European Union (EU) Standards & Regulatory News

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Aerospace

FAQ on EU-Canada Aviation Agreement   Dec 10, 2008
Answers to frequently asked questions about the comprehensive agreement on aviation services being negotiated in December between the European Union (EU) and Canada are found in this article.

EU, Canada Close to Comprehensive Aviation Agreement  Dec 10, 2008
On Dec. 9, representatives of the European Union (EU) and Canadian negotiating teams reported a breakthrough on a comprehensive agreement on aviation services in line with the conclusions of the EU-Canada summit on Oct. 17.

Details of Newly Launched SESAR Air Traffic Management System  Dec 10, 2008
This document provides background information on the SESAR Joint Undertaking, a public-private partnership in European air traffic management (ATM) research, which was inaugurated on Dec. 8.

SESAR Air Traffic Management Joint Undertaking Launched  Dec 10, 2008
The SESAR Joint Undertaking, a unique public-private partnership in air traffic management (ATM) research, was inaugurated on Dec. 8 in Brussels.

EC Holds Workshop on Body Scanners as Part of Aviation Security Efforts  Nov 7, 2008
On Nov. 6, the European Commission (EC) held a workshop on body scanners as a first step in addressing the impact of this equipment and aviation security measures on human rights, privacy, personal dignity, health and data protection.

FAQ on EU's New Framework for Air Services  Oct 31, 2008
A new European Union (EU) air transport regulation, effective Nov. 1, 2008, lays down common rules for the operation of air transport services in the European Community and changes present legislation (the "third air package," which comprises regulations (EEC) No 2407/92, 2408/92 and 2409/92).

EC Publishes Aviation Security Rules  Aug 15, 2008
On August 8, the European Commission (EC) decided to make the majority of rules relating to aviation security available to the public.

FAQ on Mobile Satellite Services in Europe  Aug 8, 2008
On Aug. 7, the European Commission (EC) launched a call for candidate operators of pan-European mobile satellite services, which will take place for the first time under a single EU-wide selection mechanism.

EP Votes to Include Aviation in Emissions Trading Scheme  Jul 10, 2008
On July 8, the European Parliament voted in favor of including aviation emissions in the European Union (EU) Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

EC Launches Procurement Phase for Galileo System   Jul 1, 2008
The European Commission (EC) and the European Space Agency (ESA) launched the procurement of the first complete constellation of Galileo, the European satellite radio navigation system.

FAQ on Single European Sky II  Jun 26, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about the second package of legislation for a Single European Sky (SES II), which the European Commission (EC) adopted on June 25.

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's Mercury Strategy  Dec 23, 2008
After the Dec. 22 announcement from the European Commission (EC) about a voluntary agreement to ensure the safe storage of surplus mercury from the European chlor-alkali industry, the EC published answers to frequently asked questions about the mercury strategy for the European Union (EU).

EC Welcomes Voluntary Agreement on Safe Storage of Mercury  Dec 23, 2008
The European Commission (EC) welcomed a voluntary agreement announced on Dec. 22 to ensure the safe storage of surplus mercury from the European chlor-alkali industry, once a ban on mercury exports from the European Union (EU) takes effect in 2011.

EC Regulation Reduces Standby Electricity Consumption  Dec 19, 2008
On Dec. 17, the European Commission (EC) adopted an ecodesign regulation to reduce the standby energy consumption of all household and office products.

EC's Fuel Quality Directive to be Amended   Dec 19, 2008
Part of the European Commission (EC) climate and energy package, which was accepted, as amended, by the European Parliament on Dec. 17, included new legislation on fuel quality.

EC Signs Toy Safety Agreement with Toy Retailers, Importers  Dec 19, 2008
As part of the drive by the European Commission (EC) to improve toy safety by engaging all players throughout the toy industry, Meglena Kuneva, EC commissioner for consumer affairs, signed an agreement with representatives of toy retailers and importers on Dec. 18.

European Parliament Adopts EC's New Toy Safety Rules  Dec 19, 2008
On Dec. 18, the European Parliament adopted a proposal by the European Commission (EC) to substantially strengthen rules on toy safety within the European Union (EU).

EC Advances Legislation on CO2 Emissions from New Cars  Dec 19, 2008
New legislation setting CO2 emissions standards for new passenger cars is part of the European Commission (EC) climate and energy package, which was accepted by the European Parliament on Dec. 17, after revisions to the EC's original proposal were made.

FAQ on EC's Directive on Geological Storage of Carbon Dioxide  Dec 19, 2008
A proposed directive on the geological storage of carbon dioxide (CO2), which was part of the European Commission (EC) climate and energy package, was accepted by the European Parliament on Dec. 17. This document answers frequently asked questions about that directive.

