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A young European Green Deal: Our ideas for EU climate change action

The European Green Deal seeks to reduce greenhouse emissions and engage citizens and all parts of society to participate in fighting climate change. The goal: Europe shall be the world's first climate-neutral continent. Indeed, the climate emergency has mobilised the EU to commit to a target of climate neutrality across all member states by 2050.

 

As part of this objective, MEPs voted on 7th October 2020 with a 392 majority to amend the EU’s climate target for 2030, supporting a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by the end of the decade, up from 40% formerly.

 

Now it’s your turn: How can we resolve the climate emergency before it’s too late? What would a young European Green Deal look like?

 

  • If you built a young European Green Deal against climate change, what would you focus on?
  • How can the European Parliament encourage Member States to become climate neutral by 2050?
  • Could the EU impose sanctions on Member States who fail to work towards these new targets?
  • Can global enterprises be influenced by the EU to accept greater responsibility in the fight to climate neutrality by 2050?

 

Euroscola Session
Environment and climate change

What people think

128 comments on A young European Green Deal: Our ideas for EU climate change action
Nikos markopoulos  • 09 November 2020

Hello my name is nikos , I'm from Greece I live in a city with lots of power plants who are using lignite i belive that this resource is not unlimited . FURTHERMORE ligninte when it burns it creates fumes which effects badly to Human breathing system. But greek gorvement with European help find the solution fo create filters in order to reduce the pollution in the atmosphere (Greenhouse) . But I think is time for revolution he have to find new resources like water , air . And I believe that we can research Tesla coil which can collect the electric power of lighting strikes that can be a new resource which can feed the planet with electricity without cost we have to find a solution to make Green the world with resources with a little cost we have to act now!!

Artemis  • 09 November 2020

How can we talk about climate change and reduction of pollution when some things among others still remain too offensive for the whole nature? Can we think about the fact that some products cost way much more being "dead" than being "alive"? I totally mean wood or whale oil, because they are amazingly expensive if we think their resources, which are 100% natural (trees and whales). When people kill alive organisms to produce artificial products and make them cost more than their natural resources, they underestimate and undertake the nature, first of all. Maybe there should be taken some measures like making this system upside down and if people really want to sell our natural parts, lets make them do it with morality and make artificial products cost less than physical. This way, people would appreciate more our natural habitat and world.

Liisa, Ida, Anni and Mari  • 11 November 2020

Ways to fight climate change in the EU (from Finland's point of view)
- limit the use of fossil fuels by:
- raising (gas) prices
- member countries should have restrictions on fossil fuels
- strict sanctions on countries that don't do their part
- increase the amount of carbon sinks
- encourage vegetarian/vegan diet
- taking into account the different resources that countries have to make changes
- develop circular economy
- new uses for plastic waste
- using funds to make for example airplanes more efficient
- ecologically sustainable economic growth
- making decision making quicker
- changing people's opinions and educating them

Maja, Vilma, Niga, Edit and Elin  • 20 November 2020

Our proposition for a more sustainable climate is to promote vegetarian food and establish taxes on meat to lower the consumtion and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. We also want to encourage education about the consequences of the climate change and how it will effect the climate. We would as well like to increase recycling and to pay more attention to second hand instead of buying everything new. 100% renewable energy should also be a priority. Renewable enegry is an endless source of power and it doesn´t affect the climate in a negative way.

Emmy, Sofia, Alex och Kätlin  • 20 November 2020

We do not think countries within the EU should be able to be free riders. Everyone needs to participate if we are going to be able to minimize climate change, and if some countries work well and put a lot of effort into reaching the goal whilst some other countries do not - we will not reach our goals. Being a free rider implies that you do not contribute, with for example money or resources, and let other parties, in this case countries, do the work. We do not believe it is fair to be a free rider, and therefore think the EU should establish a reward system and sanctions amongst the countries within the EU.

Establishing a reward system and sanctions with the countries within the community will remove the problem of free riders. The reward system implicates that the more a country is trying to reach the climate change goals, the greater influence they will gain in the EU which enables them to have a bigger impact on the union.

The EU should impose sanctions on countries that do not work towards reaching the climate change goals, and free riders. We have a proposition for an economic sanction. The EU should calculate how much it will cost for each country to adapt and change so that the emissions will decrease. If one country does not participate in trying to get rid of fossil fuels, they will have to pay the same amount of money that the EU calculated the change to fossil free would cost for that specific country.

Anna, Victoria, Michaela.  • 20 November 2020

When it comes to encouraging the Member States to become climate neutral by 2050 it is really important. They have to be climate neutral before 2050 because if they dont the climate will just keep getting worse and worse and soon enough it will be too late to start doing something about it. Here are some examples of how the European Parliament can encourage Member States to become climate neutral by 2050.

First of all they can have an ultimatum or a punishment. The punishment may be that if they don't agree to it they will no longer be a member of the EU. This will probably decrease freerides in the Member States. Having a reward like money can also be a plan. If you get a reward for something you do, you often get more motivation to do it.

We can encourage member states by helping them with more climate friendly resources or choices. We can encourage them to use solar energy, geothermal power or wind power instead of using power systems that use much energy and affect our climate in a negative way. We can also encourage member states to start recycling things. By recycling we can make the world better by not throwing plastics, glass and metal in the sea or anywhere in nature. We can recycle things which will lead to saving nature resources and especially the animals in the ocean.

Spreading more information can also be a way. By spreading information about how the climate is right now and how the climate will be in a few years if we keep doing what we do right now it can encourage people to do something. By this, people will realize how badly we need to start doing something about it right now and not any time later. If you have seen these videos on social media where people have been able to show how the climate will look in a few years, you know that it is awful. We need to start doing something today before it's too late, unless it's already too late.

Ida  • 20 November 2020

I believe that it’s exceedingly important to encourage every Member State to become climate neutral by at least 2050. We need for every Member State to take their responsibility to fight climate change for us to have a chance of a better future. The European Parliament can encourage every state to take their responsibility by rewarding Member States who think about their actions to a greater extent with money for example. By rewarding states who do the most they can based on their individual situation, other states will be encouraged to do the same. I believe that rewarding states for doing their best, instead of punishing them for not doing anything, is better. Giving rewards will lead to a more positive view on our ability as a union to fight this problem we face together. By giving positive consequences to helping the EU fight this problem, more Member States are going to help out.

Nils Bolinsky  • 21 November 2020

You surely heard about that Hungary and Poland don't accept the new budget plan of the EU.
In the budget, much money is planned for the realization of the European Green Deal.
In my opinion it would be much better, if the unanimity of all members of the EU wouldn't be necessary to decide things that influences the climate politic.
The veto of Hungary and Poland slows down the whole European Green Deal.
What do you think about it?

HLW Steyr 3AKM  • 25 November 2020

• If you built a young European Green Deal against climate change, what would you focus on?
We need to focus on reducing the CO2 emission. To help that, we should enlarge, cheapen and promote public transport as well as increase the price of fuel, to reduce the usage of cars and planes. We should use more renewable energy and restrict the plastic consumerism. Speaking of consumerism: A lot of CO2 is produced in the meat-industry. We think it is important to stop making meat an everyday-thing, which would be achieved by raising its price. That would lead to people consuming it less which also leads to a decreased amount of meat that is needed in the first place. Besides meat there are other products that leave an enormous economical footprint – make those more expensive as well! Having greener cities with many trees would also be a good way to reduce CO2.

• How can the European Parliament encourage Member States to become climate neutral by 2050?
First of all , we think it is important to inform about the worst-case-scenario if people don’t change anything about their lifestyle and to spread awareness about climate change in general.
Countries that work hard on being climate neutral by 2050 and focus on working towards that target more than others, should get extra bonus on for example taxes or marketing. If becoming climate neutral becomes a competition, states all over the world will get motivated and help to save the planet.

• Could the EU impose sanctions on Member States who fail to work towards these new targets?
In our opinion, the EU should be allowed to impose sanctions on Member States who fail to work towards these new targets in order to create a whole united Europe, which follows the same rules and laws.

• Can global enterprises be influenced by the EU to accept greater responsibility in the fight to climate neutrality by 2050?
Global enterprises can be motivated by being supported by the EU, to make their company more eco-friendly. New entrepreneurs should be helped to start and run their company in a climate friendly way.

Tamara Klučiarová  • 25 November 2020

We are students from a region in Slovakia where lignite mining expanded in the 1950s. The lignite has since been burned in a nearby thermal power plant and only in recent years the mining of low-quality brown coal has been suppressed. The damage caused by the production of electricity from these fossil fuels is uncontrollable – the contaminated soil, decline of bees, damage to habitats, subsidence of mined areas, deterioration of human health, etc. We are in favour of the EU addressing the issue of renewable energy as a matter of priority - we would like to see the landscape revitalized in our area and the power plant to produce electricity, for example, from hydrogen (so-called green hydrogen), which is obtained by the sun and wind. We know that the development of "green" hydrogen production is not yet far enough to be fully exploited. We are aware of some interesting opinions on the production of green hydrogen, e. g. using the desert areas and water from the oceans. The issue of hydrogen transport also needs to be addressed. We believe this should be a priority of the EU Green Deal.
We also suggest that the EU gives more support to the production and sale of low-energy equipment - e.g. just a small thing like an LED light bulb is much more expensive in the store than a classic light bulb.
Another area is the development of packaging – we would like to see it produced from materials that can be reused and are easily recyclable or decomposable, so they are more environmentally friendly. Manufacturers should be motivated to use plastic packaging on their products in a reasonable way and with respect for the environment.

EU countries that do not try to achieve the goal of being carbon neutral should be sanctioned. What would be the measurement tools? This is quite difficult to determine. The EU should present concrete measurable points in this area.

Businesses should take more responsibility for tackling the climate crisis. On the other hand, if they reduce carbon emissions, they should benefit from bigger tax relief. Other efforts (e. g. allowing the premises for auditing to avoid unnecessary lighting or smoking, reducing the need to fly, replacing conferences or meetings with video calls or ensuring public transport of employees to the workplace) should also be appreciated.
Tamara Klučiarová Business academy Prievidza, Slovakia

Lúcia, Emese, Fanni  • 26 November 2020

As we know, in agriculture in the course of soil cultivation a huge amount of greenhouse gases (Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen Dioxide, Methane) gets into the atmosphere.Soil can absorb a lot of greenhouse gases, so it would be worth to transform it from emitter to host medium.
Does the European Parliament have an action plan to support the transformation of agricultural industry during which the existing production system can be transformed into a less greenhouse emitting system while maintaining high quality?
There have been researches to achieve this goal and they are still being carried out. Measuring equipments are available on the market for collecting information and research institutes are in operation.

Lúcia, Emese, Fanni  • 26 November 2020

Have you heard of these two young Hungarian women who fight against plastic waste with their Bacterial Coctail? Do you support them in carrying out their goal?

https://hungarytoday.hu/hungarian-women-poliloop-fight-plastic-waste-bacterial-cocktail/

https://hypeandhyper.com/en/plastic-eating-bacteria-poliloop/

Maria Ribeiro  • 26 November 2020

If you built a young European Green Deal against climate change, what would you focus on?

