European Union (EU) Standards & Regulatory News

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Aerospace

Civilian Uses of Galileo to be Debated at Conference  Jun 20, 2008
A high-level conference on the "Civilian Applications of Galileo" will begin on June 24 in Brussels. Galileo is the future European system of satellite radio navigation.

EU-U.S. Agreement Opens Up Transatlantic Aviation  Apr 1, 2008
The new air transport agreement between the European Union (EU) and the United States, which allows European airlines to fly without restrictions from any point in the EU to any point in the U.S., took effect on March 30.

Euro Aircraft Emissions, Noise Issues Part of ASME Turbo Expo Agenda  Mar 12, 2008
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) will host the Turbo Expo 2008 - Gas Turbine Technical Congress and Exposition, June 9-13 in Berlin, Germany.

Eurocontrol Council Plans Performance-Based Aviation System  Dec 4, 2007
The 38 Eurocontrol Member States agreed during a November meeting to create a performance-based air traffic management system for Europe, adopting targets for safety, capacity, delays and cost-efficiency.

Eurocontrol Publishes Contingency Planning for Air Navigation Services Guidelines  Dec 3, 2007
Eurocontrol released guidelines to help states and air navigation service providemrs (ANSPs) identify and decide their contingency strategies and operational practices best suited to their needs in various circumstances.

EC Adopts New Rules on Air Traffic Management Systems   Oct 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted new rules for more interoperability among air traffic management (ATM) systems in Europe.

EC Launches Research for Greener, Safer, More Competitive Air Transport  Oct 19, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently unveiled the results of the first call for research proposals in aeronautics and air transport under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research (FP7).

Frost: Euro Airport Security Equipment Market Sees Growth  Oct 11, 2007
The European airport security market looks set for robust growth, according to Frost & Sullivan, particularly in the wake of continued threats, new European Union (EU) airport security regulations, rising passenger traffic and the increasing need to upgrade installed security equipment and integrate it with newly implemented technology.

Europe Reaffirms its Commitment to Cut Aviation Emissions  Oct 2, 2007
The European Union (EU) continued to reaffirm its controversial plan to include airlines in its strategy for reducing carbon dioxide emissions, even though the 36th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) ended on Sep. 28 without clear agreement on a way forward to reduce such emissions from international aviation.

ESA, GNSS Supervisory Authority Cooperate on EGNOS, Galileo  Jun 18, 2007
The European Space Agency (ESA) and the GNSS Supervisory Authority (GSA) signed a cooperation agreement related to the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Galileo programs.

European Commission Aims to Adapt Galileo Roadmap  May 25, 2007
In response to a request from the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament, the European Commission (EC) adopted a communication on the state of play of the Galileo program.

ECSS Unveils Space Project Information/Documentation Management Standard  May 25, 2007
The European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS) issued the ECSS-M-50B - Space Project Management - Information/Documentation Management standard as part of a collection of ECSS standards belonging to the management branch.

EGNOS Prepares for 2008 Certification  May 24, 2007
European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), a European satellite navigation service that provides vertical guidance to pilots during approach and landing, is regularly being tested to demonstrate the capabilities of the technology.

EASA Certifies, FAA Approves Fly-By-Wire Business Jet  May 23, 2007
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued a type certification for the Dassault Aviation business jet, the Falcon 7X.

EU Cites Need for Strong Space Policy to Face Global Challenges  Apr 27, 2007
The European Commission (EC) and the European Space Agency (ESA) recently proposed creating a comprehensive political framework for the development of a strong European space industry.

EC Details Key Applications for Space Industry  Apr 27, 2007
This press memo gives information on the European space industry and on space applications that are key elements in the communication on European space policy adopted on April 26 by the European Commission (EC) and the European Space Agency (ESA).

EC Details Work Needed to Advance Single European Sky  Mar 16, 2007
The European Commission (EC) has recently expressed concern about the progress of the Single European Sky initiative, which aims to modernise air traffic management in Europe (see IP/07/337).

EC Urges Work to Advance Single European Sky  Mar 16, 2007
In a recent communication, the European Commission (EC) expressed concern about the progress of the Single European Sky initiative, which aims to modernise air traffic management, adjusting it to the needs of a highly competitive civil aviation industry and all other airspace users.

EC Reports Progress on Single European Sky Modernisation Project  Mar 15, 2007
The European Commission (EC) released a progress report on SESAR, a project to modernise the air traffic control infrastructure.

Single European Sky Has Positive Impacts on European Air Traffic Management  Mar 13, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently published an independent evaluation of the impact of the Single European Sky (SES) initiative on air traffic management performance.

IATA Applauds UN Guidelines on Emissions Trading  Mar 12, 2007
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) applauded the international consensus on guidance produced by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) for states planning to incorporate international aviation into emissions trading schemes.

ICAO Meeting Participants Agree on Aviation Emissions Trading Guidance   Mar 12, 2007
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) agreed on proposed guidance to incorporate international aviation emissions into the ICAO 189 member states emissions trading schemes, consistent with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change process.

EU, U.S. Negotiators Reach Draft Aviation Agreement  Mar 6, 2007
Negotiators for the European Union (EU) and the U.S. reached a draft aviation agreement on March 2 that is an important milestone towards creating an international aviation industry.

Eurocontrol Aims to Address SSR Code Shortage  Feb 12, 2007
Eurocontrol launched the Centralised SSR Code Assignment and Management System (CCAMS) implementation project, a pan-European solution designed to overcome the current and future shortages of the secondary surveillance radar (SSR) codes used by air traffic control for radar services.