FAQ on Revised EU Emissions Trading Scheme  Dec 19, 2008
Substantial revisions to the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) were made as part of the climate and energy package proposed earlier this year by the European Commission (EC), as accepted by the European Parliament on Dec. 17. This document answers frequently asked questions about the changes to the ETS.

FAQ on EC's Effort-Sharing Decision on Greenhouse Gas Emissions  Dec 19, 2008
As part of the climate and energy package proposed earlier this year by the European Commission (EC) and accepted by the European Parliament on Dec. 17, plans were hammered out on how European Union (EU) member states would share efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This document answers frequently asked questions about these plans.

EC's Climate, Energy Package Accepted by European Parliament  Dec 19, 2008
On Dec. 17, the European Parliament voted to accept an amended version of the climate and energy package proposed earlier this year by the European Commission (EC). The vote finalized a deal that will help the European Union (EU) increase energy security and transform itself into a low-carbon economy.

EC Welcomes Creation of New Electricity Organization, ENTSO-E  Dec 19, 2008
The 42 European transmission system operators (TSOs) responsible for running the highest voltage interconnected electricity grid in the European Union (EU) signed an agreement on Dec. 19 to establish a new organization: the European Network of Transmission System Operators forElectricity (ENTSO-E).

EC Advances Proposal to Reduce Vehicle NOx Emissions in 2012  Dec 16, 2008
On Dec. 16, the European Parliament (EP) voted to support the proposal by the European Commission (EC) to reduce, starting in 2012, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from trucks and busses by 80% and particulate matter by 66%.

EC Welcomes Results of U.N. Climate Change Conference  Dec 16, 2008
The European Commission (EC) welcomed the results of the United Nations climate changeconference, which ended on Dec. 13 in Poznań, Poland. The results furthered the international process to conclude a new global climate agreement in Copenhagen next year.

FAQ on EU-Funded Environmental Protection Research  Dec 12, 1008
As part of its commitment to fighting climate change and reducing CO2 emissions, the European Union (EU) released this paper describing examples of its environmental protection research projects.

EU Experts Approve Phase-out of Incandescent Bulbs  Dec 10, 2008
At the Dec. 8 meeting of the European Union (EU) Eco-design Regulatory Committee, experts from EU member states endorsed proposals from the European Commission (EC) for a regulation to progressively phase out incandescent light bulbs starting in 2009 and finishing at the end of 2012.

Capgemini Launches 10th Edition of Euro Energy Markets Observatory (EEMO) Report  Dec 8, 2008
According to Capgemini's European Energy Markets Observatory (EEMO) report, a €1 trillion infrastructure investment is required to build the plants, electrical lines and gas pipelines needed in Europe over the next 25 years.

EC, Egypt Sign Energy Agreement  Dec 5, 2008
The European Commission (EC) and the Arab Republic of Egypt signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance energy cooperation between Egypt and the European Union (EU).

EU Energy Council Meeting Covers Energy Security, Technology, Efficiency, Int'l Relations  Dec 5, 2008
Topics for the European Union (EU) Energy Council meeting on Dec. 8 include the proposed Renewable Energy Directive, Eco-design Directive, European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan and the second Strategic Energy Review.

EU Environment Council Meeting Covers Energy, Pollution, GMOs   Dec 5, 2008
Topics for the European Union (EU) Environment Council meeting on Dec. 4-5 include the EU's climate change and energy package and its proposal on CO2 emissions from new cars.

EC Proposes Law to Limit Harmful Vapor Emissions from Service Stations  Dec 5, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed new legislation to ensure that harmful gasoline vapors that escape during the refueling of cars at service stations are captured and recycled.

FAQ on Revised Directive on Waste Electrical, Electronic Equipment   
Answers to frequently asked questions about Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), which the European Commission (EC) proposed on Dec. 3 to revise, are provided below.

FAQ on Revised Directive on Restrictions on Dangerous Substances in Electrical, Electronic Equipment  Dec 5, 2008
Answers to frequently asked questions about Directive 2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment, which the European Commission (EC) proposed on Dec. 3 to revise, are provided below.

EC Proposes Revising Environmental Laws on Electrical, Electronic Equipment   Dec 5, 2008
On Dec. 3, the European Commission (EC) proposed revising Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment (the "WEEE Directive") and Directive 2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (the "RoHS Directive").

EU Approves Global Rules for Labeling of Chemicals  Dec 2, 2008
The European Commission (EC) welcomed the agreement by the European Union (EU) member states for a new regulation to align EU legislation on the classification, labeling and packaging of hazardous chemical substances and mixtures to the United Nations Globally Harmonised System (GHS).