I would focus on making the schools and universities eco-friendly so that our generation would become used to live with the minimum waste and then trough life we would automatically implement that on our environment of work, in our house and influence older generations to. For start something really basic that doesnt always happen is separate the garbage that we do on our daily routine, this is the base not trhowing garbage on the floor. Such as there is a lot of people that ignore this basic rule, something that could really help is the schools or even the students encouraging to form groups of people to make actions like collecting trash from beachs, city centers or other places that are usually more polluted.

Response to Maria Ribeiro by Goda Liucija Gašpuitytė  • 19 January 2021

I love this idea! ?

Peter-Vischer-Schule  • 27 November 2020

We the pupils of the "EU-class" at Peter-Vischer-Schule think that in order to protect our climate, coal phase-out is pivotal. We must not waste any more time and reach this goal before 2038 and after that we have to continuously support sources of renewable energy! Besides, the private economy sector has to become climate neutral and all measurements taken must be decided on independantly from our economy in general - through laws rather than certificates. These could result in the restriction of the the use of plastic packaging, for example, which also is one amongst many important steps that have to be made. We demand that any violation of such laws will consequently be prosecuted and the fines shall be reinvested into climate friendly energy sources!

Eszter Szekely  • 27 November 2020

The Eu Green Deal is a really exciting decision to cope with the climate crisis.
When componing it, what solutions did you come up with, concerning the fact that this decision is a radical and probably has many deterioative consequences
(Such as closing workplaces, banning non-reusable equipments, and the distribution of internal combustion engine, etc.)

Eszter Szekely  • 27 November 2020

The climate crisis is really crutial in our age, but the virus now there is a probably even bigger and more urgent crisis. Due to the COVID, companies started using disposable bags, boxes, cutlery, etc, so that they dicrease the possibility of spread. The question is, whether we should keep in mind the climate crisis or the dangers of the virus?

Vincenzo Pio Senatore  • 12 December 2020

I think that achieving the zero net carbon emission whitin 2050 is one of the most important goals of EU.
In fact , if countries will continue using non-renewable resources climate change will destroy humanity.
I think that countries in order to reduce pollution should encourage private industries to be more eco-friendly .
One solution could be to help hem , by reducing taxes , in case they will start to pollute less.
Another proposal could be to increase fines to those who do not comply with the laws and pollute more than they could.

Tassos Tsirigotis  • 12 January 2021

My proposition is that all countries should enforce policies about the reduction of the emission of greenhouse gases, which is one of the main causes of the greenhouse effect. Along with that, the use of non-fuel consuming or renewable energy powered means of transportation (such as bikes, scooters, electrical cars) is also essential for the reduction of CO2 and other pollutant gasses that are emitted from the millions of gas-based vehicles that "flood" the roads of european countries.
Another proposition regarding the sanctions that could be imposed on Member States who fail to work towards these new targets is that, instead of monetary sanctions, the sanctions shall be more practical and benefiting towards the solution of the problem of climate change itself; that is, countries that do not contribute or comply with environmental protection guidelines should be forced to produce eco-friendly products and renewable energy, which then can be distributed to all european Member States.

Tapiola Upper Secondary School  • 15 January 2021

We are concerned about the loss of biodiversity around the globe and in the European Union. The rate at which biodiversity is declining is unprecedented yet the actions taken to combat this crisis have failed over and over again: out of the twenty goals set for 2020 by the United Nations only 6 were partially achieved and none were completely achieved. This echoes the failure from 2010 when the goals were not achieved either.

Why has the EU failed at achieving the previous goals and what concrete steps is the EU taking to make sure that the goals will be actually met?

Tapiola Upper Secondary School  • 15 January 2021

The decision-making process in the EU is not working sufficiently. The EU has been too slow to act especially when it comes to questions regarding the climate crisis and the destruction of biodiversity. However, the slow decision-making process is not the only issue. The EU has made too many compromises both when it comes to the goals set and immediate action. These compromises have been made within the EU and with its trading partners. Environment has not been prioritized the way it needs to be.

On what grounds does the EU stand when it comes to delaying necessary action and watering down already too inadequate goals?

Tapiola Upper Secondary School  • 15 January 2021

The unprecedented loss of biodiversity is one of the main issues of our time. According to the United Nations eight massive changes are needed to stop this process. One of them is sustainable development of agriculture and another one is the global food system. These two changes are very much intertwined and they would have a huge impact on the diversity and well-being of nature.

One of the biggest factors in the loss of biodiversity is land usage. The most significant reason for unsustainable land usage is animal agriculture. Producing feed for livestock takes up huge areas of land. It causes deforestation and thus is a leading factor in extinction of species. Switching to a plant-based food system is needed to ensure the survival and restoration of biodiversity: it takes up a lot less land and water and causes less emissions and destruction of nature.

This is something the EU needs to take seriously. The EU has a very big impact when it comes to the direction in which the food system will develop in Europe. Through the agricultural subsidies the EU gives it could very well make it more profitable for farmers to switch to farming plants instead of animals.

What action will the EU take in order to meet the UN goals regarding agriculture? What steps will the EU take to support plant-based food production?

Giuseppe Bonanno  • 15 January 2021

As far as I know the most difficult problem to deal with is the emission of greenhouse gases. It is difficult to solve because it involves a lot of important societies which are able to influence the action of the governments of different countries, such as oil, natural gas and cattle breeding lobbies.
I perfectly understand how arduous this matter is. However I still believe in a reaction from European and national Authorities, I wish they would go against those who want only the evil of our world and money for themselves.
According to a research conducted by the IPCC in 2010, the 25% of greenhouse emission derives from the combustion of oil and natural gas and the 24% derives from agriculture and breeding.
For this reason we have to reduce the consumption of meat which is also unhealthy. Then we have to finance the development of different kinds of energy, such as biomass, wind, photovoltaic and geothermal energy. Our goal MUST be zero emission.
We ought to change our diet, our forms of energy but, above all, we should change our mind.
Stop thinking of the money, think of world health!!!

Mariavittoria Stumpo  • 18 January 2021

Nowadays it is very difficult to think of a different kind of world than we are used to living in. But in some years the world we know could change or completely disappear. It must be our first goal to achieve thinking about what, not the politicians, but everyone should do in their own lives to save the Earth and its inhabitants. Obviously, the European Parliament can encourage Member States to pay more attention to the environmental issue.
According to recent research every European consumes on average 14 tonnes of raw materials per year and, as consequence, five tonnes of waste per year. A possible solution could be imposing sanctions on the countries which do not take action to reduce the amount of citizens’ waste and its wrong disposal.
Another way is giving financial support to the companies which exploit alternative energy sources with the aim to reduce CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. The same purpose could become more reachable with the addition of green areas in the cities, which are also suitable as places of leisure for the population.
The European Parliament can do a lot, but it cannot do everything alone. Everyone should take part in this sustainable choice of life without wasting water, food, papers and all the resources of the planet which are not infinite. Perhaps a way to raise awareness of people is showing them constantly what behaviours they should always adopt. As we saw everyday announcements on TV about what was suggested to do during the pandemic period, people could face daily with the risks of the planet and the means to prevent them taking advantage of advertisements on TV and social networks to always remind what everyone can do on his own to save the environment. Taking public transport instead of cars, riding bicycles, recycling and reusing everything is possible and avoiding to throw rubbish on the ground are small behaviours which everyone can do without a big effort. Every good action counts because it is up to all of us. If we did it to protect the population from the coronavirus, why would we not try to do it to protect the planet from ourselves?

Katarina Pavelić  • 18 January 2021

I was thinking of ways to help our planet and few ideas came up. Maybe to lower the pollution of air and lower the amount of carbon we are producing in our factories, we should put filters on chimneys to filter the smoke coming out. I was also thinking that every household should buy at least one solar panel to absorb the rays of sun so we can reduce the heat. I know solar panels are expensive and not many people can afford them but their price can be lowered to an affordable level. Just by doing this we can lover the production of carbon. The solar panels on the houses can use up the heat that was already built up. And if this helps we should also stop fishing at so many hot spots in the ocean so fish can have more food. This will help to wake up the ocean and make it be like it was once long time ago.

Laura Smojver  • 18 January 2021

 The most important thing we should address in my opinion concerns animals. Animals are the ones who are hurt the most by people even if they aren't guilty for anything. My idea was that we who belong to human family should be more careful about destroying animal homes and shelters. For example, we should be more careful with cutting down the forests. We should also take care of endangered animal species because they are close to disappearing.

Stela Prpić  • 18 January 2021

With the average global temperature rising there are and will be more difficulties in reversing the effects of GHG (green house gas) emission. There is no doubt of the source- global warming, particularly the increase of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere which has a cascading effect upon the planet’s intricate climate system. Human activities are root of this problem, causing the global temperature and sea-levels to rise. EU fisheries managment prevents harvesting corals, even though we still have yet to spare sea life from the human destruction that is pollution. How do we reverse this? Is it even possible?
Well, theoretically both global warming and sea-level rise can be halted or reversed using different options that I believe should be more rewarded. An option like cleaning the sea from pollution is innocuous and should be more rewared and encouraged. A geoengineering method that I would love to be more inforced is solar radiation managment. A variety of options have been proposed for SRM, including space-based options. Placing vast satellites in space at the L1 point between the Earth and the Sun, reflecting the sunlight. Options that should be more considered are smaller things like having white roofs, allowing more sunlight reflection.

Mihaela Ćaćić  • 18 January 2021

I believe that it is very important to encourage every Member State to become climate neutral by 2050, and I hope that will succeed. People all over the world are not aware of what is really going on with the Planet. We must try to make each Member State take its own responsibility because no one else can do it for them. I think that states that take some good steps and improve their carbon emission politics should be rewarded and thus give an incentive to states that have not done so, but also give them some fines. We can also encourage Member States to start recycling. That will help save natural resources, especially animals in the ocean from the plastic waste. We can try to create as many protected zones as possible in which animals and plants will be able to survive. At the same time, there are renewable natural resources that should be used as much as possible. We should take action and try to explain and bring closer to people that with such initiatives we can help revive the planet earth.

Emma, Amandine, Alexiane, Chimène, Inès et Zélia  • 18 January 2021

Notre projet serait de convertir l'énergie mécanique (physique) d'un individu lorsqu'il fait ses exerices à la salle de sport en énergie électrique utile à celle-ci. En effet, en faisant du sport on dépense beaucoup d'énergie qui se dissipe sous effet Joule. Or celle-ci pourrait être utilisée à des fins écologiques en étant réutilisée afin de faire de la salle de sport un lieu auto-suffisant.
Ce principe pourrait être développé dans différents domaines de la vie quotidienne : développer les coins sport, comme en ville, dans les écoles. Ces équipements sportifs permettraient aux élèves de se dépenser mais à la fois de générer de l'énergie électrique utile au fonctionnement des ordinateurs par exemple.