ASD Announces EU-Asia Civil Aviation Co-operation Project Harmonisation Efforts  Jan 15, 2007
AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) announced that the EU-Asia Civil Aviation Co-operation Project resulted in the commitment of Asian authorities and EU industry to further support regional harmonisation in the civil aviation sector.

FAQ on Aviation Emissions and Climate Change  Jan 2, 2007
How big is aviation's contribution to climate change?Direct emissions from aviation account for about 3% of the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the European Union (EU).

EC Proposes Bringing Air Transport into EU Emissions Trading Scheme  Jan 2, 2007
The European Commission (EC) underscored its firm commitment to combating climate change by proposing legislation to bring greenhouse gas emissions from civil aviation into the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS).

Chemicals, Climate Change & Energy

FAQ on EU Response to High Oil Prices  Jun 23, 2008
This document contains answers from the European Union (EU) to frequently asked questions about rising oil prices.

EC's New Water Quality Standards Move Forward   Jun 18, 2008
Agreement about a new directive on environmental water quality standards proposed by the European Commission (EC) was approved in a second reading vote by the European Council of Ministers on June 17.

EEA: Some European CO2 Emissions Decline in 2006   Jun 18, 2008
Greenhouse gas emissions in the first 15 member states of the European Union (EU-15) dropped in 2006, according to the European Environment Agency.

EC's Revised Waste Framework Directive Advances  Jun 18, 2008
Agreement on the revision of the Waste Framework Directive proposed by the European Commission (EC) was approved in a second reading vote by the European Council of Ministers on June 17.

EC Calls for Coordinated Response to Rising Oil Prices  Jun 11, 2008
Based on conclusions reached in a June 11 debate over ways to mitigate the effects of rising global fuel prices, the European Commission (EC) plans to develop a new energy policy communication.

Frost: Environmental Concerns, Electricity Demands Boost Nuclear Energy Market   Jun 10, 2008
Supplying more than 31% of electricity demand, nuclear energy plays a key role in the European Union's (EU's) generation structure, and emerges as a comprehensive and cost-effective generating option.

International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation is Launched   Jun 11, 2008
Energy leaders of the G8 countries, plus China, India, South Korea and the European Commission (EC), signed a ministerial declaration on June 8, establishing a new multilateral energy initiative: the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC).

EU Regulators Commit to Stronger Nuclear Safety Measures  Jun 10, 2008
Nuclear safety regulators from all 27 member states of the European Union (EU) recently reached agreement on steps to further strengthen nuclear safety, radioactive waste management and nuclear facility decommissioning arrangements in the EU.

Frost: Euro Green Investment Market Benefits from Awareness, Regulations   Jun 9, 2008
The European green investment market is on an upswing, according to Frost & Sullivan, thanks largely to increasing awareness and support for the environment, availability of green funds and favorable regulations.

European Court Upholds Existing Ship-Source Pollution Penalties  Jun 6, 2008
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled on June 3 that the directive on ship-source pollution (directive 2005/35/EC), which provides for penalties in the event of accidental discharges, remains valid.

European Chemicals Agency Gives Guidelines on Implementing REACH  Jun 4, 2008
Mandatory registration of non-phase-in chemical substances with the new European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) began on June 1.

FAQ on European Chemicals Agency  Jun 4, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about the new European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), which was inaugurated on June 3.

European Chemicals Agency is Launched  Jun 4, 2008
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) was officially opened on June 3 by representatives of the European Commission (EC) and European Parliament.

EC, Norway Agree to Promote Renewable Energy  Jun 2, 2008
Representatives from the European Commission (EC) and Norway's government affirmed their commitment to promoting renewable energy and carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects as part of Europe's energy strategy.

EU Sets Up Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking  May 30, 3008
On May 30, the European Council of Ministers adopted a regulation setting up the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking.

EC Launches European Green Capital Award   May 28, 2008
On May 22, the European Commission (EC) launched a new annual European Green Capital Award, to be given each year to a city that is leading the way with environmentally friendly urban living.

European Businesses Struggle to Meet CO2 Emissions Caps  May 28, 2008
Overall CO2 emissions from businesses in the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) increased by 0.68% in 2007, when adjusted for changes in the number of installations covered, according to the information provided by EU member state registries.

SAP, TechniData Release Tool for Obtaining EU Chemical Regulation Compliance  May 27, 2008
SAP AG and TechniData AG announced the availability of SAP REACH compliance, a software application for addressing tasks required by the European Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH) legislation.

EC Adopts Air Quality Directive  May 22, 2008
The European Commission (EC) adopted the directive on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe on April 14.

NSF Int'l Issues Sustainability Standard for Beverage Industry   May 16, 2008
NSF International launched the Carbon Action Plan (CAP) to provide beverage companies and their suppliers with a program aimed at carbon footprint measurement.

EU Urges Continued Momentum on U.N. Climate Agreement  Apr 1, 2008
The European Union (EU) said it will be pressing for solid progress when formal negotiations to draw up a new United Nations climate change agreement start on March 31 in Bangkok, Thailand.

EC Launches €80M Fund to Boost Energy Efficiency, RenewablesMar 31, 2008
As part of its initiative to fight against climate change, on March 28 the European Commission (EC) launched the Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF).