EWEA: Nat'l Intelligence Council Report Identifies Wind Energy as 'Secure Source of Green Electricity'  Nov 29, 2008
The European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) concurs with the National Intelligence Council (NIC) report, Global Trends 2025: A Transformed World, which said wind power could provide a secure source of green electricity while the world transitions away from oil dependency.

EC Opens German Electricity Market to Competition  Nov 28, 2008
On Nov. 26, the European Commission (EC) closed its antitrust case against Germany's E.ON AG, one of the world's leading energy companies, when it formally accepted the company's commitment to sell one-fifth of its power-generation capacity, along with its extra-high voltage distribution network.

FAQ on EU's Response to Climate Change  Nov 28, 2008
On the eve of the United Nations (U.N.) Climate Change Conference in Poznań, Poland, to be held Dec. 1-12, the European Union (EU) published answers to frequently asked questions about climate change and its response to this growing problem.

EU Plans for Accelerated Action at U.N. Climate Change Conference  Nov 28, 2008
The European Union (EU) said it will accelerate international negotiations on a new global climate change treaty and press for progress on a range of issues at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poznań, Poland, on Dec. 1-12.

EC Talks With Ukraine, Moldova About Accession to Energy Community  Nov 28, 2008
A European Commission (EC) negotiating team held a first round of successful negotiation talks with representatives of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova concerning their accession to the Energy Community Treaty.

EC Proposes Revised Nuclear Safety Directive   Nov 26, 2008
On Nov. 26, the European Commission (EC) adopted a proposal to revise the Nuclear Safety Directive. The revised directive defines basic obligations and general principles for the safety of nuclear installations in the European Union (EU) while enhancing the role of national regulatory bodies.

FAQ on EC's Revised Nuclear Safety Directive  Nov 26, 2008
In the context of the revised Nuclear Safety Directive proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Nov. 26, frequently asked questions about the nuclear safety efforts of the European Union (EU) are answered in this document.

EC Promotes Use of Biofuels at International Conference  Nov 21, 2008
Andris Piebalgs, European Commission (EC) energy commissioner, emphasized the potential benefits of international cooperation on biofuels, speaking at the International Biofuels Conference taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil, from Nov. 17-20.

Europe, Brazil Deepen Energy Relations   Nov 21, 2008
Andris Piebalgs, European Commission (EC) energy commissioner and Edison Lobão, Brazil's mines and energy minister, met on Nov. 20 in São Paulo to discuss bilateral energy cooperation.

EC Seeks to Improve Implementation of Environmental Law  Nov 20, 2008
On Nov. 18, the European Commission (EC) issued a communication outlining plans to improve the implementation of the 200 or so European Union (EU) laws on environmental protection.

EU's Energy Security Package Emphasizes Energy Efficiency  Nov 14, 2008
This document details the energy efficiency components of the new European Union (EU) energy security package proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Nov. 13.

EC Proposes New Cogeneration Guidelines  Nov 14, 008
As part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package, the European Commission (EC) adopted detailed cogeneration guidelines that clarify the procedures and definitions for a harmonized methodology to determine the quantity of electricity generated from cogeneration.

EC Proposes New Energy Security, Efficiency Package  Nov 14, 2008
On Nov. 13, the European Commission (EC) proposed a wide-ranging energy package that gives a new boost to energy security in Europe, supporting earlier "20-20-20" climate change proposals. The package should be agreed upon by December.

EC Publishes Green Paper on European Energy Networks  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) published a green paper on energy networks in the European Union (EU) as part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package.

FAQ on EU Energy Security and Solidarity Action Plan  Nov 14, 2008,
This document answers frequently asked questions about the new European Union (EU) energy security package proposed by the European Commission (EC) on Nov. 13.

EC Publishes Communication on Offshore Wind Energy  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) published a new communication on offshore wind energy in the European Union (EU) as part of its wide-ranging Nov. 13 energy security package.

EC Makes Plans to Safeguard Security of Natural Gas Supply  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) published a new communication on natural gas supply in the European Union (EU) as part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package.

EC Proposes Extending Scope of Energy Labelling Directive  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed revising the Energy Labelling Directive (directive 92/75/EEC) as part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package.

EC Proposes Revising Energy Performance of Buildings Directive  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed revising the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (directive 2002/91/EC) as part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package for the European Union (EU).

EC Updates Illustrative Nuclear Program  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) updated its 2007 Illustrative Nuclear Programme (PINC) as part of the comprehensive European Union (EU) energy security package the EC proposed on Nov. 13.