Felix LORIOT  • 18 January 2021

Climate change is nowadays one of the biggest issues our planet is facing. Many countries are setting themselves goals and do their best to lower their carbon emissions, but others neglect it and don't even think about it, prioritizing their own profits. Even though through the years, the different goals established by the multiple Conference of Partie's were never accomplished, it doesn't mean it couldn't be achieved on a smaller scale. The European Green Deal shows the determination of our European Union to drastically reduce the carbon emissions. However, to be fully effective, the European Union should be stricter by for example suying the countries who obviously don't make any effort in reducing their carbon emissions and keep seeking for profit. On a more local scale, the European Union should help countries subsidize people buying electric or low CO2 emissions cars. To encourage the use of bikes, the European Union could also release funds, so that european countries can build secured cycle paths or even put a fine if after multiple years, the number of cycle paths in each city is still very limited. Suing countries even though they didn't committed big mistakes might look a very non-democratic behaviour, however, it is the only chance to stop climate change. The Conference of Parties showed that if the countries don't have the obligation to achieve the setted goals, they will never reach it.

Anaelle Jaffré  • 18 January 2021

L'éducation est une manière assez efficace pour permettre à chacun de comprendre les problèmes actuels.

Alors j'ai pensé qu'on pourrait créer une nouvelle matière à l'école, qui prendrait quelques heures par ans pour ne pas empiéter sur les autres enseignements, et qui sensibiliserait les adultes de demain à l'écologie, en leur montrant les enjeux actuels et en les incitant à s'impliquer.

En connaissance de causes qui peuvent potentiellement l'affecter, un être conscient possède la volonté d'agir.

On pourrait faire, par exemple, quatre nouvelles heures par ans pour les niveaux primaires et les collégiens (en France en tout cas, je sais que ce n'est pas le même système dans les autres pays). En tout cas, des enfants plutôt jeunes, qui ne demandent qu'à devenir adulte (on les connaît) mais doivent développer leur esprit avant cela.

Les cours pourraient porter sur :
- Les gestes simples que tout le monde peut faire (tri sélectif, ne pas jeter ses déchets n'importe où, acheter local...)
- Les mesures qui ont déjà été mises en place ces dernières années (pour les inspirer, les guider)
- Et comporter un temps de mise en communs d'idées, pour se sentir impliqué, et pour développer la créativité intellectuelle de chacun, la recherche d'idées.

Quand on est jeune, on a le temps de se poser pleins de questions sur notre environnement...

La curiosité est le plus beau des défauts =D

Boldizsár Boross  • 19 January 2021

Since global warming is one of the most important issues to worry about, I have been wondering what could be done. In my point of view there is not much that an ordinary person can do, because even though we try to do our best to cut down on our carbon emissions, it is nothing compared to multinational companies. Their carbon footprint is way bigger than ours. I believe that could be changed by making them change their attitude. There are two ways of making them do so: punish them if they are not green enough or – and this one is better I think– reward them if they can reduce their carbon-footprint. In my opinion they should be rewarded with money, since that's quite a motivation. But what would these firms do with this money? They would use it as capital, meaning more and more investments, and therefore it wouldn't solve our problem. That's the reason why we should regulate these companies, and give this money to them only to raise the wages of their workers. That could make them more competitive on the labour market.  But what about smaller firms? It would be impossible for them to find workforce, because the bigger companies would suck up all the manpower.
Small companies have to be given the chance to get these subsidies more easily than bigger ones, thus setting a competition for multinational companies. And the incentive of the competition would be to keep their place in the labour market otherwise they won't have any workers.

Brendan-Lee Meraner  • 20 January 2021

The global warming will be one of the biggest challenges we have to face in the 21st century. We’ve already been through the phase of ignorance and denial, but we are stuck in a phase of non-caring. Expertise from well-known and respected scientist, not only a few, the majority of them, are telling us for 20 years straight that we have to change, and we keep unconcerned. And when we care its finger-pointing to the USA, China and so on. That has to stop. We are on the edge, it’s time to react before it’s too late. The politicians have to keep their promises!! And if not it’s our duty to remind them to what they promised us in the Green Deal and the Paris Agreement: climate neutrality until 2050, stopping the global warming at 1.5 C, no more coal power plants, and and and. The list goes on, but at the moment the European climate policy is only a façade. We set goals but don't have any intention to fulfil them, otherwise Germany for example wouldn’t build a new coal power plant right now.
At the moment we are heading towards 3 Celsius with our current politics. The greenhouse gases are near an all-time hight. They were at the current amount once, but the average temperature was 5 degrees Celsius above our current! Greenland starts to melt, as well as the antarctica. If only Greenland and 1/3 of the antarctica melts our see levels will rise for approximate 25 metre. Just a reminder: Shanghai is at a see level of 4 m, London at 11 m, New York at 10 m, and that’s only the beginning. Even we as Europeans would face the drastic impact, Berlin and Paris are at 35 metre, so imagine if it keeps melting. And that is only one consequence of climate change, the list could go for ever.
If we keep our current politics up, I’m scared, for my future, for our future. It’s not about the polar bears, what’s really on the edge are our future, our lives, our planet!!
Brendan Meraner, HAK Weiz, Austria

Institut Escola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Recycling is not easy for people. If you want to recycle, you have to occupy a space in your house with containers and every time you throw something away think to which container it goes to. A lot of people are bothered by the smell and end up throwing all rubbish in the same place.

In one of our trips, we were able to see that in some countries in central and northern Europe, in their supermarkets there were some machines that returned a part of the money that the product cost you if you returned the packaging. There are studies that show that this is a good alternative. For example, in Holland, 95% of the packaging is returned to the supermarkets. That’s a good idea to apply because not only do people save money but it also provides a job for unemployed people.

With all the plastic collected, companies don’t need to buy more, but they can earn money that they can invest in more ecologic materials. Why don’t you apply this method to other countries?

INSTITUT ESCOLA JACINT VERDAGUER  • 20 January 2021

An initiative that could help address today’s crisis would be to establish a well-connected eco-friendly network of transportation among little towns in order to decrease the use of private means of transportation, that is to say, the car. Even though 55% of the world's population live in big cities, it is also quite important to take into account the limitations of living in a more secluded settlement. Oftentimes living in a small town immediately translates to a less hectic lifestyle; however, it also tends to imply a bigger scarcity in terms of connectivity with the surrounding areas. This lack of accessibility could be mitigated if there was a more secure transport system; For instance, it would be convenient to build a wider network of railroad lines, as well as stations. Another initiative that could help promote a more sustainable way of living in small towns would be the rollout of a platform where neighbors could share their rides with others, thus, reducing the consumption of fossil fuels.

INSTITUT ESCOLA JACINT VERDAGUER  • 20 January 2021

An initiative that could help address today’s crisis refering to the building of a bicycle lane-network along the train railways. This idea is quite relevant considering that our country has very distinct geographic features. Most of Spain’s territory consists of mountainous relief, in other words, the topography comprises many ups and downs. At this juncture, in order to encourage people to use bicycles as a more prevailing form of transportation, it would be optimal to create cycle tracks along the train railroads, as these are built on a maximum 5% tilt angle.

Institut Esola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

In Sant Sadurni, where we live, there’s a method called “door to door collection” where every day at night in the door of your house, you can leave your separate trash and during the night, the garbage collectors take it.
The Town hall gives to all inhabitants 3 little containers, one green for glass, one yellow for plastics and one brown for organic material. Regarding the paper and cardboard, you have to leave it tied only once a week. In Sant Sadurni, this method has increased recycling by 85%.

We believe that it is a good method to apply to all European cities.

INSTITUT ESCOLA JACINT VERDAGUER  • 20 January 2021

A thought would be to encourage the transition towards sustainable and greener construction. This initiative would be especially relevant in Spain as the construction sector is one of the country’s main source of income. On this account, it is interesting to note that at present, in Spain the demand for new-build properties is still greater than the supply of newly-built properties. Moreover, the structure which forms the basis of the great majority of houses in this country is made out of concrete beams, a highly contaminated material. In fact, concrete is the most consumed man-made material in the world and the second most consumed material on the planet after water. Concrete production results in 2.8 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide which grasp between 4-8% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, in the midst of a world full of greed and eagerness to build more, it is of paramount importance to rethink the ways in which we create, turning construction greener and more ecologic. Perhaps monetary compensation might be a good way to stimulate people to build their homes differently.

INSTITUT ESCOLA JACINT VERDAGUER  • 20 January 2021

Immigration policies. Europe emits carbon dioxide since the Industrial revolution and these gases have been accumulating gases in the atmosphere for 300 years. These gases have not disappeared and they affect all countries. There are some countries that have immigrants due to climate change and we are very hard with immigration policies but then we need their seas to go fishing. Many boats full of immigrants arrive in the Canary Islands.

Institut Esola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Cigarettes are very harmful for our health and they have severe environmental impacts, for example: air pollution, forest and rainforest fires, butts that end up on the ground and pollute a lot of water. Therefore, we would increase taxes on the packs of cigarettes and other highly polluting products

Institut Esola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Twice every term children attending school from 1st of Primary to 4th ESO could go out to pick up trash.

Institut Esola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Build large car parks on the outskirts of each city and town and have a non-polluting public transport service that would allow mobility throughout the city

Institut Esola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Save electricity. In towns and cities at night the streetlights are on so that we can see when we drive and walk. This electricity could be reduced and we would save a lot. Apart from that, we should take more advantage of the daylight provided by the sun and not have the lights on, so we could increase the number of windows in places where the sun shines.

Institut Escola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

In the last 50 years there has been an increase of the vegetation in the forests and rural areas, where the abandonment of the inhabitants also increased. Due to that, in these places they don’t no extract firewood, clean forests, or cut branches, ... This vegetation has grown a lot and is more dense and has a high risk of fires, especially in the countries with warmer temperatures such as southern Europe where climate change plays a very important role.

The largest and most destructive fires in history have occurred in recent years despite having the most advanced tools, technology and infrastructure in history for firefighting.

In order to confront this situation, we should control and cut down the fuel inside the forest in strategic areas determined by the forest guards, preserving natural areas of highly ecological value. If we do this we will prevent forests from burning in a devastating and uncontrollable way.
This forest management can be done in 2 systems, because doing it with machines would be completely inviable for the high cost:

1- USING LIVESTOCK FOR FOREST FIRE PREVENTION
Introducing free herbivorous animals that graze in areas such as donkeys, cows and goats that would naturally clean up the forest and reduce flammable material such as dry grass, shrubs, etc.… Applying this system reduces the cost by 90%. with machinery.

2- EXTRACTING FOREST BIOMASS AND ENERGY UTILIZATION
Make a selective pruning, creating adult forests that are fire resistant. Take out trees where there are many trees together. This doesn’t mean destroying trees but remove the weakest, the sick where there are so many and the trees left will grow up stronger and faster. For example, if there are 5 together, leave two. The three trees that have been removed take advantage of them to do biomass that can be used to burn and make thermal energy or even electricity.

Carbon cycle: closed cycle: doesn't pollute
The smoke that is created when the biomass of a tree is burning is carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a small quantity compared with all the oxygen that was produced when it was alive.
Burning biomass from forest management does not pollute because previously that tree has created oxygen. When it is burned it is releasing carbon dioxide (CO2), which will be captured by another tree that it’s alive. This alive tree generates oxygen and when burning will again generate CO2, which will be absorbed by another tree that will generate new oxygen and successively.

