The Hungarian Presidency’s programme has been released this month. Water-related aspects are mainly in line with agriculture and the zero pollution initiative:
– A farmer-oriented EU agricultural policy, promoting the competitiveness of the Union by adopting “more sustainable production practices” while discussing proposals for initiatives across the soil, freshwater, food systems, and biomanufacturing areas.
– A healthy and pollutant-free environment where “[…] the quantitative and qualitative protection of surface and underground waters, action against droughts, the sustainable use of available water resources, the provision of clean, healthy, and accessible drinking water and sanitation for all, as well as the development of resilient water management are also of particular importance.” The Hungarian Presidency aims to take further steps in achieving zero pollution by 2050 by progressing in legislation on microbeads, soil monitoring, priority substances in surface and groundwater, as well as the One Substance One Assessment (OSOA) package.
Lastly, the Council prioritizes the adoption of a New European Competitiveness Deal to restore economic development, create conditions for sustainable growth, deepen the internal market, support small and medium-sized enterprises, promote the green and digital transition in partnership with European economic stakeholders and citizens, enhance international cooperation, and ensure the stability and sustainability of jobs. Find the full programme here.