EC Proposes Revising Emergency Oil Stocks Legislation  Nov 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed revising the strategic oil stocks legislation for the European Union (EU) as part of its comprehensive Nov. 13 energy security package.

FAQ on Europe's Eco-management and Audit Scheme  Nov 13, 2008
The European Commission (EC) finished the pilot project phase of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) across the European Union (EU). This document evaluates progress in this phase and provides answers to frequently asked questions about EMAS.

EC Underlines Strategic Role of Azerbaijan in European Energy Security  Nov 7, 2008
Representatives of the European Commission (EC) and the Azerbaijan government met on Nov. 7 to discuss ways to enhance their energy alliance.

European Nuclear Energy Forum Holds Third Meeting  Nov 5, 2008
The third plenary session of the European Nuclear Energy Forum (ENEF) opened on Nov. 3 in Bratislava, where high-ranking participants from relevant stakeholders met to discuss risks and opportunities involved with nuclear energy.

EU Research Institutes Launch Alliance to Foster Green Energy Technology  Oct 29, 2008
On Oct. 28, leading research institutes in the European Union (EU) launched the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA), a new initiative to foster alternative energy technologies by expanding and optimizing EU energy research capabilities through the sharing of world-class national facilities and the joint realization of national and European programs.

EC Launches Citizens' Energy Forum  Oct 29, 2008
On Oct. 28, the European Commission (EC) held the inaugural meeting of a new Citizens' Energy Forum, a platform designed to implement and enforce consumer rights in the energy market across the European Union (EU).

FAQ on EU's Strategic Energy Technology Plan  Oct 29, 2008
Facing the challenge of making the European energy system more sustainable and secure, on Nov. 22, 2007, the European Union (EU) adopted a proposal for a European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan. This document answers frequently asked questions about the plan, which has now been in operation for almost a year.

EC Says Renewable Energy, Innovation Key for Successful Cohesion Policy in Italy  Oct 24, 2008
Danuta Hübner, the European Commission (EC) commissioner for regional policy, plans to visit Perugia and Umbria in central Italy on Oct. 24 to hold talks with regional government and socio-economic partners and to see projects co-funded by the European Union (EU) Cohesion Policy.

Projections Show EU on Track to Meet Kyoto Protocol Emission Targets  Oct 21, 2008
A proposal by the European Commission (EC) to revise the Eco-design Directive (directive 2005/32/EC) to improve the energy efficiency performance of external power supplies was endorsed by European Union (EU) member states at a meeting of the Eco-design Regulatory Committee on Oct. 17.

EU Endorses Proposal to Improve Energy Performance of External Power Supplies  Oct 21, 2008
A proposal by the European Commission (EC) to revise the Eco-design Directive (directive 2005/32/EC) to improve the energy efficiency performance of external power supplies was endorsed by European Union (EU) member states at a meeting of the Eco-design Regulatory Committee on Oct. 17.

EC Underlines Need to Reinforce Nuclear Safety Rules  Oct 15, 208
The European Commission (EC) emphasized the need for a higher level of nuclear safety throughout the European Union (EU) at the fifth meeting of the High Level Group (HLG) on Nuclear Safety and Waste Management on Oct. 15.

FAQ on EU Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking  Oct 14, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Technology Initiative (JTI), a partnership of both the European Community and industry that was officially launched at the first stakeholders' general assembly in Brussels on Oct. 14.

EU Launches €1B Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Undertaking  Oct 14, 2008
On Oct. 14, the European Union (EU) and European industry announced plans to make fuel cells and hydrogen energy one of Europe's leading new strategic energy technologies of the future.

EC Endorses France's €68M R&D Aid to Hydrogen Energy Program  Oct 9, 2008
The European Commission (EC) endorsed €68 million in aid that France plans to grant for the development of a hydrogen energy chain known as the H2E program.

EU Endorses Proposals to Reduce Electricity Consumption  Sep 30, 2008
European Commission (EC) proposals for two new regulations aimed at reducing electricity consumption in Europe were endorsed by the European Union (EU) at the meeting of the EU Ecodesign Regulatory Committee on Sept. 26.

DIN Publishes Pre-standard on Lithium Batteries for Hybrid Vehicles  Sep 30, 2008
The Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V. (DIN) published a pre-standard on lithium batteries for hybrid vehicles in August - DIN V VDE V 0510-11 (VDE V 0510-11), Safety requirements for secondary batteries and battery installations - Part 11: Safety requirements for secondary lithium batteries for hybrid vehicles and mobile applications.