Frost: Growing Need for Enhanced Quality Drives Pumps Market in Euro Oil, Gas Sector   Mar 26, 2006
Rising global demand for oil and gas is driving significant demand for energy equipment, such as pumps, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EU Advocate General Issues Opinion on 'Polluter Pays'  Mar 19, 2008
The advocate general for the European Union (EU) issued an opinion on March 17 regarding the "polluter-pays" principle in EU waste law.

Climate Change, Pollution Top List of Europeans' Environmental Concerns  Mar 14, 2008
A Eurobarometer survey published on March 13 shows that over two-thirds of Europeans prefer policy decisions on the environment to be made at the European Union (EU) level.

Frost: Solar Effect Boosts European Inverters Market   Mar 12, 2008
Europe's renewable energy boom has opened up an unprecedented market for solar energy-based inverters, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EU Environment Council to Address Energy, Climate, Biodiversity Issues  Feb 29, 2008
Key topics at the March 3 European Union (EU) Environment Council meeting include the Climate Action and Renewable Energy (CARE) package presented by the European Commission (EC) in January and the proposed regulation to reduce CO2 emissions from new cars.

European Steel Industry Reaffirms Commitment to Reducing CO2 Emissions  Feb 29, 2008
The European Steel Technology Platform (ESTEP) plans to launch a second phase of the Ultra Low CO2 Steelmaking research programme (ULCOS-II).

World's Cleanest Ship Demonstrates Future Waterborne Transport  Feb 29, 2008
The low-emission, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly motor tank vessel named "Victoria" moored in the port of Brussels on Feb. 28 for a special event to illustrate how clean shipping technology can revolutionise the way goods are transported in Europe.

EC Cites Belgium, U.K. for Failures Complying with Energy Performance of Buildings Directive  Feb 29, 2008
The European Commission (EC) launched court proceedings against Belgium and the United Kingdom for failure to notify adequate national implementing measures, as required by the 2002 Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.

EC Invests €9B in Energy Projects under Cohesion Policy  Feb 21, 2008
The European Commission (EC) will invest nearly €9 billion to develop renewable energy and improve energy efficiency in European Union (EU) regions as part of the EU's cohesion policy for 2007-2013.

EC Proposes Partial Ban on Paint Strippers with Dichloromethane  Feb 15, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed restricting the sale and use of paint strippers containing dichloromethane. Such paint removers are used in industry and are also sold in "do-it-yourself" stores, easily available to consumers.

EC Urges Swift Adoption of Climate Change Proposals  Feb 15, 2008
The European Commission (EC) urged the European Council and European Parliament to hasten adoption of its legislative proposals on climate change to help ensure the European Union (EU) meets its Kyoto Protocol targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

EC Proposes Shared Environment Information System  Feb 5, 2008
The European Commission (EC)recently proposed the creation of a European Shared Environment Information System (SEIS) to improve, modernise and streamline current information systems.

EC Gives France Final Warning on Wastewater Treatment Violations   Jan 31, 2008
The European Commission (EC) is sending France a final written warning alerting it that it will be taken to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for the second time unless it quickly brings its wastewater treatment up to European Union (EU) standards.

EC Launches Covenant of Mayors to Combat Global Warming  Jan 31, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently launched the Covenant of Mayors, the most ambitious initiative to date involving European Union (EU) citizens in the fight against climate change.

EC Details Proposed Renewable Energy Directive  Jan 28, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed a renewable energy directive as part of a comprehensive energy and climate change package proposed on Jan. 23.

FAQ on EC's Proposed Changes to Emissions Trading Scheme  Jan 25, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed a thorough reform of the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) that will impose one EU-wide cap on emissions.

EC Proposes New Legislation to Fight Climate Change, Promote Renewables   Jan 25, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently agreed on a far-reaching package of proposals that will deliver the European Council's commitments to fight climate change and promote renewable energy.

EC Takes Steps to Cut Industrial Emissions  Dec 21, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted new legislation on industrial emissions to strengthen the provisions already in force and reduce industrial emissions throughout the European Union (EU).

FAQ on EC's Proposed Legislation on Industrial Emissions  Dec 21, 2007
This article provides answers about the new legislation on industrial emissions proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Dec. 21.

EC Firms Up Plans to Include Aircraft in Emissions Trading Scheme   Dec 21, 2007
The European Commission (EC) welcomed the agreement reached by the European Union (EU) Environment Council on Dec. 20 about including aviation emissions in the EU's Emissions Trading Scheme.

EC Proposes Tighter Limits on Emissions from Trucks, Buses   DEC 21, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently proposed reducing emissions from trucks and buses via a new "Euro VI" standard to become effective in 2013. The proposal will reduce nitrogen oxides by 80% and particulate matter by 66% compared to the Euro V stage.

ANSI/NAM Network to Tackle REACH Implementation Challenges  Dec 19, 2007
Implementing the new European Union (EU) legislation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) poses many challenges for manufacturers in the global supply chain, according to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

EC Introduces Sustainable Economics in Clean Vehicle Legislation  Dec 19, 2007
The recent proposal by the European Commission (EC) to revise its 1995 directive on the promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles introduces the concept of sustainable economics into the public procurement of vehicles and transport services.

FAQ on EC's Proposed Regulation to Reduce Vehicle CO2 Emissions  Dec 19, 2007
This article provides information about the legislation proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Dec. 19 to reduce the average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 120 grams per kilometre by 2012.

EC Proposes Legislation to Limit Vehicle CO2 Emissions  Dec 19, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed legislation to reduce the average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 120 grams per kilometre by 2012.

