nature-based solutions" is a practical guide for policy makers. The guide provides detailed recommendations on using ponds and pondscapes as nature-based solutions, in particular to adapt to climate change and promote biodiversity. In addition to the policy dimension, it contains practical suggestions for monitoring, management and restoration of ponds.

Using Ponds and Pondscapes as Nature-based Solutions

Guidance for policy makers

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Publication:Web Application
 
Screenshot from an online course platform for a course titled 'Nature-based Solutions: How to regenerate nature to make neighborhoods more livable, biodiverse, and resilient to climate change.' The image shows an aerial view of a neighborhood with the course title overlaid. On the right, it states 'All lessons have been completed,' and a progress bar shows 100% completion. Below, a section for reviewing an introduction module is visible along with the Interlace project logo.
Urban areas across the globe are facing unprecedented challenges – pollution, climate change, urban sprawl – and traditional solutions are falling short. Join the Interlace project's free online course to discover how nature-based solutions offer a promising approach to help create resilient, sustainable cities.

Nature-based Solutions: How to regenerate nature to make neighborhoods more livable, biodiverse, and resilient to climate change

MOOC

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of a report titled 'Neue Kooperationsformen für die Transformation regionaler Agri-Food-Systeme' (New forms of cooperation for the transformation of regional agri-food systems). The subtitle mentions that it is a compilation for the field of action 'Access to land.' The cover features the KOPOS logo, which shows a fork splitting a circle with 'Urban' and 'Rural' labels. Logos for the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), FONA, and Stadt Land Plus are displayed at the bottom.
How can regional agricultural and food systems be made more sustainable? This report highlights new models of cooperation that bring together farmers, consumers and civil society actors to improve access to land and strengthen regional economic cycles. A key finding is that such co-operations are not only ecologically beneficial, but also create social and economic synergies for rural regions.

Neue Kooperationsformen für die Transformation regionaler Agri-Food-Systeme

Eine Zusammenstellung für das Handlungsfeld "Zugang zu Land"

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Publication:Article
 
In recent discussions surrounding the Clean Industrial Deal, there has been growing recognition of the need to not only prioritize industrial transformation but also integrate social and environmental considerations. This approach is vital for ensuring that the green transition is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable in the long term. The blogpost, authored by members of the Think Sustainable Europe network, underscores that climate action must go hand-in-hand with social protection measures and environmental safeguards.

Why the Clean Industrial Deal Must Address Social and Environmental Concerns

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
RESTORE4C Policy Brief Coastal Wetlands
The first policy brief of the EU-funded RESTORE4Cs project highlights the importance of European coastal wetlands in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and removing carbon from the atmosphere, promoting their restoration as a climate change mitigation solution.

How Can Coastal Wetlands Help Achieve EU Climate Goals?

A Policy Brief from the RESTORE4Cs project

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Publication:Article
 
Tagesspiegel Standpunkt AfD
The notion of "not giving the AfD a platform" is a widespread conviction and practice. It has not prevented the AfD's successes. It has failed. Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf discusses what should happen next in the Tagesspiegel.

Starker Zuspruch für die AfD – was tun?

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Fact Sheet
 
Fact sheet ey objectives, main obstacles, main approaches, and knowledge exchange solutions involved in the process. It also includes a spotlight on Fusarium, a serious fungal disease affecting cereal crops. The infographic features images of Slovenia, dairy farming elements, and icons representing agronomic change, financial barriers, and technical, economic, and advisory solutions.
A family farm in Brežice, Slovenia, took the leap into organic agriculture to overcome high input costs, low economic viability, and limited control over their business. The SPRINT project is studying this farm to understand how the transition to organic farming – by eliminating synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, introducing crop rotations, and experimenting with new feeding strategies – can lead to a more sustainable and profitable operation. This case study highlights the challenges and successes of the farm in adopting an organic approach.