New EU Legislation on Spent Batteries Goes into Effect  Sep 26, 2008
The revised Batteries Directive, directive 2006/66/EC, went into effect across the European Union (EU) on Sept. 26, the deadline for transposing it into national law by EU member states.

EU Adopts Legislation Banning Mercury Exports  Sep 25, 2008
On Sept. 25, the European Council of Ministers adopted European Commission (EC) legislation banning all exports of mercury from the European Union (EU).

EWEA: IEA Report on EU Climate Change, Energy Portfolio Presents Efficient, Sustainable, Affordable Future  Sep 19, 2008
The International Energy Agency's (IEA) recent report on the European Union (EU) climate change and energy portfolio recognizes that the EU 27 member states have chosen a more efficient, sustainable and affordable future, said the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA).

EC Calls for Carbon Capture, Storage Network  Sep 12, 2008
The European Commission (EC) announced plans to establish a network of projects to demonstrate the use of carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) technology in power plants.

Europeans Show Strong Support for Climate Change Targets   Sep 12, 2008
Results of a special Eurobarometer survey of public attitudes about climate change commissioned by the European Parliament (EP) and the European Commission (EC) were published on Sept. 11.

IEA: EU Leading Climate Change, Energy Policies, Needs to Increase Energy R&D Funding  Sep 11, 2008
The International Energy Agency (IEA) reviewed the energy policies of the European Union (EU) that shape the energy use of almost 500 million citizens in 27 EU member countries.

European Parliament Supports Hydrogen Cars  Sep 3, 2008
A proposal by the European Commission (EC) to simplify the approval of hydrogen-powered vehicles across the European Union (EU) was supported by a vote of the European Parliament on Sept. 3.

Belgium Alerts EC About Release of Radioactive Iodine  Aug 29, 2008
On August 28, Belgium sent an alert concerning a radiological incident, classified at level 3 on the International Nuclear Event Scale, at the Institut National de Radio-éléments in Fleurus.

EC Approves Electrical Utilities Joint Venture for Central Western Europe  Aug 15, 2008
The European Commission (EC) approved the creation of a joint venture, Capacity Allocation Service Company (CASC), to provide cross-border electrical capacity allocation services to the interconnectors in Central Western Europe.

Frost: Geothermal Projects Take Shape in Europe   Aug 18, 2008
In the race to find alternative energy sources, geothermal energy is gaining favor, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EU to Connect with U.N. Carbon Credit Registry  Aug 6, 2008
The European Commission (EC) announced that the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat successfully completed all the testing required for connecting to the U.N. international carbon credit registry.

EC to Revise Regulation on Ozone-Depleting Substances  Aug 4, 2008
On Aug. 1, the European Commission (EC) proposed revising the current legislation on the protection of the ozone layer - regulation (EC) No. 2037/2000.

EC Launches Consultation on New Climate Change Agreement  Aug 4, 2008
The European Commission (EC) launched a public consultation on the approach the European Union (EU) should take on a new global climate change agreement.

IPC Survey Reveals Electronics Industry Unprepared for REACH  Aug 4, 2008
More than 40% of manufacturing and purchasing personnel do not understand the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation as it affects their companies, according to a survey by IPC - Association Connecting Electronics Industries.

Euro Wind Technology Platform Publishes Strategic Research Agenda  Jul 29, 2008
In its Strategic Research Agenda (SRA), the European Wind Energy Technology Platform (TPWind) presents an ambitious vision in which over a quarter of EU electricity could be provided by wind in 2030.

Frost: Euro Hazardous Waste Management a Growing Market   Jul 28, 2008
In 2007, the amount of hazardous waste collected and treated in Europe reached 67.6 million metric tons, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EC Launches Consultation on Energy Biomass Requirements  Jul 25, 2008
The European Commission (EC) launched a consultation on July 16 to determine the requirements for a sustainable scheme to use biomass, other than biofuels and bioliquids, for energy purposes.

EU Urged to Take Leadership Role on Climate Change  Jul 23, 2008
In its July 9-10 plenary session, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) of the European Union (EU) adopted a first series of opinions on the climate change and energy package presented by the European Commission (EC) on Jan. 23.

EC Welcomes State Aid for Norwegian CO2 Capture Project  Jul 23, 2008
The EFTA Surveillance Authority voted not to raise objections to the Norwegian government's investment in a project to test different technologies to reduce the costs and risks of large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS).

FAQ on EC's Proposed Revision to Eco-Label Scheme   Jul 17, 2008
As part of a legislative package on sustainability presented by the European Commission (EC) on July 16, the EC proposed extending the Eco-label scheme to cover a wider range of products and services, plus making it less costly and bureaucratic to operate.