EC Proposes Legislation to Promote Clean Public Transport Vehicles  DEc 19, 2007
EC Introduces Sustainable Economics in Clean Vehicle Legislation  Dec 19, 2007
The recent proposal by the European Commission (EC) to revise its 1995 directive on the promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles introduces the concept of sustainable economics into the public procurement of vehicles and transport services.

FAQ on EC's Proposed Regulation to Reduce Vehicle CO2 Emissions  Dec 19, 2007
This article provides information about the legislation proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Dec. 19 to reduce the average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 120 grams per kilometre by 2012.

EC Proposes Legislation to Limit Vehicle CO2 Emissions  Dec 19, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed legislation to reduce the average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 120 grams per kilometre by 2012.

EC Proposes Legislation to Promote Clean Public Transport Vehicles  Dec 19, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted a proposal that aims to reduce fuel consumption as well as greenhouse gas emissions from public transport vehicles.

Formal Negotiations Underway on New Global Climate Regime   Dec 17, 2007
The European Union (EU) welcomed the agreement reached at the U.N. climate change conference in Bali to start formal negotiations on a climate regime for the post-2012 period, as well as agreement on a "Bali roadmap" to outline an agenda for these negotiations.

EU Adopts New Regulation for Energy Star Programme  Dec 17, 2007
The European Union (EU) Council of Ministers adopted a new regulation for the implementation of the Energy Star programme in EU member states.

EU Reaches Agreement on New Air Quality Directive  Dec 12, 2007
The European Parliament recently reached agreement with the European Union (EU) Council of Ministers on the text of a new directive on ambient air quality, which will become effective in 2011.

FAQ on Europe's New Air Quality Directive  Dec 12, 2007
Questions and answers about the new directive on ambient air quality, recently negotiated between the European Parliament and the European Union (EU) Council of Ministers, are provided below.

ISO: International Standards Key for Promoting Energy Efficiency  Dec 8, 2007
At November's World Energy Congress in Rome, the subject of energy efficiency and its role in global security was a key topic for the 3,000 industry stakeholders in attendance.

EIB Loans €500M to Support Climate Change Mitigation in China  Nov 30, 2007
The European Investment Bank (EIB) agreed to provide a €500 million loan to the People's Republic of China (PRC) to support its efforts to mitigate climate change, in particular under China's National Climate Change Programme.

EC Says European Business Must Lead Move to Low-Carbon Economy  Nov 30, 2007
Europe's High Level Group on Competitiveness, Energy and Environment recently ended two years of study with a conference called "Towards a global low carbon economy." The conference's key message is that engaging business is critical for such an effort.

EC Launches European Nuclear Energy Forum  Nov 29, 2007
The European Nuclear Energy Forum, initiated by the European Commission (EC) and supported by the March European Council, was inaugurated on Nov. 26 in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Euro Commercial Vehicle Manufacturers Seek to Reduce Air Pollution   Nov 28, 2007
The European commercial vehicle industry aims to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions by a further 80% and particulate matter by 50% compared with the current air pollution control standards for trucks in the European Union (EU).

EC Urges Ambitious Climate Change Agreement at Bali Conference  Nov 27, 2007
For the upcoming U.N. climate change conference in Bali, Indonesia on Dec. 3-14, the European Union (EU) is urging the development of a comprehensive and ambitious global climate change agreement for after 2012, which is the end of the first commitment period for the Kyoto Protocol.

EC Refutes Charges of Emissions Trading Irregularities  Nov 27, 2007
The European Commission (EC) responded to charges of systematic double-counting of carbon allowances under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS), stating that "any allegation that there would have been double-counting is pertinently incorrect."

FAQ on EU's Response to Climate Change  Nov 27, 2007
This document provides detailed information on the response of the European Union (EU) to the global problem of climate change.

EC Issues Annual Progress Report on Climate Change Goals  Nov 27, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently issued its annual report on progress made towards meeting the objectives of the Kyoto Protocol for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

EC Gives Priority to Cross-Border, Green Transportation Projects  Nov 23, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently tabled its proposals for funding Trans-European Transport Networks (TEN-T) projects for the period 2007-2013, giving priority to cross-border projects and environmentally friendly transportation modes, such as rail and inland waterways.

Latest IPCC Climate Change Report Urges Action   Nov 20, 2007
The U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently published its synthesis report summarising the main conclusions of the Fourth Assessment Report, its scientific assessment of climate change.

International Carbon Action Partnership Formed to Reduce Global Warming  Nov 7, 2007
A coalition of European countries, U.S. states, Canadian provinces, New Zealand and Norway announced the launch of the International Carbon Action Partnership (ICAP) to fight global warming.

FAQ on Europe's Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive  Nov 7, 2007
The European Union (EU) directive on Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) was adopted in 1996 and transposed into national legislation of member states three years later.

Frost: Building Directive Implementation to Result in Reduced GHG Emissions, Greater Energy Efficiency  Oct 31, 2007
According to Frost & Sullivan, the European Union (EU) is aiming to tackle global warming, as well as increased energy import dependency and concerns over the worldwide supplies of fossil fuels, as part of a new focus on climate change.

EC Finalizes National Allocation Plans on Emissions Trading for 2008-2012  Oct 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently adopted decisions on the last three proposed national plans for allocating carbon dioxide (CO2) emission allowances under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) for the second trading period from 2008 to 2012.

EU Emissions Trading Scheme Links to More Countries   Oct 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) reached an agreement with three countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) on linking their respective emissions trading systems with the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS).