Organic Dairy Farming in Slovenia

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Publication:Fact Sheet
 
Fact sheet titled 'Sustainable Fruit Production in Slovenia' from the SPRINT Success Stories series. The fact sheet focuses on the Fruit Centre Maribor's efforts to promote sustainable fruit production practices that minimize reliance on synthetic pesticides. It includes sections on the challenges, key objectives, main obstacles, overcoming barriers, agronomic solutions, and knowledge exchange solutions. It features images of Slovenia, various fruits, and icons representing agronomic change...
In Slovenia, the Fruit Centre Maribor is dedicated to promoting sustainable fruit production practices while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. The SPRINT project studies the Centre's work to understand how the use of more resistant fruit varieties, self-developed plant-based pesticides, and improved soil quality can contribute to more sustainable cultivation. This case study explores the challenges and solutions the Centre has encountered in implementing sustainable methods in fruit production.

Sustainable Fruit Production in Slovenia

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Publication:Fact Sheet
 
Fact sheet titled 'Food Value Chains for Leveraging Clean Drinking Water in Rennes, France' from the SPRINT Success Stories series. The infographic describes the 'Terres de Sources' initiative in Rennes, France, which uses public procurement to promote good agricultural practices to protect drinking water quality. It includes sections on the challenge, key objectives, main obstacles, policy solutions, and knowledge exchange solutions. The fact sheet features images of France, a farmer's market.
The city of Rennes in France faces the challenge of securing the quality of its drinking water, as intensive agricultural practices have led to significant pollution of water resources. As part of the "Terres de Sources" initiative, which was studied within the SPRINT project, sustainable solutions have been developed to improve drinking water quality through environmentally friendly agricultural practices while also promoting local food production and marketing. This case study illustrates how the initiative successfully implements measures to reduce pesticide use and promote sustainable value chains.

Food Value Chains for Leveraging Clean Drinking Water in Rennes, France

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Publication:Fact Sheet
 
Fact sheet detailing the promotion of good agricultural practices in vineyards at St. Emilion, France. It highlights the challenges of pesticide use in vineyards, key objectives such as implementing a holistic environmental program, and the regulatory solutions including compulsory certification.
The vineyards of St. Emilion, France, face significant challenges due to the reliance on pesticides, particularly given the region's susceptibility to mildew. However, the winegrowers of St. Emilion have successfully committed to a sustainable future by implementing stringent environmental regulations and significantly reducing pesticide use. This case study highlights the initiatives and successes achieved in the region, which aims to promote sustainable practices in viticulture.

Promoting Good Agricultural Practices in Vineyards, St Emilion, France

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover page of the report titled 'Empfehlungen für die Umsetzung eines nachhaltigen und gesellschaftlich akzeptierten Unterbodenmanagements in Deutschland' (Recommendations for the Implementation of a Sustainable and Socially Accepted Subsoil Management in Germany). Key recommendations are listed, focusing on political frameworks, value chains, collaboration with practitioners, legal clarity, and further research support.
This policy brief outlines recommendations for sustainable and socially accepted subsoil management in Germany. Subsoil, located below the plowed topsoil layer, holds essential nutrients and water reserves crucial for plant growth and sustainable bioeconomy practices. The Soil³ project (2015–2025) investigated methods to enhance subsoil usage, focusing on increasing plant root access to this layer without compromising its ecological functions.

Empfehlungen für die Umsetzung eines nachhaltigen und gesellschaftlich akzeptierten Unterbodenmanagements in Deutschland

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the final report titled 'Auswirkung des Klimawandels auf die Wasserverfügbarkeit – Anpassung an Trockenheit und Dürre in Deutschland (WADKlim)' (Impact of Climate Change on Water Availability – Adaptation to Drought and Dryness in Germany). The report is part of the 'TEXTE 143/2024' series and is published by the Umweltbundesamt (German Environment Agency).
The final report of the WADKlim project outlines how climate change affects water availability in Germany and what measures must be taken to meet these challenges. Combining analysis of scientific literature, modeling and the development of practical solutions, the report offers valuable ideas for dealing with water scarcity and water use conflicts. The implementation of further measures, such as water retention in the countryside, will be crucial to mitigating the effects of climate change in Germany.

