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Day 2 Key Event

The European Union Horizon2020: Research on climate, resource efficiency and raw materials

Manuela Soares, European Commission, Belgium

Session content:
The EU is in the process of adopting Horizon2020 which will be its new instrument of policies and funding schemes for research and innovation. Environmental, climate and resource efficiency issues will be featured as key elements of the actions intended to respond to societal challenges. These issues will be cross cutting all major components of Horizon2020 but they will also be addressed by specific research actions dedicated to fighting and adapting to climate change, sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems, sustainable use of raw materials, and eco-innovation.

Research and Innovation activities at the EU scale will play a key role in the transition towards a green, resource efficient, low-carbon and climate resilient economy. Coordinated pan-European research and innovation will reduce uncertainties, identify risks and opportunities and propose solutions to preserve ecosystems and the services they deliver. It will aim to contribute to achieving the target of keeping the global temperature increase below 2°C compared to the pre-industrial level. The findings and the solutions developed will be replicated across the EU and transferred beyond EU borders. They will be relevant not only for scientists and research managers but also for business and industry, policy makers, European and national environment agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Strategic international cooperation actions will aim to develop a global framework for a resource efficient and a climate resilient society and economy. Cooperation with other major research funders will improve efficiency of both global and European research and contribute to the governance of the global research structures and related new initiatives.