FAQ on EC's Proposed Revision to Eco-Management and Audit Scheme  Jul 17, 2008
As part of a legislative package on sustainability presented by the European Commission (EC) on July 16, the EC proposed revising the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) to increase its uptake by making participation less costly and involving organizations outside the European Union (EU).

FAQ on EC's Green Public Procurement  Jul 17, 2008
The European Commission (EC) issued a communication on green public procurement as part of the package of measures in the Sustainable Production and Consumption and Sustainable Industrial Policy Action Plan it proposed on July 16.

EC Proposes Action Plan for Sustainable Production, Consumption  Jul 17, 2008
In conjunction with a legislative package proposed on July 16, the European Commission (EC) presented an action plan to improve the environmental performance and energy efficiency of products and to stimulate the demand for more sustainable goods and production technologies in the European Union (EU).

EC Proposes Legislation Promoting Sustainable Products, Technologies  Jul 17, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed a legislative package on July 16 aimed at improving the environmental performance and energy efficiency of products in the European Union (EU) and stimulating their market uptake.

EC Issues Opinion on Slovak Nuclear Power Plant in Mochovce  Jul 17, 2008
On July 15, the European Commission (EC) issued its opinion on completing units 3 and 4 of the Mochovce nuclear power plant in the Slovak Republic.

Frost: Reduced Energy Goals Push Growth in Euro Green Buildings Market   Jul 15, 2008
With all the European Union (EU) member states looking to reduce their energy consumption, new programs such as the Green Building Programme and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) are expected to help the EU save approximately 75% of its energy by the end of 2020, according to Frost & Sullivan.

EC Requests Compliance Information on PM10 Pollution  Jul 10, 2008
The European Commission (EC) is checking up on action taken by European Union (EU) member states to comply with the EU's ambient air quality standard for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10.

FAQ on EC's New Green Transport Package  Jul 10, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about the new package of "greening transport" initiatives, which the European Commission (EC) proposed on July 8.

EC Adopts New Green Transport Package   Jul 10, 2008
On July 8, the European Commission (EC) proposed a package of new "greening transport" initiatives to steer transport towards sustainability.

Frost: Inverter Market Jumps to 3B by 2014   Jul 9, 2008
Backed by solid growth in its solar energy industry, Spain will move to the forefront of the European inverter market for renewable energy systems.

EC Publishes Survey on Radioactive Waste  Jul 3, 208
A large majority of European Union (EU) citizens support the implementation of nuclear waste disposal facilities and the development of a more common Europe-wide approach in this field.

EC Adopts Environment Policy Review  Jul 3, 2008
The European Commission (EC) adopted its 2007 Environment Policy Review on July 2, noting that it has delivered almost all its main commitments under the 6th Environment Action Programme.

EC Starts Court Action on Environmental Liability Failings   Jun 28, 2008
The European Commission (EC) referred nine European Union (EU) member states to the European Court of Justice for failing to transpose the Environmental Liability Directive into domestic law.

More Integration of European Electricity Markets  Jun 28, 2008
The European Commission (EC) announced that representatives from seven countries in southeast Europe agreed to set up common electricity power capacity and congestion management rules in an move towards creating a regional electricity market.

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

ADIF Selects Nortel to Provide GSM-Railway Communications in Spain  Dec 17, 2008
ADIF, Spain's national railway infrastructure company, selected Nortel Networks to implement, operate and maintain a Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway (GSM-R) radio communication solution on the Barcelona-Figueres high-speed line.

EC Proposes Regulation to Ensure More Competitive Rail Freight in Europe   Dec 12, 2008
On Dec. 11, the European Commission (EC) adopted a proposal for a regulation that would involve working with European Union (EU) member states to designate international rail corridors, thereby providing operators with an efficient, high-quality freight transport infrastructure.

EC Reviews Marco Polo Freight Transport Program  Dec 10, 2008
The European Commission (EC) recently reviewed its second call for proposals, made in February this year, for the creation and upgrade of freight transport services under the second Marco Polo program.

EC Finances 11 Large Railway Projects  Dec 5, 2008
The European Commission (EC) approved 11 financing decisions worth over € 1.7 billion under the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) program for the period 2007-2013.

Roland Berger: Euro Rail Industry Expects Strong Growth into 2016  Sep 19, 2008
The European Rail Industry (UNIFE) will see strong growth patterns for the entire rail supply industry into 2016, according to a recent study conducted by Roland Berger and commissioned by UNIFE.

DIN Publishes New Safety Standard for Railway Vehicles  Sep 16, 2008
The Deutsches Institut für Normung e. V. (DIN) published in July a new European standard that will make rail travel safer: DIN EN 15227, Railway applications - Crashworthiness requirements for railway vehicle bodies.