Auswirkung des Klimawandels auf die Wasserverfügbarkeit – Anpassung an Trockenheit und Dürre in Deutschland (WADKlim)

Abschlussbericht

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Publication:Book Section
 
Book cover titled 'Współczesne Wyzwania Prawa Ochrony Klimatu', edited by Maria Magdalena Kenig-Witkowska, Anna Barczak, and Marcin Stoczkiewicz. The cover has a simple design with a white background and a blue section at the bottom. The publisher's logo, Wolters Kluwer, is visible at the lower left corner.
As an output of the international academic conference "Towards the Polish Climate Protection Act" on 7 September 2022 in Szczecin, Wolters Kluwer Poland has published an edited volume entitled "Współczesne Wyzwania Prawa Ochony Klimatu" (Contemporary challenges of climate law). Dr. Stephan Sina, Senior Fellow at Ecologic Institute, contributed an English language essay on the German Federal Climate Change Act. He describes the development and main features of the Act, as well as its revision based on the decision of the Federal Constitutional Court on 24 March 2021. He also presents lessons learned and good practices, and addresses challenges.

The German Federal Climate Change Act

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report titled 'Raising the bar on national climate governance in the EU' by the Ecologic Institute.
How EU policy can help Member States deliver certainty, accountability, consistency, and consensus in their policymaking on the road to net zero. A stocktaking of climate governance systems across EU Member States and assessment of EU policy options for their enhancement.

Raising the Bar on National Climate Governance in the EU

How EU policy can help Member States deliver certainty, accountability, consistency, and consensus on the road to net zero

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Publication:Infographic
 
An animated infographic depicting interconnected gears representing key elements of transformative EU climate policy. The gears are color-coded to represent different themes: yellow for integration, purple for infrastructure, green for innovation, and blue for investment. Each gear is labeled with specific actions or strategies, such as "Principled priority to climate & do-no-harm principle," "Strengthen EU Integrated Infrastructure Planning," and "European Climate Investment Plan."
To achieve climate neutrality, a whole-of-government approach, increased public funding, and strategic policy support are essential. The 4i-TRACTION project outlined ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action. This infographic, conceptualised and designed by Ecologic Institute, outlines ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action.

Ten Recommendations Towards Transformative EU Climate Policy

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Publication:Podcast
 
With the recent EU elections behind us, the challenge arises of how to continue the momentum towards climate neutrality while navigating the evolving political landscape. The focus now shifts to implementing the policy framework left behind by the last Commission, while also developing new, ambitious climate policies. In this episode of "Climate ON AIR," hosts Aaron Best and Bradlie Martz-Sigala discuss the way forward for EU climate policy with Bettina Kampman (CE Delft) and Benjamin Görlach (Ecologic Institute).

What Next? Advancing Towards Climate Neutrality in a Challenging Political Environment

Sixth episode of the podcast "CLIMATE ON AIR – Discussing the future of EU climate policy"

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Publication:Report
 
The image is a cover page for a report titled "State of EU progress to climate neutrality." The cover features the following elements: Title: The title "State of EU progress to climate neutrality" is prominently displayed in bold white text on a deep purple background. Subtitle: Below the title, the subtitle reads, "An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks for a climate neutral future." Date: The date "July 2024" is shown below the subtitle.
The European Climate Neutrality Observatory's (ECNO) second annual assessment of progress towards climate neutrality confirms that the EU is moving in the right direction, but that the pace is still too slow.

2024 Report: State of EU progress to climate neutrality

An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks

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Publication:Brochure
 
Cover of a guide titled "Städte grün und vielfältig (um)gestalten" by the German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN). The cover features four images of urban green spaces, including a small park, a wooded area, a nature path, and a neighborhood with graffiti art. The guide provides practical advice for municipalities on integrating biodiversity into urban development projects.
The practical guidance "Green and diverse urban (re)design" shows how local authorities can implement concrete measures to promote ecological diversity in urban areas. From the creation of new green spaces and the naturalization of bodies of water to the greening of roofs and façades, the guide offers practical recommendations and illustrative examples.

Städte grün und vielfältig (um)gestalten

Praxisleitfaden für Kommunen zur Berücksichtigung von biologischer Vielfalt in Gebieten der Städtebauförderung

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Publication:Book
 
Cover of the report titled 'Sustainable development in the European Union: Monitoring report on progress towards the SDGs in an EU context, 2024 edition' by Eurostat. The design features shades of blue with a colorful hot air balloon graphic in the lower half. The balloon consists of vertical stripes in various colors such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The title of the report is in white text at the top left.
The 2024 overview brochure accompanies Eurostat's eighth regular report monitoring progress towards the SDGs in an EU context. Ecologic Institute's authors covered the chapters on SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The brochure is available for download.