Institut Escola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Provide all 11-year-old people with vagina reusable pads and a free menstrual cup in order to reduce the use of pads and tampons.(one only uses plastic)

Institut Escola Jacint Verdaguer  • 20 January 2021

Reduce the consumption of meat, which is so unhealthy. The 25% of greenhouse emission derives from the burning of oil and natural gas and the 24% derives from agriculture and breeding. These cause deforestation and they are leading factors in the extinction of species. For these reasons, increasing the price of meat, raising awareness to reduce consumerism and helping farmers to switch to farming plants instead of animals would be the solution.

I  • 20 January 2021

Obligacion awareness of climate change at school since childhood. There could be a specific subject, once a week, which could include the contents related to this topic in all schools of all European countries.

Giulio Passrino  • 20 January 2021

For more than 30 years scientists have been deeply clear about the urgency of changing our habits in order to lower the carbon emissions. Nevertheless, several countries keep looking away and state that they are doing enough, when the politics and solutions needed are actually nowhere in sight. Even though the majority of the goals which are supposed to be accomplished by 2030 imply many sacrifices we all should make an effort. I think it would be useful to impose sanctions on Member States who haven't succeeded in achieving the new targets. However, i think that the best way to encourage Member States to become climate neutral is to give some rewards to those countries who have done more than the others

HAK Weiz  • 20 January 2021

We think that more ambition is needed to realize the goals of the Green Deal. People need to understand what’s at stake. That’s why we believe that everybody needs to get involved with environmental improvements.
It would be necessary that especially big companies follow the restrictions because they could be responsible for horrible consequences in the future.

We need to act now this is our last chance. Even though we here in Austria are not as affected as others, we cannot just look away.

This is also a great chance to bring people together again.

It won’t be easy, but together we can make a difference.

Lorenzo  • 20 January 2021

My idea is to create a crowdfunding for renewable energy projects.
There are many environmental protection projects and many of them include renewable energy sources. These projects can help to replace fossil fuels, or support the future of urban transport by reducing the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere especially in the big cities where air pollution rates are excessively high.

Francesca Fragomene  • 20 January 2021

One of the biggest reasons why global warming, pollution and climate change still exist, is the indifference of most people.

Everyone is aware of such phenomena, as well as of the several ways to stop them from happening: recycling, using alternative energy sources, increasing green areas, reducing plastic production, taking public transports, stopping to waste electricity and so on.
Nevertheless, I believe the real difficulty is that no one is encouraged enough to fight and change the current situation, because the perception of the problem is not immediate. States must have the strength and the courage to impose certain choices to promote a correct behavior. That's because if the concrete change is left to the individual will of the citizen, the process will be too slow.
By doing so even younger generations will have the chance to reflect upon the fundamental concept that the real aim of man on the planet is not the exploitation of this one to obtain an economic profit, but is an existence in harmony with nature and its creatures.

Sham Harba  • 20 January 2021

In my opinion, we should focus on increasing energy efficiency and using renewable energy. When we talk about energy, we must talk about obtaining it.
About 1.2 billion people around the world do not have electricity, and another 2.8 billion people depend on solid fuels such as wood, charcoal and coal for cooking, which cause severe damage by polluting the air indoors.
Improving energy efficiency is crucial. So all the gigawatts that can be saved are gigawatts that we don't need to produce. Globally, energy use today is about a third less than it would have been without the improvements in energy efficiency over the past twenty years. At the same time, the cost of renewable energy continues to decline. And in many countries, the cost of producing utility-scale renewable energy is now lower than or equal to the cost at fossil fuel stations.

In return, emphasis must be placed on applying climate-friendly farming practices and expanding forests. Climate-friendly farming practices help farms increase farm productivity and resilience in the face of climate change impacts such as droughts, and at the same time they act as reservoirs to absorb carbon that help reduce emissions.
Forests are also useful reservoirs for carbon sequestration and storage in soil, trees and leaves.

The European Parliament could encourage member states to become climate neutral, by smoothly displaying ideas and arranging deals where they secure each country's needs in return.

The European Union can stop the deals that it previously talked about in the event that no member state has contributed to the new goals.

I think that the global enterprises of the European Union will not be influenced if the European Union will help financially.

Kolossi Lyceum, Cyprus. ????

Mathilde Bocquet, Zelia Gallou, Anaelle Jaffre, Apolline George  • 20 January 2021

Nous aimerions mettre en place une journée européenne de l’environnement au cours de laquelle les collèges et lycées participeraient à des projets environnementaux.
Il faudrait pour cela banaliser une journée par an de manière à ce que les lycéens et collégiens prennent part à des projets environnementaux encadrés par des associations tels que le nettoyage des espaces naturels, la plantation d’arbres,...
Au-delà de l’impact environnemental de cette journée, cela permettrait de créer une dynamique européenne autours de l’environnement.

Dimitris Boulios  • 21 January 2021

I believe that a major way to tackle climate change is the farm-to-fork strategy proposed in the European New Deal. My concerns which I would like to address revolve around Animal Husbandry. With livestock accounting for 14,5% of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, 20% of Amazon’s deforestation for grazing & feeding and, a huge, 70% of freshwater consumption, the limitation or even, the elimination of Animal Agriculture is a one way ticket.
For this to occur, I am afraid that the EU agri-food promotion policy is not enough. I suggest, not only to support the agricultural sector by promoting it in the internal market but also encouraging livestock and dairy farmers to transition to plant-based agriculture, and other emerging opportunities outside of animal production, by giving them subsidies.
This will benefit the farmers themselves and have a huge impact on world hunger, on ethical consumerism and of course, on the protection of the environment.

1st Lyseum of Panorama, Thessaloniki  • 21 January 2021

The renewable energy sources are an important part of the European Green deal. Therefore, investing in them shouldn’t be so challenging.
In 2019 only 20% of the EU's energy consumption came from renewable sources and that percentage will not change positively, if the procedure doesn’t become more accessible. Right now, with the existing urban planning laws, it would take decades before renewable energy represents more than 80% of the energy consumed in Europe. This delay is something we can't afford, considering the narrow rise of global warming in the last decades.
In addition, the cost of the installation of the solar and aeolian energy generators is currently extravagant and, even though long term profits are guaranteed, few take the risk for this impactful change.

1st lyceum of Panorama, Thessaloniki  • 21 January 2021

I believe that a major way to tackle climate change is the farm-to-fork strategy proposed in the European New Deal. My concerns which I would like to address revolve around Animal Husbandry. With livestock accounting for 14,5% of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, 20% of Amazon’s deforestation for grazing & feeding and, a huge, 70% of freshwater consumption, the limitation or even, the elimination of Animal Agriculture is a one way ticket.
For this to occur, I am afraid that the EU agri-food promotion policy is not enough. I suggest, not only to support the agricultural sector by promoting it in the internal market but also encouraging livestock and dairy farmers to transition to plant-based agriculture, and other emerging opportunities outside of animal production, by giving them subsidies.
This will benefit the farmers themselves and have a huge impact on world hunger, on ethical consumerism and of course, on the protection of the environment.

Federica Pira  • 21 January 2021

We should give more importance to the environment and natural habitats by respecting the endangered vegetation and animals. Pollution is mainly caused by fumes and exhaust gases produced by factories, cars, businesses, non-renewable energy sources. For example, a very frequent problem is the use of cars even when it is not strictly necessary. In fact, how many people use public transport when they have the opportunity? Or how many people go by bicycle or on foot, when there is little way to cover? Another issue is garbage, Incineration of tons of waste is one of the worst causes of pollution. For this reason, if we want to do our part in protecting the environment, we should first of all buy fewer things containing plastic, preferring glass or paper, try to buy only what is necessary and avoid throwing away more food than what we consume. In addition, we should try to waste less, for example by always using cloth napkins and not paper, or avoiding the purchase of ready-made and industrial products, favoring more genuine products, perhaps from local farmers and breeders.
In order to combat pollution it is important to start with our small daily actions. Be free to be the change for yourself and consequently you will be the change of the world.

Chris Delis  • 21 January 2021

The idea of using renewable sources of energy is widely thought the best way to have the nature by our side . We all have seen the huge wind generators standing on the top of the mountains. It is commonly thought that generators have an important impact on taking advantage of the renewable sources of energy. In fact wind generators are a serious enemy of nature. After several studies results have demonstrated that the price of the machines are massive and overcome the “accepted price” for environmental improvement . Also the generators last from 2 to 4 years. Those "giants" after some time, are getting buried in very big wind generators dump.
It would be a significant improvement in the field of environmental studies if watermills replaced wind generators. From the ancient years (ex. Egypt, Greece) civilizations used watermills with the aim of having water supply in their home. With the pressure of water, watermills will produce electricity. In order to achieve that it would be a good idea if all countries of the world contribute to the “race” of making the planet a better place. Especially countries with powerful economy could take the responsibility of investing on the watermills. Seasides would be the perfect spot to build a watermill. The results could be beneficial for everyone .This is a possible solution to avoid spending money and energy .We should think about the devastation that we have caused to our nature and we should try to make changes in order to benefit the earth.

Cecilia (Sek Alborán)  • 21 January 2021

Promouvoir les énergies renouvelables.

L'Espagne est l'une des régions de toute l'Europe qui a le plus d'heures d'ensoleillement. Ce soleil pourrait être exploité en utilisant des panneaux solaires.

Pour cette raison, la promotion de toutes les énergies renouvelables devrait être utilisée, par exemple, dans les zones où passent de longs fleuves et où nous pourrions installer de l'énergie hydraulique. En plus, dans le sud de l'Espagne, des panneaux solaires et de l'énergie éolienne pourraient être mis en place. Si cette énergie renouvelable peut être promue, les déchets fossiles pourraient être mis de côté.

Cecilia (Sek Alborán)  • 21 January 2021

Promouvoir les énergies renouvelables.

L'Espagne est l'une des régions de toute l'Europe qui a le plus d'heures d'ensoleillement. Ce soleil pourrait être exploité en utilisant des panneaux solaires.

Pour cette raison, la promotion de toutes les énergies renouvelables devrait être utilisée, par exemple, dans les zones où passent de longs fleuves et où nous pourrions installer de l'énergie hydraulique. En plus, dans le sud de l'Espagne, des panneaux solaires et de l'énergie éolienne pourraient être mis en place. Si cette énergie renouvelable peut être promue, les déchets fossiles pourraient être mis de côté.

Teye Albert, Fermi Licata  • 21 January 2021

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges for Humanity to solve in our time and we have to find urgent solutions, we have to take drastic measures at this crucial point because we are the cause.
The emission of CO2 has been growing rapidly and to reduce this problem the uses of renewable source of energy must increase, like wind energy, solar energy and the production of electric cars must increase. I know a lot has been done but is not enough.
Being part of the young European Green Deal against Environment and Climate change, I would focus on spreading the message to sensibilise the people all over the world on climate change. I believe that only the governments can't solve this problem and the citizens have roles to play as individuals and communities,
picking the garbage in our environment, dumping them at the right place. We can continue by using public transport to decrease the emission of C02 by our cars, changing our eating habits, for instance reducing our consumption of meat and much more. I would alert the general public to make them understand how badly we have turned our planet and we need to act as fast as possible to save our planet for ourselves and the future generations.