Nortel Awarded GSM-R Contract for Algerian Wireless Railway Communications   Jul 22, 2008
Nortel was selected to provide wireless communications with its Global System for Mobile Communications - Railway (GSM-R) technology for two new railway lines in Algeria.

European Railway Traffic Management System Advances with New Agreement   Jul 10, 2008
On July 4, representatives from the European Commission (EC) and the rail industry signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) throughout Europe.

EC Cites Incorrect Implementation of First Railway Package  Jun 28, 2008
The European Commission (EC) sent letters of formal notice to 24 European Union (EU) member states on June 26 regarding their failure to properly implement the First Railway Package legislation.

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

FAQ on EU's Intelligent Transport Systems  Dec 16, 2008
Frequently asked questions about the European Union's intelligent transport systems (ITS), for which the European Commission (EC) adopted an action plan on Dec. 16, are answered below.

EC Adopts Action Plan for Intelligent Transport Systems  Dec 16, 2008
The European Commission (EC) took a major step towards the deployment and use of intelligent transport systems (ITS) by adopting an action plan on Dec. 16.

EC Issues Guidelines to Accelerate Mobile TV Services  Dec 10, 2008
On Dec. 10, the European Commission (EC) published guidelines for the authorization of mobile TV services to accelerate its roll-out across Europe, thereby taking a decisive step towards promoting competitive mobile TV in the European Union (EU).

EC Launches Debate on Bio-waste Management   Dec 5, 2008
On Dec. 3, the European Commission (EC) presented a "green paper" report on the management of bio-waste in the European Union (EU).

FAQ on EU's Product Safety Efforts  Nov 18, 2008
The first high-level trilateral summit on product safety was held on Nov. 17 with representatives of the European Union (EU), China and the U.S. The meeting coincided with EU's International Product Safety Week. This document answers frequently asked questions about recent EU's product safety work.

Joint Press Statement from EU-China-U.S. Product Safety Summit  N ov 18, 2008
Representatives of the European Union (EU), U.S. and China, who met in Brussels on Nov. 17 for the first high-level trilateral summit on product safety, issued a joint press statement.

First High-Level EU-China-U.S. Product Safety Summit Held   Nov 18, 2008
Representatives of the European Union (EU), U.S. and China met in Brussels on Nov. 17 for the first high-level trilateral summit on product safety, intended to step up cooperation among the three parties.

FAQ on EU's Product Safety Efforts  Nov 18, 2008
The first high-level trilateral summit on product safety was held on Nov. 17 with representatives of the European Union (EU), China and the U.S. The meeting coincided with EU's International Product Safety Week. This document answers frequently asked questions about recent EU's product safety work.

First High-Level EU-China-U.S. Product Safety Summit Held   Nov 18, 2008
Representatives of the European Union (EU), U.S. and China met in Brussels on Nov. 17 for the first high-level trilateral summit on product safety, intended to step up cooperation among the three parties.

Joint Press Statement from EU-China-U.S. Product Safety Summit  Nov 18, 2008
Representatives of the European Union (EU), U.S. and China, who met in Brussels on Nov. 17 for the first high-level trilateral summit on product safety, issued a joint press statement.

EU Celebrates 25 Years of Successful Intra-EU Trade  Nov 13, 2008
The European Union (EU) celebrated 25 years of free movement of goods across its member states, due in large measure to a tool that enables them to fight against unnecessary barriers to trade. That tool is the notification procedure under Directive 98/34/EC and its predecessor, Directive 83/189/EC.

EC Advances European Telecoms Reform  Nov 7, 2008
On Nov. 7, the European Commission (EC) published new legislative texts on the EU telecoms reform package to take account of the European Parliament (EP) vote of Sept. 24, 2008 and the ongoing discussions in the European Council of Ministers.

European Financial Reporting, Accounting Standards Updated  Nov 5, 2008
On Nov. 3, the European Commission (EC) adopted the consolidated text of all International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in force in the European Union (EU).

CARS 21 Conference Stresses Auto Industry Job Security, Green Cars  Oct 31, 2008
Stakeholders of the high-level group of the Competitive Automotive Regulatory System for the 21st Century (CARS 21) met in conference on Oct. 29 to discuss ways to foster a more competitive European car industry.

EU Gives Go-Ahead to Clean, Energy-Efficient Vehicles  Oct 24, 2008
The European Parliament (EP) voted on Oct. 22 to support a proposal by the European Commission (EC) to promote a broad market introduction of clean and energy-efficient vehicles through public procurement.