EC Seeks to Postpone Legislation on Electromagnetic Fields  Oct 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed postponing for four years the deadline for introducing legislation on workers' exposure to electromagnetic fields, which could affect the use of technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

EC Starts Legal Action for RoHS/WEEE Violations  Oct 19, 2007
The European Commission (EC) is taking legal action against eight member states for not properly transposing European Union (EU) legislation to tackle electrical and electronic equipment waste and the hazardous substances contained in such products.

EC Proposals Promote Hydrogen Cars  Oct 12, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently adopted two proposals advancing the development and marketing of clean and safe hydrogen-fueled vehicles.

FAQ on EC's Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Technology Initiative  Oct 12, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted a proposal for a Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Technology Initiative, an ambitious, public-private partnership programme of research, technology development and demonstration activities.

EC to Help Smaller Companies Become Greener  Oct 9, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently published a communication aimed at helping small and medium-sized companies use energy and resources more efficiently.

EC Plans Directive on Renewable Energy  Oct 2, 2007
The European Commission (EC) plans to propose a framework directive in early December with measures to reach a binding target for renewable energy sources. A target of 20% of Europe's energy consumption by 2020 for renewables was agreed to by the European Council in March.

EC Proposes New Legislation for European Energy Policy  Sep 21, 207
The European Commission (EC) recently adopted a third package of legislative proposals for the new Energy Policy for Europe, aimed at ensuring a real and effective choice of supplier and benefits for all European Union (EU) citizens.

New Forum Established for Sustainable Nuclear Energy Research  Sep 21, 2007
A sustainable nuclear energy technology platform was launched at a Brussels conference on Sep. 21, with participants from the European Commission (EC) and the French Atomic Energy Commission.

EC Proposes Global Alliance to Help Developing Countries With Climate Change Effects  Sep 18, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed to build a new alliance on climate change between the European Union (EU) and poor developing countries that are most affected by, and have the least capacity to deal with, climate change.

EC Appoints Coordinators for Key European Energy Projects  Sep 14, 2007
The European Commission (EC) appointed four project coordinators in the field of energy to monitor and facilitate the implementation of several priority projects.

EC Adopts Decision on Danish National Plan for Allocating CO2  Aug 31, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted the decision on the proposed Danish national plan for allocating CO2 emission allowances for the 2008-2012 trading period of the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS).

Frost: Global Focus on Reducing Vehicle Emissions Boosts Market for LPG/CNG Vehicles, Conversion Kits  Jun 4, 2007
As concerns over global warming continue to increase, the automotive industry is facing tremendous pressure to reduce vehicle emissions, such as nitrous oxide (NOx), carbon dioxide (CO2) and particulate matter (PM), because of the harmful effects these gases have on the environment.

EC Reports More Innovation Needed to Help Environment  May 4, 2007
The European Commission (EC) published a report about trends and developments in eco-innovation in the European Union (EU).

IPCC Report Confirms EU Call for Deep Cuts in Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions  May 4, 2007
Following the May 4 release of a report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the European Commission (EC) called on developed and advanced developing countries to commit to substantially reducing their greenhouse gas emissions over the coming decades to mitigate global warming.

EC Details Reviews of its Environmental Protection Programmes  May 4, 2007
This document details recent reviews by the European Commission (EC) of the Sixth Environment Action Programme (6EAP) and the 2006 Environment Policy Review, both of which show that the European Union (EU) is on track with its environmental policy measures.

EC Reports its Environmental Protection Programmes on Track  May 4, 2007
According to the mid-term review by the European Commission (EC) of the Sixth Environment Action Programme (6EAP), the European Union (EU) is on track with the policy measures outlined in that programme.

EC Launches Public Consultation on Biofuels  May 2, 2007
The European Commission (EC) launched a public consultation on the biofuels issues in the new European Union (EU) legislation promoting renewable energy.

FAQ on European Environmental Liability Directive  Apr 27, 2007
This document provides background information and answers common questions about the environmental liability directive that the European Union (EU) will begin enforcing when the new legislation becomes effective on April 30.

EC Readies for Environmental Liability Directive to Ensure Polluters Pay  Apr 27, 2007
Important European Union (EU) legislation laying down liability rules for damage to the environment will become effective on April 30.

NSF Int'l, CARSO-LSEHL Sign Cooperative Agreement  Mar 28, 2007
NSF International and CARSO-Laboratoire Santé et Environnement Hygiène de Lyon (LSEHL) entered into a first-of-a-kind agreement to offer testing services for the French Attestation de Conformité Sanitaire (ACS) registration.

Frost: EU Directives, Tech Advancements Drive Euro Water, Wastewater Sector   Mar 14, 2007
European Union (EU) legislation is the most important driver in the automation and control solutions market for the European water and wastewater sector.

EU Cites Importance of Integrated Climate Control and Energy Policy  Mar 13, 2007
A recent report by the president of the European Parliament summarizing the current status of the European Union (EU) cites energy policy and climate change as priorities, along with economics, better regulation, employment, the internal market, innovation and research (see DOC/07/1).

Europeans Support Greater EU Action on Energy, Climate Change  Mar 6, 2007
According to a recent Eurobarometer opinion survey, the overwhelming majority of European Union (EU) citizens are concerned about climate change.

EC Urges Negotiations on Post-Kyoto Global Warming Agreement  Feb 16, 2007
The European Commission (EC) called for the international community to urgently begin negotiations on a comprehensive new global climate change treaty that would succeed the Kyoto Protocol when its targets expire in 2012.