International school Sek Alborán  • 21 January 2021

Sek Alborán proposes the installation of wind farms in the middle of the sea.
We have based our proposals on the environment of our locality, where we are daily faced with large gusts of wind which could generate large amounts of wind energy, therefore including windmills could be a great opportunity to take advantage of tidal energy.
The places where our proposals could be implemented would be in the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, the areas close to the Mediterranean Sea and the Cantabrian Sea, this in terms of hydraulic measures, then, we could use the vast gusts of wind that are found in our mountain systems and numerous mountain ranges. All this energy will be used by the citizens living in the areas closest to the coasts where these windmills will be located.
In short, our proposals are to implement windmills to harness wind energy and windmills to harness tidal energy.

International school Sek Alborán  • 21 January 2021

Sek Alborán proposes the installation of wind farms in the middle of the sea.
We have based our proposals on the environment of our locality, where we are daily faced with large gusts of wind which could generate large amounts of wind energy, therefore including windmills could be a great opportunity to take advantage of tidal energy.
The places where our proposals could be implemented would be in the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, the areas close to the Mediterranean Sea and the Cantabrian Sea, this in terms of hydraulic measures, then, we could use the vast gusts of wind that are found in our mountain systems and numerous mountain ranges. All this energy will be used by the citizens living in the areas closest to the coasts where these windmills will be located.
In short, our proposals are to implement windmills to harness wind energy and windmills to harness tidal energy.

Institut Escola Jacint Verdaguer  • 21 January 2021

FOSSIL FUELS
We all know that fossil fuels as gas and petrol have only days left as they are reaching an end. Apart from that, they highly contribute to pollution and therefore climate change and its devastating consequences. To prevent that, I believe that the best and first option right now is to start increasing taxes and guide and persuade companies to make a change. In its place, there are lots of sustainable energy resources such as aeolic, hydrological, solar and geothermal. If the prices are much lower, more citizens will benefit from them.

NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
It's more than obvious that nuclear power plants are quite a big cause and increase pollution and are a threat for climate change.
It is extremely difficult and expensive to dismantle or end immediately a nuclear power plant, so we believe we should wait until its life is ended to forbid the construction of new ones. If the nuclear plants disappear, the companies could turn their energy sources into sustainable and cheaper ones. To help them, governments should invest and promote this alternative by applying less taxes and increase the ones for actual nuclear power plants.

SINGLE USE PLASTICS
It works the same way for single use plastics. We are so used to them, their low price and practicality. But there actually is a life without them, we just need to change simple habits of our routine. We have seen that with the removal of single use plastic bags: it hasn’t been that hard to get used to it. The same needs to happen with the rest of single use plastics. Let’s start buying from those responsible companies that make the effort! Also if that kind of products are cheaper than those plastic ones, people will consider that alternative. So the solution is to increase the taxes until they are forbidden.

Selene Floriani  • 21 January 2021

For many years the climate emergency have persisted among the most important problems we are influenced from. Although many States have been trying to give their contribution, the actions of individual States are not sufficient to solve this situation, which is very serious and wide ranging. Every State should impose specific rules and sensitise the population in order to reach an important goal, to become the world's first climate-neutral continent.

In order to sensitise and make aware people of the situation, it could be organised cultural events in theatrical and cinematographic fields; it could be realised theatrical plays or short movies which talks specifically about this theme.

The States which demonstrate much interest and collaboration should be rewarded with ceremonies, for the States and the cities, in order to recognise their dedication.

At the same time I think that all the States witch don’t show their contribution and awareness, should be heavily sanctioned so they have to be conscious about their bad and inappropriate actions.

Christina Fink & Brendan Meraner  • 21 January 2021

Comment on the European Green Deal

We can already notice the fearsome impacts of the climate change in our everyday lives. When If? you look at the land fires in e.g. France, Australia, California, or the climate refugees who/that are coming from all over Asia and Africa, you can predict what the future will look like if we don’t get to grips with the problems now. We have to act, now or never! The European Green Deal is the right concept, but it’s missing out the right implementation. We know what we have to do, now it’s our obligation to act in a proper way to save our planet. The members of the EU must work together, as a real union, to fight for the same goal. Every country has to fulfill their duties and possibilities to make our world a livable country for everyone. We have the options, now it’s the time to act.

HAK Weiz/Austria
Christina Fink, Brendan Meraner

Panagea Stavroula  • 21 January 2021

In my opinion, one of young European Green Deal’s main priorities should be increasing the awareness about climate change. How can children be raised with an ecological conscience? How people who are not specialists can possibly be informed or even contribute to this collective effort?

Stories, poems but also other artistic projects are an effective way to actually get a message across. Both genres characteristic of their simplicity and ability to interact with humans’ emotions, they might be able to establish the fundamentals of future citizens who protect their environment and are conscious about their actions.

Therefore, my proposition is to create a website in which people from European countries, regardless of age, are able to upload their pieces of art which concern the climate change. Should the number of participants be increased, then it would be also possible to organize exhibitions in each country where we can present such creations, read poems or stories and discuss about this dominant phenomenon of our era, not only with professionals, but by narrating personal experiences and ideas, inspiring the next generations of scientist and activist.

Giorgia Mazzeo  • 21 January 2021

The most important goal to be reached by all ll member states of the EU is climate neutrality by 2050 and I think that we should be more responsible and more committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Talking about global warming, air pollution, water pollution and energy waste seem too difficult for young people but I believe that each person can contribute to make the world we live in better by learning to behave in a different way.
Here are some tips to improve our behaviour:
- the air is, of course, polluted because there are too many cars on our roads and the car engines produce harmfull gases for our health so we can have problems breathing and we can get ill, so if we use public transport it would be better or we should share our car with other people and of course cars and buses would use renewable energy instead of fuel;
- each family produces too many plastic water bottles but most of these bottles are not recycled because people continue to put them in the rubbish bin instead of in the recycling bin. In so doing the bottles and in the ground or in the sea and can be dangerous to wild life. Recycling plastic to make new products is he best solution to the problem because recycling uses less energy than making water bottles from new plastics and also produces less pollution. If we learn to separate the rubbish into the right bin we should be surprised to know that a lot of other objects are done from recycled plastic.
We should use glass bottle or limit the number of glass plastic bottles.
- The introduction of solar panels or wind energy would save our planet instead of using the traditional energy.

Broederschool  • 21 January 2021

We, students of the Broederschool in Roeselare, Belgium, see a few immediate courses of action. We’ll list them in order of popularity in our group.
The first course of action is ‘green energy’. Governments should invest in green energy alternatives through mass production of hydrogen batteries, electric windmills and solar panels. That might ensure green energy to become affordable and available to every citizen, and doing so, causing a lower production of carbon dioxide. On top of that there's no fear for the people to lose their jobs.
We should use also use biodiesel as a source of green energy. In order to diminish the use of fossil fuels, we should reuse more and choose sustainable products such as plant-based plastics.
By 2030 50% of all cars should be electric. In order to achieve that aim, electric cars should be made cheaper.
Bicycle use should be actively promoted by government, for instance by giving a bonus to people who cycle to work. Villages, towns and cities should discourage the use of cars and stimulate the use of bicycles for everyday transport. So we need safe cycle lanes, and more pedestrian zones, together with more parking spaces for cars outside the centres.
Our second course of action is creating an eco-label for textile products that are eco-friendly. These products should get a fair price as well.
Our third course of action would be planting more trees, so that we can capture more carbon dioxide.

Finally, the last one would be trying to get people to eat insect-based food, for instance by giving everyone some free portions to promote it. They could also put insects in food without telling the people, that way everyone will have a taste of it.

Laeticia and Alix  • 21 January 2021

To encourage and engage citizens or all parts of society to participate in fighting climate change, we propose different methods/ solutions. As we all know, children are the future and they can well remember when growing up with something. Indeed, we believe that introducing a course every week at school would be efficient. Selective sorting, pick up waste.. would be included in the course. It will have the same aspect as the "EMC" classes that we attend in the French system. Or, if it is better in terms of cost and timetables, one obligatory day discovering the world of fighting climate change (resembling therefore to the JDC, the Defense and Citizenship Day, in the french system) could be as well useful. Moreover, another key that would certainly have an impact can be the use of publicities in cities. With the sanitary crisis we are currently living and in general with our digital world, we are now a lot more online; therefore making this field have much higher importance. Proposing ads on different platforms could have a real effect.
Lastly, using more reusable products should also contribute to fighting together climate change. We are thinking particularly to providing to young girls reusable pads in order to reduce the use of plastic pads; for removing makeup, using washable wipes; for couples with a child, using washable baby diapers... This should for instance appear in the publicities.

Matteo Varsalona  • 21 January 2021

La pollution est un problème grave, parcequ'il y a beaucoup de problèmes dans les usines où la pollution y est plus présente à cause des gaz, surtout dans les usines chimiques. La pollution dépend des propriétaires, qui ne s'occupent pas de l'entretien. Il y a beaucoup de cas de dommages aux poumons et système nerveux. Pour limiter ces dégâts, l'Etat et les sociétés doivent limiter les heures de travail et mettre à disposition des combinaisons contre les agents chimiques.
Pour la santė publique, il faut faire du recyclage et limiter l'utilisation du plastique, ce n'est pas du matériel organique. Contrôler les déchets plastiques que l'on retrouve dans les eaux de la mer parce que souvent les poissons de grande taille se nourrissent de ceux-ci. Ce qui entraîne un danger pour l homme, en effet ces poissons font aussi partie de l'alimentation humaine.
L'Etat devrait faire des campagnes de sensibilisation contre la pollution, chaque commune doit absolument optimiser au mieux leur système de ramassage et tri de leurs dechets, déchets toxiques et radioactifs compris, comme ceux que l'Etat italien veut envoyer en Sicile. Limiter l'utilisation de certaines substances chimiques et utiliser des filtres à l'intérieur des usines en limitant le rejet des gaz nocifs.

Antonino  • 21 January 2021

Climate change is one of the issues that most affect all the inhabitants of the earth, especially children, citizens of tomorrow, who will directly suffer the consequences of years of wrong behaviours. For this reason, a good idea would be to educate children to respect the planet during an early age, through targeted teaching that starts from school and from the family. Therefore, an application that every school or person can download could be useful, capable of teaching children and reminding adults, daily behaviours that contribute to pollute the planet. This app is already in the planning stage. It is a project I am sharing with two friends and we have already collected some of the sources and professional people for its successful development.

Felix Marchal  • 21 January 2021

I believe the best way to tackle an issue such as climate change is by implementing policies and goals that every European citizen and manufacturer can work towards. Most of the pollution could be stopped if everyone has their mind set on a clear and numbered objective. For example, these objectives could be a reduction in automobile emissions in urban areas (very simple) or making sure the manufacturers are slowly declining their emissions . Of course, this would be helped with a guideline to follow, adjusted to take into account the socio-economic differences of all European citizens. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to involve every political actor on every scale to put this kind of policy in place. A European deputy should be working towards a cleaner future as much as a mayor in a small suburban town should, for example.
Considering this issue affects everyone, policies such as the Green New Deal will have to be inclusive as to not let anyone get away with freeriding the efforts of other people. It is also important to understand that this kind of policy is one that takes time to see results, which could lead to some people thinking the efforts they are doing are useless when they are not. This could be helped with a European scale scientific team that will track results of the policy.