Sustainable Development in the European Union – 2024 Overview

Overview of Progress Towards the SDGs in an EU Context

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Publication:Report
 
cover oage (updated)
This publication discusses the penalty regime to be established by the EU Member States to sanction infringements against the recently adopted EU Methane Regulation (EU-MER). In these regimes, (administrative) fines will play a major role. The EU-MER stipulates that the level of fines must be proportionate to the environmental damage and impact on human health associated with the infringement as the core criterion. The working paper proposes applying a core reference value of 6.000 EUR/tCH4 to be adjusted according to the aggravating or mitigating factors foreseen by the regulation.

Penalties and Selected Legal Issues

Implementing the EU Methane Regulation Working Paper N° 3

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Publication:Report
 
The EU Methane Regulation (EU-MER) is crucial for reducing methane (CH4) emissions from the energy sector, thereby enhancing our chances at achieving the climate targets. This paper discusses the respective roles of the responsible ministries (RM) and the competent authorities (CA) and examines how the CA's tasks can be allocated to various pre-existing agencies at the national or regional level. Additionally, the working paper discusses the importance of political autonomy for CA and how MS can prevent undue influence.

Governance at the National Level: Responsible ministries and competent authorities

Implementing the EU Methane Regulation Working Paper N° 2

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Publication:Report
 
Updated cover page
The EU Methane Regulation (EU-MER) is crucial for reducing methane emissions from the energy sector, thereby enhancing our chances at achieving the climate targets. This paper describes the tasks of the Member States' responsible ministries and competent authorities, analyses the resources they will need to accomplish them, and provides recommendations for effective planning. 

Tasks and Resources Needed at the National Level

Implementing the EU Methane Regulation Working Paper N° 1

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Publication:Book
 
Cover of the report titled 'Sustainable development in the European Union: Monitoring report on progress towards the SDGs in an EU context, 2024 edition' by Eurostat. The design features shades of blue with a colorful hot air balloon graphic in the lower half. The balloon consists of vertical stripes in various colors such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The title of the report is in white text at the top left.
The 2024 publication is Eurostat's eighth regular report monitoring progress towards the SDGs in an EU context. Ecologic Institute's authors covered the chapters on Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), Life on Land (SDG 15) and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). The publication is available for download.

Sustainable Development in the European Union – 2024

Monitoring Report on Progress Towards the SDGs in an EU Context

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover page of a policy brief titled "How to support the transition towards climate friendly and resilient agri-food systems in Central Eastern Europe?" featuring various agricultural images, including people in a field, flowers, cattle grazing, crops, and harvested vegetables. Logos at the bottom include Ecologic, Institute for European Environmental Policy, and Robert Bosch Stiftung.
This policy brief highlights the need for a systemic and integrated approach to support the transition to climate friendly and resilient agri-food systems in CEE countries. The brief underlines how the key policy instruments that countries have at their disposal – the Common Agricultural Policy, National Energy and Climate Plans, and policies to support sustainable food consumption – can be better used to support such an integrated approach. Finally, the brief points to the importance of setting clear goals, as well as developing societal support, and capacities for the transition.

How to Support the Transition Towards Climate Friendly and Resilient Agri-food Systems in Central Eastern Europe?

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report "EU 2040 Climate Target: Contributions of the industry sector"
A new report by the Ecologic Institute and the Oeko-Institut explores the past contribution of the industry sector to already achieved emission reductions as well as the contribution of the industry sector to the upcoming 2040 climate target and what it takes for industry to achieve the related emission reductions. With a focus on measures and policies governing that would further reduce emissions in industry, the report also examines the key challenges faced by the industry sector and how this is addressed in EU legislation.

EU 2040 Climate Target: Contributions of the industry sector

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Publication:Article
 
In this article, the authors, including Anthony Cox of Ecologic Institute, highlight there is little appetite among WTO members for modernizing multilateral subsidy rules at a time when many countries are introducing new forms of support that could potentially exacerbate existing policy disincentives for globally sustainable economic and environmental outcomes.