FAQ on EU's Response to Climate Change Problem  Feb 16, 2007
What is the problem? Climate change is happening.

U.S., EU Sign Pact on Common Environmental Challenges, Sharing Information  Feb 14, 2007
U.S. and EU scientists and researchers plan to work more closely in solving common environmental problems and sharing information on emerging issues such as nanotechnology under a new agreement.

EC Report on Global Warming Underlines Need for Urgent Action  Feb 2, 2007
The European Commission (EC) called for an urgent start to international negotiations on a comprehensive new global climate change agreement, following the recent publication of alarming scientific evidence by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

EC Promotes Renewable Energy in Future Energy Roadmap  Jan 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently proposed a long-term renewable energy roadmap as part of its new energy policy for Europe.

EC Energy Plan Targets Cleaner Coal  Jan 26, 2007
As part of its new energy policy for Europe, the European Commission (EC) adopted a communication on how to generate power from fossil fuels in a sustainable manner, with a focus on sustainable coal technologies - technologies that will enablmise coal to maintain its important contribution to secure and competitive energy supplies for Europe.

EC Decides on New Allocation Plans for Emissions Trading Scheme  Jan 17, 2007
The European Commission (EC) decided on two more national plans for allocating CO2 emission allowances for the 2008-2012 trading period under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS).

EC Proposes Integrated Energy and Climate Change Legislative Package  Jan 12, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed a comprehensive package of measures to establish a new energy policy for Europe to combat climate change and boost the energy security and competitiveness of the European Union (EU).

EC Proposes Strategic Energy Technology Plan  Jan 12, 2007
The European Commission (EC) will invest approximately €1 billion annually between 2007 and 2013 in energy technology research and innovation as part of the first European Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

EC Unveils its Energy Efficiency Action Plan to Save 20% by 2020  Jan 12, 2007
As a major step toward meeting the unprecedented energy challenges facing Europe, the European Commission (EC) presented its Energy Efficiency Action Plan in October 2006.

Europe Outpaces U.S. on Chemical Safety  Jan 9, 2007
New, stricter European environmental policies may force even U.S.-based electronics and chemicals companies to change their ways, say policy analysts at Brown University and Boston University.

EC Publishes 'Appliances Burning Gaseous Fuels' Harmonised Standards References  Jan 5, 2007
The European Commission released a summary list of titles and references of harmonised standards for appliances burning gaseous fuels under Directive CD 90/396/EEC.

Agreement Reached on New EU Chemicals Regulation (REACH)  Jan 2, 2007
The Environment Council of the European Commission (EC) unanimously adopted on Dec. 18 the REACH (registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals) regulation, the cornerstone of the new European chemicals policy (3664/06) that replaces around 40 legislative instruments currently in force.

European Environment Council Takes Action on Chemicals, Climate Change, Marine Protection  Jan 2, 2007
The Environment Council of the European Commission (EC) adopted the new regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restrictions of chemicals (REACH) on Dec. 18. REACH, a single European Union (EU) regulatory system for chemical substances, will improve the protection of citizens' health and the environment.

EU, U.S. Sign New Agreement on Energy Efficiency of Office Equipment  Jan 2, 2007
The European Union (EU) and the U.S. signed a new agreement to continue the Energy Star programme for office equipment for another five years.

Rail

Frost: Environmental Awareness Fosters Euro Acceptance of Light Rail, Underground Transport   Jun 13, 2008
Despite many challenges, the European market for light rail and underground transportation is set to develop, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EC Adopts Interoperability Legislation for European Trains  May 23, 2008
On April 23, the European Commission (EC) adopted an amendment to the European standard for train signaling and speed control - the European Train Control System (ETCS) - which guarantees a common standard that enables trains to cross national borders and enhances rail safety.

EC Adopts Guidelines for State Aid to Rail Undertakings  May 22, 2008
The European Commission (EC) adopted new guidelines for state aid to railway undertakings that clarify the rules governing public funding of these businesses in the European Union (EU).

EC Issues Call for Proposals Supporting Private Freight Transport Services  Feb 5, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently published the second call for proposals for the creation and upgrade of freight transport services under the second Marco Polo programme.

EC Publishes Draft Guidelines on State Aid to Railway Undertakings  Dec 26, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently published draft guidelines on state aid to railway undertakings, which are now open for consultation by member states and stakeholders. The EC aims to adopt these European Community guidelines during the first semester of 2008.

FAQ on Freight Transport in Europe  Oct 18, 2007
Why is the European Union involved in freight transport? Since freight transport is so often a cross-border activity, concerted action at the European level will obviously greatly increase the chances of success.

EC Adopts New Initiatives to Improve Freight Transport in Europe  Oct 18, 2007
The European Commission (EC) adopted a series of initiatives aimed at making freight transport in the European Union (EU) more efficient and sustainable.

Euro Standards Organizations Sign MOU with European Railways Association  May 25, 2007
The heads of the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the European Railway Agency (ERA).

Kapsch CarrierCom Awards Nortel Wireless Contract for Austrian Railways  Apr 26, 2007
Austrian Railways (ÖBB) selected Kapsch CarrierCom AG and Nortel to deploy a national network that is touted as delivering vital uninterrupted communications for staff working on trains and ground-based operations.