Kuninkaantie upper secondary school  • 21 January 2021

One way to reduce a country's emissions is decreasing waste and increasing the reusing of materials, circular economy. Since bottles are necessary everyday items used to pack and carry liquids, it is important that they won't go to waste but are recycled.

Many countries are already recycling bottles, but too ineffectively. This could be fixed by introducing a pant system and adding more reverse vending machines connected to grocery stores etc. A pant system would mean that different sized bottles have different pant value when brought to the recycling machine.

The EU has set a goal for recycled plastic bottles but an effective way to increase the recycling of also aluminium and other materials would be bringing a reasonable pant system to every country.

Another idea to lower emissions is to add more carbon sinks to cities. Green areas could be established on top of big buildings and apartment houses. Also parks and green areas on the street levels could be plated. In that way people’s lives and patterns wouldn't even have to change so much by ecological life changes, but the emissions would be compensated!

Linnea Jokinen  • 21 January 2021

One way to reduce a country's emissions is decreasing waste and increasing the reusing of materials, circular economy. Since bottles are necessary everyday items used to pack and carry liquids, it is important that they won't go to waste but are recycled.

Many countries are already recycling bottles, but too ineffectively. This could be fixed by introducing a pant system and adding more reverse vending machines connected to grocery stores etc. A pant system would mean that different sized bottles have different pant value when brought to the recycling machine.

The EU has set a goal for recycled plastic bottles but an effective way to increase the recycling of also aluminium and other materials would be bringing a reasonable pant system to every country.

Another idea to lower emissions is to add more carbon sinks to cities. Green areas could be established on top of big buildings and apartment houses. Also parks and green areas on the street levels could be plated. In that way people’s lives and patterns wouldn't even have to change so much by ecological life changes, but the emissions would be compensated!

Aldo Annetta  • 21 January 2021

Everybody know that our planet has been severely affected by greenhouse emissions . Everybody also know that the more time passes, the worse the siutuation gets. Althought some countries tend to reduce these emissions, others continue to ruin our planet .To try to achieve the target of becoming the first climate neutral continent by 2050, the UE could , whit particular attention to global companies ,fix bonuses for the countries that achieve good results in a short time and sanctions for the countries that don’t commit enough, pushing them to take more responsibility in theyr own interests as well.

Ariane Odoni, Julie Guillermet  • 21 January 2021

Many efforts are made for sustainable development on a global scale or on a local scale. But in the European Union, the awareness of the environmental challenge gave rise mostly to project grants and not so much to concrete actions. It would be utopian to create a worldwide international market environmentally friendly as countries don’t have the same environmental awareness around the globe. Similarly, creating each country’s own market would be effective because of globalization. As a matter of fact we import 20% of our goods from China and 14% from the USA.That is why a European market makes sense and why we suggest to relocate industry in Europe. It would reduce carbon emission primarily because the distance to transport goods would be shorter. Even if the commodity price will increase, it will create jobs and progressively increase purchasing power. At the same time, we could develop Europe's railway network which has less impact on the environment than container ships, air freight or trucks. Today, more than 20 millions of kilograms of waste are made daily and this number increases every year, this represents a considerable amount of waste to recycle. Instead of sending them in faraway countries we could ensure their recycling on a European scale which would reduce the carbon emission and allow us to better control the compliance with high level standards and regulations.

Noé Belghazi-Saison  • 21 January 2021

2020 has been a difficult year for each and every one of us, yet it provided the means for some people to think about the climate issues to be faced now and in the future. It is undeniable that the rising temperatures in some parts of the world are not a single manifestation of chaotic and meteorological phenomena, but an evident underlying and durable issue our society is already facing. The “Green Deal” adopted by the European union is what appears to be a great alternative to this major problem, since it sets up clear goals to be achieved by 2050: building a climate-neutral Europe.
However, to secure a clean environmental transition, we will have to ensure that certain economical, technological and infrastructural adaptations will be respected and followed by the member states of the European union. This adaptation to the climatic change is and will remain a collective effort, and it is in Europe’s best interest to make sure that nations follow the environmental guidelines of the Green Deal. That is why I think economic sanctions may be applied to the countries that refuse or are too slow or reluctant to ensure a clean environmental transition as part of the Green Deal. Moreover, the European Union could set up a specialised council in each big city of Europe, to verify and advise upon environmental issues and measures locally.
Europe could also provide education authorities with education days devoted to global warming, as part of any student’s scholarship, because knowledge of the current issues (even at a basic level) is crucial into making people and the younger generations act, and fight for our earth. The Green Deal is not only a set of measures adopted by the European Union, it is also a shift in the way we are thinking our consumerism society.
More than that, we can ourselves make a big difference, by making sure that we follow and apply, daily “green acts” such as using less our car, ensuring that we recycle correctly, or using as little energy and water as we possibly can. Even though this world tends to show us otherwise, we are still the actors of our future, and it is with determination and humility that we will improve the state of our planet, our nation.

Mariano Rinaldi  • 21 January 2021

One of the most dangerous threats to the environment is represented by plastic pollution.
Plastic pollution is slowly destroying the world we live in, and there are many proofs of its harmfulness: first of all, the production of halogen plastic releases toxic chemicals that contaminate groundwater, causing a great danger to all the species that drink this water.
Moreover, plastic pollution kills a lot of animals (especially the ones that live in the sea) by suffocating and trapping them. According to statistics, 800 animal species are at risk because of this.
Plastic particles have even formed toxic garbage islands floating on the sea, that are a serious risk to the marine ecosystems.
This needs to stop. We must not be so indifferent towards this dangerous pollution, that is killing the world we live in.
The most polluting forms of plastic are shopping bags and bottles, and because of this people should start using shopping bags made of cloth instead of plastic. Plastic bottles would be totally avoided if people drank water from local fountains. We must recycle all the other things that are necessarily made in plastic.
Everyone can do a few little things to protect the environment, but the states have to impose rules in favour of environmental protection.
Remember that we can save the world only if we are united and if we work together!
It's time to stop being so indifferent to the suffering of our planet, which is dying and is desperately asking for help! It's time to show that we care about this world, and as young people we have the duty to save it, because we could lose it all in the immediate future!

Paula Holmes  • 21 January 2021

If we were build a European green deal surrounding climate change we would focus on fast fashion.

the fast fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global greenhouse emissions every year between production, manufacturing and transportation. it emits 1.2 billion tons of CO2 per year. fast fashion is the second largest polluter in the world after the oil industry.

High carbon emissions, water pollution, large amounts of landfill waste, chemical waste, plastic and micro plastic pollution are just some of the big issues that stem from fast fashion

the UN predicts that by 2050 fashion could be responsible for a quarter of all global carbon emissions

fast fashion brands are also responsible of violating human rights of their workers producing their products. workers are underpaid, subjected to abuse, overworking, unsafe working conditions, sexual violence and torture. 1.5 trillion litres of water is used in the fashion industry every year while 750 million people worldwide do not have access to drinking water.

climate neutrality is impossible without immediate action against huge European based fast fashion companies. We propose that the European Parliament create legislation, tariffs and sanctions to reduce the detrimental impact of fast fashion on the environment. as harmful as imposing tariffs would be to the fashion industry, the climate crisis is a much more pressing, time sensitive issue.

we need to build higher awareness and change around this issue. some small things you can do as an individual are buy less, buy better quality clothing, recycle clothes and if purchasing, purchase from sustainable brands.

G Technical School Limassol CYPRUS  • 21 January 2021

Everyone has to accept challenges in life along the way. Covid 19 showed that nothing should be taken for granted. Instead we need to invest in environment and people.

We have to adopt a strategy that motivates people to change habits and be more environmental friendly. People can play a major role to tackle climate change through research among universities for better ways of living. We would like to see more innovative ideas starting from schools and students. We live in a country, Cyprus, blessed by the sun. Europe is blessed by sun. So why not to invest on solar energy and also to sources like wind and water? Local authorities could adopt policies which reward people who recycle. Why not develop networks among municipalities in Europe and exchange good practices? Why not be demanding citizens who protest about their city and speak as Greta Thunberg did.

The New European Bauhaus is a promising project in order to help deliver the European Green Deal. Future ways of live should be sustainable, pay attention to aesthetics and inclusiveness. In this context member states should implement every policy without excuse.

United we can make it happen!

Thank you
G Technical School Limassol, Cyprus CYEU

Hubert  • 21 January 2021

The best idea in my opinion is to inform older people because (at least in my opinion) the are the ones that don’t care about climat. They lived in times where people didn’t talk about carrying about planet.

Małgorzata Pach  • 22 January 2021

If I would start a young European Green Deal against climate change I would focus on changing people's mind about using coal or greenhouse gases. In some places people even burn plastic or other trash to make themselves warmer (maybe they think that this way it is cheaper). In my opinion some countries that are against changes connected with fighting against climate change must think about their future. Maybe it won't affect us that much, but we must think about our children or grandkids. What world will they live in if we won't start doing something about it? Our world will be destroyed because of global warming and right now we can't be selfish and try to do something about it. If some members States won't change then EU should impose sanctions on them. If we won't work together and there will be no punishment for not cooperating then what's the point? Global enterprises can be influenced by the EU, but also they won't make changes if there will be any additional costs, or they won't be supported by other companies.

Manuel Fuchs  • 22 January 2021

In our opinion dealing with climate change is currently one of the biggest concerns for the human race. Climate change is mostly being affected by us and we do have the power to stop it if we just all collectively decide to do something against it. If we do not, we are going to face some serious consequences the likes of which have never been seen before. For example, due to rising sea levels or other natural disasters caused by climate change, many people are going to be driven out of their homes and will be forced to migrate. If this occurs and we are not prepared for it, the outcome could be catastrophic. But we are sure the European Union will find a way to prevent this from happening, and we are very hopeful for our worlds future.

Geolukio  • 22 January 2021

Kristiina, Kia, Essi, Emilia

EU

The EU plays an important part in slowing and eventually stopping the world’s climate change. It is very important for each member of the European Union to do their part in reducing the greenhouse gas emissions.

We think that the EU should monitor the countries so that they would be more climate friendly. For an example: the countries that do their best to keep the environment clean should be rewarded. The countries that don’t do that, should be punished. The EU could organize a competition where people from all European countries could come up with different ideas to reduce emissions. The best idea should be rewarded and put into practice in all the countries.

The European Union should inform its member countries about climate change and how everyone can make better choices daily to, for example, decrease the use of fossil fuels.

The European Union should aim for these things:
cutting off fossil fuels
using more renewable energy
favoring environmentally friendly technology
improving public transportation
imposing flight taxes
creating more carbon sinks

Geolukio  • 22 January 2021

Look into the future by Tanja, Viljami and Petra

It is very important that our future generation can live in a clean environment. We want our children to be able to live in the same world as we live right now, in that same Finland with snowy winters we live in now. We want our children to have the opportunity to go skiing and ice skating.