Practical First Steps Towards Comprehensive Subsidy Reform

Expert View

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Publication:Infographic
 
Poster titled 'Synergies and Strategies for Marine Protection and Climate Adaptation,' illustrating a research project on integrating marine protection and climate adaptation in coastal areas. The poster features a diagram of the Nexus approach, highlighting connections between marine protection, climate adaptation, socio-economic integration, policy, governance, and potential conflicts. Visual elements include various restoration, construction, and management measures ...
The poster ‘Synergies and Strategies for Marine Protection and Climate Adaptation’ presents key results and approaches of research on the integration of marine protection and climate adaptation. It shows how these two areas can be linked in order to effectively meet the challenges of climate change in marine and coastal ecosystems.

Synergien und Strategien für Meersschutz und Klimaanpassung

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the guidance "Developing ambitious local long-term climate neutrality strategies', part of the Ready4NetZero initiative. The graphic depicts a stylized green landscape transitioning from rural areas with wind turbines and solar panels to an urban setting with green buildings. A car emits a green cloud, symbolizing eco-friendly transportation. The lower part of the poster includes logos of supporting organizations like Energie Cities, Eco Logic, and EnergiaKlub.
The guidance document "Developing ambitious local long-term climate neutrality strategies", developed as part of the Ready4NetZero project serves as a comprehensive roadmap for administrative staff in small- and medium-sized municipalities as they navigate the complexities of becoming climate neutral. It is structured to facilitate a clear understanding of the necessary cross-cutting measures for developing effective local long-term climate strategies, including realizing a long-term vision, establishing baselines, fostering participation, planning action, financing, monitoring, evaluation, and ensuring a just transition. 

Developing Ambitious Local Long-term Climate Neutrality Strategies

Charting the course: crafting forward-thinking local climate neutrality strategies

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Publication:Infographic
 
Informative poster titled 'Planning for Net Zero' with colorful illustrations depicting five key elements for effective long-term climate neutrality strategies.
This poster conveys key content from the Ready4NetZero publication "Developing ambitious local long-term climate neutrality strategies". It presents five key elements for effective local long-term climate neutrality strategies.

Planning for Net Zero

Key Elements in Shaping Effective Local Long-term Climate Neutrality Strategies

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Recent Multimedia Publications by Ecologic Institute

Event:Digital Event
 
The Climateurope2 Webstival will take place on 19 and 20 September 2024. This virtual event will provide a platform for exchange on the development, use and quality of climate services and their importance for innovation and policymaking. The Webstival ties in with the 2022 and 2023 editions and will once again address topics relevant to the application of climate services. Registration for the Webstival is still open. Take the opportunity to participate in exciting discussions on the future of climate services.

Climateurope2 Webstival on Climate Innovation and Standardization

Third edition

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Publication:Infographic
 
An animated infographic depicting interconnected gears representing key elements of transformative EU climate policy. The gears are color-coded to represent different themes: yellow for integration, purple for infrastructure, green for innovation, and blue for investment. Each gear is labeled with specific actions or strategies, such as "Principled priority to climate & do-no-harm principle," "Strengthen EU Integrated Infrastructure Planning," and "European Climate Investment Plan."
To achieve climate neutrality, a whole-of-government approach, increased public funding, and strategic policy support are essential. The 4i-TRACTION project outlined ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action. This infographic, conceptualised and designed by Ecologic Institute, outlines ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action.

Ten Recommendations Towards Transformative EU Climate Policy

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Publication:Podcast
 
With the recent EU elections behind us, the challenge arises of how to continue the momentum towards climate neutrality while navigating the evolving political landscape. The focus now shifts to implementing the policy framework left behind by the last Commission, while also developing new, ambitious climate policies. In this episode of "Climate ON AIR," hosts Aaron Best and Bradlie Martz-Sigala discuss the way forward for EU climate policy with Bettina Kampman (CE Delft) and Benjamin Görlach (Ecologic Institute).

What Next? Advancing Towards Climate Neutrality in a Challenging Political Environment

Sixth episode of the podcast "CLIMATE ON AIR – Discussing the future of EU climate policy"

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