Reseau Ferre de France Selects Nortel as GSM-R Supplier  Apr 20, 2007
Réseau Ferré de France (RFF) selected Nortel as the exclusive supplier of telecommunications equipment for its national railway network under a public-private partnership (PPP).

European Rail Freight Services Open to Competition  Jan 2, 2007
As of Jan. 1, 2007, all European Union (EU) rail freight lines were opened up to competition, as part of a long-standing plan to revitalise the rail industry in the European Community.

Miscellaneous

EC FAQ on Nanotechnologies  Jun 18, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about nanotechnologies, a rapidly growing field for which the European Commission (EC) announced plans to start a public consultation (see press release IP/08/947).

EC Calls for Public Dialogue on Nanotechnologies  Jun 18, 2008
The European Commission (EC) plans to start a public consultation on nanotechnologies to increase knowledge and awareness about this field's potential, as well as to ensure adequate protection of the environment and human health from this growing technology.

EC Releases Report on Safety in Toy Supply Chain  Jun 6, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently released a report by independent experts on toy safety as a follow-up to the EC's product safety stocktaking review last autumn.

FAQ on Safety Measures in Toy Supply Chain  Jun 6, 2008
Answers to frequently asked questions about the toy safety report released by the European Commission (EC) on June 5 are provided below. This report analyzed product safety measures in the toy supply chain.

FAQ on EU-China Product Safety Measures  Jun 6, 2008
Meglena Kuneva, European Commission (EC) commissioner for consumers, will visit the People's Republic of China and Hong Kong on June 9-13, primarily to assess progress on the commitments to strengthen product safety controls between China and the European Union (EU) that were made during her visit in July 2007.

FAQ on EC's Upcoming Toy Safety Plans  May 30, 3008
Meglena Kuneva, European Commission (EC) commissioner for consumers, recently visited the Lego toy company in Billund, (Denmark) to discuss the important role of industry in ensuring toy safety. This document answers some questions about this visit and the EC's upcoming plans for toy safety.

More Toys, Other Dangerous Products Being Detected in Europe  May 29, 2008
The number of dangerous products removed from the European Union (EU) market rose by 53% in 2007, according to the latest annual report of the European Commission (EC) on the Rapid Alert System (RAPEX).

EC Proposes Car Safety Legislative Package  May 28, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently proposed a package of vehicle safety measures that will replace more than 150 existing directives with a single regulation that is directly applicable in the European Union (EU) and refers to harmonised United Nations standards.

EU Moves to Greener, Safer, Smarter Road Transport System  May 28, 2008
The Transport Research Arena 2008 Conference and Expo began on April 21, bringing together over 1,000 senior executives from the European Union (EU) road transport industries, national and EU administrations, infrastructures operators, public and private R&D organisations and users' associations.

Market Surveillance of Electrical Appliances Improves Safety for European Consumers  May 23, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently received the final reports from market surveillance projects aimed at enhancing the safety of two types of consumer electrical products: portable household lights and cord extension sets.

Frost: Euro Fire Suppression Systems Market Shows Resilient Growth  May 23, 2008
The European fire suppression systems market continues to expand, with sound underlying drivers ensuring its healthy growth well into the long term.

EC Adds DVB-H to List of Official Standards  Mar 18, 2008
On March 17, the European Commission (EC) endorsed the addition of the Digital Video Broadcasting Handheld (DVB-H) standard to the European Union (EU) List of Standards, which serves as a basis for encouraging the harmonised provision of telecommunications across the EU.

EC Report Says Standardisation Can Boost Europe's Innovation, Competitiveness  Mar 12, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently published a new report called "Towards an increased contribution from standardisation to innovation in Europe."

FAQ on Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID)  Mar 6, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently launched a public consultation on privacy, data protection and information security issues involved in applications supported by radio frequency identification device (RFID) technology. The consultation will run until April 25.

FAQ on Safety of Magnetic Toys  Feb 29, 2008
On Feb. 28, the European Union (EU) approved a proposal by the European Commission (EC) requiring toys containing magnets to carry a mandatory warning label.

EU Requires Magnetic Toys to Carry Warning Label  Feb 29, 2008
A European Commission (EC) proposal requiring toys containing magnets to carry a mandatory warning label was approved by European Union (EU) member states on Feb. 28.

EC Launches ENIAC to Fund Industrial Research in Nanoelectronics  Feb 22, 2008
The European Commission (EC) formally launched ENIAC, a major joint technology initiative (JTI) on nanoelectronics, on Feb. 22. An unprecedented €3 billion will be invested in nanoelectronics with its launch.

EC Approves Ofcom Proposal to Deregulate Part of U.K. Broadband Market  Feb 15, 2008
The European Commission (EC) approved the proposal of the U.K. telecoms regulator Ofcom to deregulate the wholesale broadband market in some parts of that country, covering around 65% of all U.K. homes and businesses.

EC Adopts Code of Conduct for Nanotechnologies Research  Feb 8, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recommended that the European Union (EU) adopt a code of conduct to govern responsible research in the nanosciences and nanotechnologies (N&N) field.

EC Proposes Stricter Rules for Toy Safety  Jan 25, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed new legislation to improve toy safety in Europe that would replace and modernise the Toys directive 88/378/EEC of May 3, 1988.

White House Seeks Comments on Impact of U.S., EU Regulations on Int'l Trade, Investment  Dec 24, 2007
The U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Secretariat General of the European Commission (EC) called for public comment on a draft joint report addressing the impact of U.S. and European Union (EU) regulations on international trade and investment.