People should learn from our good recycling system. For example, we have a deposit-refund system for soda cans and bottles. When you return the empty bottles to the store, you get 0.10-0.40 euros per bottle. The EU should invest in recycling, because recycling one aluminum can save 90 percent of the energy required to make a new one.

We should reduce carbon emissions, for example we should plant more trees because trees contribute their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration, conserving water, preserving soil, and supporting wildlife. During the process of photosynthesis, trees take in carbon dioxide and produce the oxygen we breathe.Also little things can make a difference, for example: unplug your electronics, live or travel with green energy, take shorter showers, do full loads of laundry, switch off the lights and take the stairs.

If we reduce carbon emissions, we can slow down climate change and have a better future!

Geolukio  • 22 January 2021

What worries us? - Saana and Jenni

Transferring from internal combustion engines to electric cars should happen step by step, because here in Finland cars are very necessary and everyone can’t afford an electric car. We can’t just jump from internal combustion cars to electric cars, there should be intermediate stages between them. Another thing is that electric cars are more climate friendly, but their manufacturing causes a lot of emissions.

Apartment heating creates a lot of climate emissions, because the weather is cold here and heating is required. We should invent new ways to heat our houses.
Traffic and heating produce, on average, more greenhouse gas emissions in Finland than e.g. in Central Europe because of the long distances and the colder climate.

Other, more global issues that we are worried about are
Polar glaciers are melting, which causes water levels to rise.
Global warming is causing many animals to become extinct.
Recycling system is still very poor in many countries.
Oceans are getting polluted.

Baptiste Arbet and Theophile Vernet  • 22 January 2021

Nowadays more and more citizens feel concerned about climate change and its issues. we can see this phenomenon with the climates walk organised by Greta Thunberg in 2018. However, we must not fall in the climate change instrumentalisation for economic purposes: greenwashing concept. We think that we need to adapt politics on differents scales indeed we can see today a real vision of global politics on environmental questions. However at a local level ( scale where action should be more relevant) citizen involment is minimal. This inaction is due to three factors: there is no link between the greenhouse gas emissions of a geographical area and the impacts caused by these emissions on that area. The second factor is that there is no link between generation's emissions and the impacts on themselves. The last factor is that people don't see any problems and therefore don't want change, which explains their inactivity. To answer to all these problems we will propose you our suggestions.

Our first idea would be to create a subsidy commission at the UN. The regions of the world most affected by climate change could propose sustainable development projects there. These will be developed by IPCC experts who will analyse them and define the means implemented to make them a reality (they will define the share of the total budget they will occupy for the climate).

The second solution we have thought of is the provision of state subsidies for electric bicycles. This would make them cheaper and provide a much greater incentive for people to buy and use them than their cars. For example, in big cities like Paris, where there are always traffic jams, the use of these bicycles would allow some people to go to work faster. This solution is possible and would allow the European Union to follow the example of the Netherlands where 36% of the population uses bicycles for daily journeys.

Our third idea would be for the state to provide financial support for each school. They would have to finance a sustainable project. The winner of the competition will be awarded significant funds to carry out his or her project. In addition, the state commits itself to finance 150 other projects at a lower cost. These competitions will be national for each country of the European Union. In addition to this aid, the state will offer to give conferences in each school to show the jobs of tomorrow in the context of climate change.

To conclude in these three ideas we respond to the problem of overly global policies and citizens who are not active enough, nevertheless we think it is important to have solidarity at the international level for the energy transition.Climate change will not endanger the planet no matter what happens, but the human species.

Baptiste Arbet et Théophile Vernet  • 22 January 2021

Nowadays more and more citizens feel concerned about climate change and its issues. we can see this phenomenon with the climates walk organised by Greta Thunberg in 2018. However, we must not fall in the climate change instrumentalisation for economic purposes: greenwashing concept. We think that we need to adapt politics on differents scales indeed we can see today a real vision of global politics on environmental questions. However at a local level ( scale where action should be more relevant) citizen involment is minimal. This inaction is due to three factors: there is no link between the greenhouse gas emissions of a geographical area and the impacts caused by these emissions on that area. The second factor is that there is no link between generation's emissions and the impacts on themselves. The last factor is that people don't see any problems and therefore don't want change, which explains their inactivity. To answer to all these problems we will propose you our suggestions.

Our first idea would be to create a subsidy commission at the UN. The regions of the world most affected by climate change could propose sustainable development projects there. These will be developed by IPCC experts who will analyse them and define the means implemented to make them a reality (they will define the share of the total budget they will occupy for the climate).

The second solution we have thought of is the provision of state subsidies for electric bicycles. This would make them cheaper and provide a much greater incentive for people to buy and use them than their cars. For example, in big cities like Paris, where there are always traffic jams, the use of these bicycles would allow some people to go to work faster. This solution is possible and would allow the European Union to follow the example of the Netherlands where 36% of the population uses bicycles for daily journeys.

Our third idea would be for the state to provide financial support for each school. They would have to finance a sustainable project. The winner of the competition will be awarded significant funds to carry out his or her project. In addition, the state commits itself to finance 150 other projects at a lower cost. These competitions will be national for each country of the European Union. In addition to this aid, the state will offer to give conferences in each school to show the jobs of tomorrow in the context of climate change.

To conclude in these three ideas we respond to the problem of overly global policies and citizens who are not active enough, nevertheless we think it is important to have solidarity at the international level for the energy transition.Climate change will not endanger the planet no matter what happens, but the human species.

Scarselli lisa  • 22 January 2021

Climate change is increasingly affecting our planet .Nevertheless, many people seem to pay no attention to it. To change this, I think we should start by buying products that contain less plastic and above all think about recycling them. To continue, I think we should organize environnemental days in school to raise awareness among students as much as possible. Furthermore, we know that climate change is linked to pollution which is generally caused by smoke and gases produced by factories, cars, businesses, non-renewable energy sources. One of the solution to this problem would be first use the car when it is really necessary or to promote public transport or carpooling in order to limit the number of cars. Secondly, promote the use of renewable energy sources in homes.

Liliana Sidorova  • 22 January 2021

It is well known that cars cause a huge amount of carbon emissions every year which impacts the raise of average temperature.
In Mexico the special paint “Airlite” is being used to purify polluted air through a process similar to photosynthesis.
What I advise is to spread this paint to other countries as well. It can be used for marking the roads or painting road borders, during the construction or reconstruction. In a year, just one painting, reduces emissions from over 60000 cars and paint is active up to 10 years. Using it in larger amount, would impact the situation globally.

Sarah Gruszow Bærentzen  • 22 January 2021

A beginning could be, that EU doesn't spend more the 3.6 million euros on the “Become a Beefatarian” campaign. It is absurd to encourage citizens to eat more meat and it does not harmonize with the EU aiming to be climate-neutral by 2050.

INSTITUT ESCOLA JACINT VERDAGUER  • 22 January 2021

Provide all 11-year-old people who menstruate reusable pads and a free menstrual cup in order to reduce the use of the one only use plastics like pads and tampons.

Simone Di Petrillo  • 22 January 2021

Cercare di ambietarsi

Anssi Eboreime  • 23 January 2021

My ideas for a European Green Deal:
- CO2 taxes
- Deregulating private use, purchase and construction on wind and solar energy sources.
- funding shifts and regulating a sort of general shift, towards carbon farming
- Completing the Capital Markets Union and making investment across the EU easier, since more money is already flowing into green sources, if it is made easier the sums go even further up
- Funding Thorium and SMR research.
- Funding nuclear recycling research
- Adding nuclear power onto the Green energies list.

François  • 23 January 2021

In my opinion, the European institutions should show the citizens of the 27 states free by adopting responsible measures and habits and in accordance with the green deal policy.
For example, the company cars of European officials, whether in starsbourg luxembourg, franckfurt or brussels, are electric. As for the institutions themselves that their water or electricity resources are renewable like solar energy or rainwater. These actions could then give a strong message to the citizens of Europe and a beautiful message for the launch of the green deal policy.
This gesture coming from the institutions themselves will then allow to go further, that is to say to focus on the states themselves. By initiating a green policy step by step the latter will be more effective.
And with time this policy will be able to harden and will be able to sanction the Member States or the regions at the national level which does not respect the European program. The regions but also the private sector which would pollute or have a much too high greenhouse gas emission.

Matthias W.  • 23 January 2021

Focus: The focus should actually be on easing business, with the right fram work for environmental improvement. Less bureacracy within the entire EU will boost innovation. We have a lot of good smart minds here, but often they go to places where it is easier to get companies started because of bureacracy within the EU. The goals should be clear and the process easy. The penalties should also be high. The incentive to innovate here hould be great. With the goal to make it easy for people to find the solutions for our crisis.

Encourage: Reform the EU. When you want the support of the people you have to give the decision to the people. Make the EU for Europeans. E.g. allow paneuropean parties in the EU-parliament elections. This would change the national political discussion to an discussion within the entire EU. You would not see the EU fron a nationalistic lense (with all nationalistic problems, like parties that only use the EU-parliament elecetions to make propaganda for national elections), but establishes a shared political identity. We would agree or disagree with people no matter which country and vote for the (in our opinion) best parties to be in the parliament. To clearify. I mean that the parties can be formed, located and composed of any European citizens. No national parties representing Euroepans anymore. Also, the direct election of the EU-commission president. This would also make people feel directly represented, which in turn encourages all of us to stick to the decided goals. When they don´t feel like they are being imposed on us, but were our choices we try to stick to them and reach them.

Sanctions: See point 2. It depends how the measurements are implemented. Sanctioning of imposed goals will not be taken in a good way. Sanctions for not reaching a goal you agreed yourself to is way mroe accepted and should be done.

Influenced: Of course they can. There are plenty of examples worldwide of good incentives or regulations. Easy and effective.

Theodor Ilie  • 23 January 2021

- We should focus on building more sustainable: to stop the import from contries over an ocean away. Producing more on EU teritory. Encurage local business to use local materials, to build their one products more durable and easy to repair, to search for a new recipe with new ingredients.
- Support the adapter, keep helping the one's that chose to reach that level. Is time for action not for point at the rotten apple.
- Depends on how hard they try, if you not even trying. It can be easy money to use in other sectors.
- We are all in the same boat, we are all sinking. We all the help available to repair it.

Chris Delis  • 24 January 2021

The idea of using renewable sources of energy is widely thought the best way to have the nature by our side and reduce the level of C02 on our planet. We all have seen the huge wind generators standing on the top of the mountains. It is commonly thought that generators have an important impact on taking advantage of the renewable sources of energy. In fact wind generators are a serious enemy of nature. After several studies results have demonstrated that the price of the machines are massive and overcome the “accepted price” for environmental improvement . Also the generators last from 2 to 4 years. Those "giants" after some time, are getting buried in very big wind generators dump.
It would be a significant improvement in the field of technology and environmental studies if watermills replaced wind generators. From the ancient years (ex. Egypt, Greece) civilizations used watermills with the aim of having water supply in their home. With the pressure of water, watermills will produce electricity. In order to achieve that it would be a good idea if all countries of the world contribute to the “race” of making the planet a better place. Especially countries with powerful economy could take the responsibility of investing on watermills. Seasides would be the perfect spot to build a watermill. The results could be beneficial for everyone .This is a possible solution to avoid spending money and energy . and reduce the emission of carbon. These idea will have a positive impact on our planet. For example greenhouse effect will find a serious “enemy”. Finally all humans will be taking advantage of the beauty of our nature while making the earth better for us and for the upcoming generations.