FAQ on EC's Proposed Revisions to E-Money Directive  Oct 14, 2008
This document answers frequently asked questions about the Oct. 13 proposal by the European Commission (EC) to revise current rules governing the issuance of electronic money in the European Union (EU).

EC Proposes Revisions to E-Money Directive  Oct 14, 2008
The European Commission (EC) proposed revising current rules governing the conditions for issuing electronic money in the European Union (EU).

FAQ on EC's Recommendation for Changes in Telecoms Article 7 Rules   Oct 15, 2008
On Oct. 15, the European Commission (EC) adopted a new recommendation on procedural rules for the European Union (EU) consultation mechanism, also known as the "Article 7 procedure," which allows national regulators to use a simplified and shortened standard form to notify the EC of certain decisions. This document answers frequently asked questions about this development.

Frost: Technological Innovations Expand Capabilities of Mass Spectrometers  Sep 30, 2008
The acceptance of mass spectrometric techniques in research institutions across Europe is being driven by their inherent advantages, according to Frost & Sullivan, such as increased accuracy and higher throughput ratio.

EU to Mandate Daytime Running Lights for New Vehicles  Sep 25, 2008
To increase road safety, the European Commission (EC) plans to introduce dedicated daytime running lights (DRL) on all new types of motor vehicles in the European Union (EU) from the year 2011 onwards.

New EU Rules on Pesticide Residues in Food Become Effective   Sep 3, 2008
A revised food safety regulation from the European Commission (EC) on allowable pesticide residues entered into force on September 1.

EP Begins Telecoms Rules Reform Debate on Important Issues  Sep 3, 2008
The European Parliament (EP) began debate on "telecoms reform" legislation for the European Union (EU) in a plenary session on Sept. 2.

European Parliament Supports Hydrogen Cars  Sep 3, 3008
A proposal by the European Commission (EC) to simplify the approval of hydrogen-powered vehicles across the European Union (EU) was supported by a vote of the European Parliament on Sept. 3.

EP Begins Telecoms Rules Reform Debate on Important Issues  Sep 3, 208
The European Parliament (EP) began debate on "telecoms reform" legislation for the European Union (EU) in a plenary session on Sept. 2.

DIN Updates Standard on Medical Device Labeling  Aug 29, 208
The Deutsches Institut für Normung e. V. (DIN) published a revised edition of standard DIN EN 980, Symbols for use in the labeling of medical devices.

EC Reserves Radio Frequency for Road Safety Use  Aug 6, 2008
On Aug. 5, the European Commission (EC) decided to reserve part of the radio spectrum for smart vehicle communications systems across Europe.

Frost: Modernization Drives Growth of Euro Land-Based ISTAR Vehicle Electronics Markets  Jul 22, 2008
The European land-based intelligence, surveillance, target acquisiti on and reconnaissance (ISTAR) vehicle electronics markets continue to witness good growth as countries across the region are actively undertaking programs to modernize their defense forces.

DVB Board Ratifies Specification for Second Generation DTT Transmission  Jul 22, 2008
The Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) Steering Board ratified and published the DVB-T2 specification, which is a second generation transmission system for digital terrestrial television.

Frost: Powertrain, Transmission Tech, Safety Demands Promise Growth for Euro Electronic Controllers   Jul 21, 2008
The European market for advanced electronic controllers for powertrain, transmission, comfort, driver assist and transmission systems should grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9% from 2007 to 2015, according to Frost & Sullivan, driven mainly by the increasing electronic applications within a vehicle and the need for comfort and convenience.

Frost: Despite Maturity, Euro Welding Consumables Market Offers Growth Pockets  Jul 21, 2008
The welding consumables market in Europe is highly mature and confronts heavy competition from suppliers based in East Asia, according to Frost & Sullivan.

Frost: Strong Growth for POU Systems, Filter Pitchers in Residential Water Treatment Markets  Jul 15, 2008
The relatively developed stage of the market and increasing competition present key challenges in the European residential water treatment systems markets, according to Frost & Sullivan.

European Parliament Votes to Strengthen EU Single Market for Telecoms   Jul 10, 2008
Proposals to reform the European Union (EU) telecom rules were voted on at a July 8 session by two committees of the European Parliament: the Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) Committee and the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) Committee.

Details of EC's Proposal to Reduce Standby Electricity Consumption  Jul 10, 2008
This document provides details of the new proposal by the European Commission (EC) for a regulation reducing standby energy consumption of household and office products.

EU Celebrates 50 Years of Automotive Cooperation  Jul 1, 2008
The European Union (EU) celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 1958 agreement of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN/ECE) on technical harmonization in the automotive industry by reflecting on some of this agreement's key achievements.

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).