EU Reaches Agreement on Marine Strategy Directive  Dec 12, 2007
The European Parliament recently reached agreement with the European Union (EU) Council of Ministers on the text of a Marine Strategy Directive for the environmental protection of Europe's seas and oceans.

ISO: Supply Chain Management Standards to Reduce Risk of Terrorism, Piracy, Fraud  Dec 11, 2007
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 28000 series of standards on supply chain security management systems were upgraded from their status of Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) to international standards.

EC Proposes Legislation to Simplify European Defence Industry  Dec 6, 2007
On Dec. 5, the European Commission (EC) proposed a new directive on intra-EU transfers of defence products that aims to significantly simplify national licensing procedures, thereby facilitating cross-frontier commercial exchanges within the European Union (EU).

EC Proposes Legislation to Enhance Openness of European Defence Market  Dec 6, 2007
On Dec. 5, the European Commission (EC) proposed a new directive on defence procurement that will be applicable to arms, munitions and war material, as well as to certain sensitive non-military security equipments.

EC Proposes New Competitive Measures for Defence Market  Dec 6, 2007
The European Commission (EC) proposed a package of initiatives to improve and unify a fragmented European defence market.

Europe Aims for Nanotechnology Development Edge  Nov 21, 2007
As part of its commitment to nanotechnology research, the European Commission (EC) is sending representatives to the High-Level Conference on Nanotechnologies, to be held in Braga, Portugal from Nov. 21-23, and attended by top policy makers, scientists and industrialists interested in nanotechnology research in Europe.

EU Approves Electronic Stability Control for Trucks and Coaches  Nov 17, 2007
An agreement was reached at a recent United Nations meeting in Geneva to equip new vehicles with electronic stability control (ESC) systems. This move should greatly improve the safety of European-registered trucks and tourist coaches.

Frost: Euro Airport Security Equipment Market Sees Growth  Oct 11, 2007
The European airport security market looks set for robust growth, according to Frost & Sullivan, particularly in the wake of continued threats, new European Union (EU) airport security regulations, rising passenger traffic and the increasing need to upgrade installed security equipment and integrate it with newly implemented technology.

EC Report Underlines Financial Commitment to Nanotechnology  Sep 14, 2007
The European Commission (EC) recently released its first implementation report, covering the 2005 to 2007 period, for Europe's 2005 Action Plan for Nanotechnology.

Frost: Replacements, New Clinical Applications Boost Growth of MRI Systems   Aug 21, 2007
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most powerful and widely employed diagnostic tools by physicians today, despite increasing pricing pressures, regulatory issues and competition from computed tomography (CT) that need to be overcome in the European MRI systems market.

Frost: E. Europe Manufacturing Hotspot Spurs SMT Reflow Soldering Equipment Market   Aug 21, 2007
Due to the rise of Asian countries as global manufacturing hubs, the changing regional landscape of the electronics industry has forced equipment manufacturers to radically rethink their business strategies.

Frost: Euro Water, Wastewater Disinfection Systems Market Benefits from Quality Concerns  Aug 16, 2007
The water and wastewater disinfection systems market is one of the fastest growing in the overall European water industry.

Laboratorio Dr. Oliver Rodés, NSF Int'l Partner on Water Testing  Aug 14, 2007
Laboratorio Dr. Oliver Rodés (LDOR), a water testing laboratory located in Spain, signed an agreement with NSF International making LDOR an official NSF laboratory partner.

Ofcom Recommends VoIP Providers Offer Access to 999  Aug 3, 2007
The U.K. Office of Communications (Ofcom) published proposals to require certain types of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers to allow users to call 999 by early 2008.

ETSI Publishes New Generation DECT Standard - ETSI TR 102 570  May 25, 2007
The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) published the New Generation Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (NG DECT) standard.

ETSI, Open Grid Forum Sign Grid Standard MOU  May 24, 2007
The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) and the Open Grid Forum (OGF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance standardization efforts in grid computing and telecommunications.

IDC: Western European VoIP Applications Market to Exceed $2B by 2011  May 17, 2007
The European market for premise-based enterprise voice-over Internet protocol (VoIP) applications is expected to show high growth over the coming five years, according to IDC.

Frost: Joint Training Programs Boost Euro Military Synthetic Training, Simulation Markets  May 17, 2007
The need for joint military training exercises, allied with benefits of time and cost efficiencies, are boosting the European markets for military synthetic training and simulation.

Spectrum Key to Development of Mobile TV in Europe  Mar 27, 2007
Mobile network operators in Europe called for more spectrum to be made available for the provision of mobile television, echoing one of the findings in the final report of the European Mobile Broadcasting Council (EMBC), an initiative of the European Commission (EC).

EC Proposes European Strategy for Smart Radio Tags  Mar 16, 2007
After a year-long study, the European Commission (EC) unveiled its proposed European strategy for radio frequency identification (RFID).

EC Urges Creation of Proactive European Strategy for Mobile TV  Mar 16, 2007
Availability of service everywhere and anytime, attractive commercial offers, interoperability of devices, spectrum availability and light regulation on licences are all vital ingredients for boosting the demand for mobile TV in Europe, according to Viviane Reding, commissioner for information society and media for the European Commission (EC), speaking at the CeBIT IT Fair in Hannover, Germany on March 16.

EU Publishes Regulations in Bulgarian, Romanian  Mar 2, 2007
A provisional edition of European Union (EU) regulations translated into Bulgarian and Romanian has been made available by the Office for Official Publications of the European Communities (OPOCE).