Orlane Pesme  • 24 January 2021

Most of us are aware of the negative effects that human activity has on the climate. Despite this, the mentality does not seem to be changing.
In my opinion, we should not only educate about this matter from a very young age but also the elderly in order to change our consumption and lifestyle. Moreover, "low-tech" should be more developed and promoted than high-tech, which does not take into account social and environmental issues. Low-tech, on the other hand, seeks to create "useful", accessible and sustainable objects.
In addition, in the fiel of construction for example, we can turn to eco-design techniques. Such as the use of adobe (earth) which does not require combustion, comes from local ressources and has a good thermal inertia. Futhermore, still in thermal insulation, wood and straw are an effective combination. With the efficient use of bio-sources materials, we can limit the environmental footprint of a building site. Low-tech processes are real assets for the future. However, the help of public authorities is necessary because the obstacles are not only financial and technical but also regulatory and cultural.
Finally, some reseach published in Nature Climate Change, has shown that new technology will not save us, we need to focus more on the cultural, social and political aspects. Michael and Joyce Huesemann emphasis this idea in their book: Techno-Fix: Why Technology Won't Save Us or the Environment. For them, relying on new technologies is a "suicidal mission".

Francesca Sestito  • 25 January 2021

IN ORDER TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE, WE HAVE TO CHANGE OUR LIFESTYLE. WE SHOULD BEGIN FROM OUR DAILY LIFE, FOR EXAMPLE, BUYING RE-USABLE PRODUCTS AND NOT ONLY DISPOSABLE THINGS. IN ADDITION, WE SHOULD BUY LOCAL AND BIOLOGICAL FOOD. IF WE WANT TO REDUCE POLLUTION, IT IS NECESSARY TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTS OR BYCICLES. THESE ARE ALL "SMALL" ADVICES WE ALL SHOULD FOLLOW... BUT THEY CAN BRING "GREAT" RESULTS.

Francesca Sestito  • 25 January 2021

IN ORDER TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE, WE HAVE TO CHANGE OUR LIFESTYLE. WE SHOULD BEGIN FROM OUR DAILY LIFE, FOR EXAMPLE, BUYING RE-USABLE PRODUCTS AND NOT ONLY DISPOSABLE THINGS. IN ADDITION, WE SHOULD BUY LOCAL AND BIOLOGICAL FOOD. IF WE WANT TO REDUCE POLLUTION, IT IS NECESSARY TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTS OR BYCICLES. THESE ARE ALL "SMALL" ADVICES WE ALL SHOULD FOLLOW... BUT THEY CAN BRING "GREAT" RESULTS.

Maria Teresa Perruccio  • 25 January 2021

I think that an important step forward to fight climate change is to organize the administration of waste materials in a better way. More funds for the companies and organizing the work of employees is necessary to reduce pollution.

Gabriele Garieri  • 25 January 2021

In my opinion, in order to change the destiny of our planet, it is necessary to reinforce the controls of all industries, farms, and homes, in particular for the disposal of rubbish and use of the renewable energy sources

Athanasios  • 27 January 2021

The government, let alone a transnational entity, should under no circumstances have such great control over the individual, whether it is through controls on consumption or production.

Manmade climate change is real. Yes, it is a fact that we may have a few more natural disasters in our future, than we would otherwise have, but what has been pretty effective in curbing the effects of those catastrophes on human lives, is industrialization and modern technology.
Any attempt to limit human productivity, which is the only reasonable result of any government action on this matter, can only serve to harm the well being of mankind. Thus one could rightfully claim, that any attempts at stopping climate change, by means of coordinated action against human production, are misanthropic in nature.

In fact technology is at a point where through nuclear energy and electric vehicles, in the near future we will probably be a able to limit our fossil fuel dependance, to the point where it is practically non-existant. Unfortunately the governments of Europe, except that of France, have done a great deal to sabotage the spread of the former. Proving once again that government intervention is the problem, not the solution.

Alas! It is morally right to "save the earth" when it is done voluntarily and for the benefit of mankind. Framing the issue this way, leaves no room for government action, whether it is local, national or transnational.

Felix H.  • 27 January 2021

Climate change is increasingly affecting our planet. Nevertheless, many people seem to pay no attention to it. To change this, I think we should start by buying products that contain less plastic and above all think about recycling them. To continue, I think we should organize environnemental days in school to raise awareness among students as much as possible. Furthermore, we know that climate change is linked to pollution which is generally caused by smoke and gases produced by factories, cars, businesses, non-renewable energy sources. One of the solution to this problem would be first use the car when it is really necessary or to promote public transport or carpooling in order to limit the number of cars. Secondly, promote the use of renewable energy sources in homes.

V. Heemskerk  • 30 January 2021

Start focussing on nuclear energy instead of solar and wind. Combine everything, but focus in nuclear.

Do not force memberstates to be climate neutral in 2050. Move this to 2070 or 2100 to give memberstates more time to adjust and adjust more efficient, without putting monney in the wrong energy sources.

V. Heemskerk  • 30 January 2021

Start focussing on memberstates like poland who are not doing anything to prevent climate change, instead of focussing on well-willing countries who do do a lot to prevent it. Focus on those where the biggest gain is possible.

Lucía Cordón Losada  • 09 February 2021

The COVID-19 has been bothering us for almost one year.
Our lives have been interrupted in all aspects. Some global important problems, like global warming or the removal of garbage of the oceans have been forgotten for a while.
I am interested in how Europe is going to act to solve this enviroment questions.

Alaia  • 09 February 2021

Although we are all aware of the negative effects our actions have on the environment, we don't seem to be willing to change our lifestyles in order to slow down climate change.
In my view, not enough importance is given to the environment and the damage we are doing to it. I live in an area whose main economic activity until the 1990s was mining. When this whole industry closed down, nobody cared about all the rubble and waste that was left at the gates of the mines. Today, our region is surrounded by huge mountains of rubble and the water in our rivers still has a blackish tinge because of the coal.
On the other hand, we are starting to promote the use of renewable energies. Our mountains are being filled with windmills and all those thermal power stations are starting to be dismantled, thus avoiding a great deal of harmful gases for our atmosphere and, consequently, for the environment.
Yet this is not enough. Many members of the European Union, and of the world, should follow the example of countries such as Norway, Sweden and Germany, promoters of responsible development.
The European Union could promote a series of laws or decrees that force its members to change their lifestyles to a more efficient and responsible one. This is a very difficult task and some countries may not comply, in which case, legal methods and sanctions should be used to express the need for this change. We are in a situation of extreme urgency and with the global pandemic we have been involved in for almost a year now, everything to do with the environment has been put on the back burner. We could gradually become more sustainable and environmentally conscious countries.

3.C Gimnazija Pula  • 10 February 2021

„Guided by a saying of Mahatma Gandhi „ Be the change you want to see in the world“ we think that changes need to come from local commuinty. It's easy to detect problems, but offering solutions is hard and lacking in our society. We suggest to close the traffic in city center of Pula. We to encourage using public transport and bicycles. We appeal to city authorities to close the city center and build a big parking garage at the entrance of the city. By that we would reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The problem of coming to town would be solved with electrical buses that would constantly transport people. We want to point out the lack of bike paths in our city. That would be solved by closing city center. It's not ideal solution but every change even a smallest one is a step forward.“

Gimnazija Pula  • 10 February 2021

Since the change should always begin from our own community, to reduce the effects of global warming we can change some of our everyday habits and systems. What concerns us the most in Pula is that Kaštijun is the only place specified for the disposal of large waste. Due to wrong estimations and a decreasing budget, Kaštijun's work is based on losses. It is increasing the bills of citizens, that at the same time have no appropriate place for large waste disposal, so it is piling up at the shores of Valelunga, Portić, Zonka and other places around Pula. Modernization of the landfill's system is needed, and also a way to use the fuel and biowaste that is extracted by processing the waste. The money made from that investment should then be invested in promotion of the service. By doing that, we would reduce the emission of the harmful gasses that are currently sky high, which is of course favorable for the environment, the atmosphere and the health of the citizens. Furthermore, the investment into recycling could also solve the problem of heating in our homes, by the example of the waste incinerator in Wien. (Jakov Benčić, Lara Plastić, Mara Kirin, Carla Rosanda, Leonarda Jakovljević, Martina Pahljina i Sara Baračić)

Ayante Fernández  • 10 February 2021

In Spain, we have been producing a lot of energy by using renewable sources.. My idea is using the facilities where indutries have been closed to put renewable sources such as photovoltaic cells. Also, we can give unemployed people an oportunity, thanks to the implementation of companies that produce the components of those cells. I got this idea because in my region, there were two thermal power plants that have been closed down. And I saw that this could be an oportunity to use the facilities of those power plants to help the country, because even though we have lots of wind towers and we used to live thanks to the mine coals, we want the best to our region, our country and our planet.

Ines Dukić  • 11 February 2021

Even though Green Deal’s main goal is to achieve environmental benefits, I see Green Deal not only as environmental but primary as an economic plan. It would be naive to rely on altruism and goodwill only; new measures must have economic benefits in addition to ecological ones. Therefore, I consider the circular economy as the economic model of the future. To be specific, I am particularly interested in renting as a way to improve quality of life. Today it is common to rent an apartment or a car, but we need to think beyond that. We could rent anything from clothes to electric devices. Numerous people can use the same product (reuse), and when the product is used up, they can return it to the producer who will use its components for new products (recycle). This model might be appealing to both costumers and producers since it represents a compromise of excessive buying and sustainable waste disposal. Since environmental issues are global and not just local concerns, this approach can give results only if the whole community adopts it. One company is not enough, one person is not enough.
How can government and EU help? Tax breaks for those who use this economic model and raised taxes for those who don’t may encourage switching to the circular economy, just as financial injections for a transition period. Furthermore, there should be educations and campaigns promoting it in order to acknowledge the benefits of this system.

Rahela  • 11 February 2021

In the future, we would like to see more green spaces in the centers of big cities. Not only is the presence of green areas good for air quality, but also for residents who want to get away from buildings, asphalt, traffic and escape into the nature. Likewise, the destruction of the city's green areas should be banned and it should be determined exactly where in the city should be the areas meant for construction of buildings, and where for parks, forests and nature walks. Our proposal is for the authorities to repeatedly donate seedlings to citizens in order to encourage them to plant. We also believe that it would be desirable to educate citizens on how we can grow our own food (fruits, vegetables, spices) which would result in more greenery on private lands while afforestation actions should be organized to create more green areas in  public lands. It would also be useful to plant trees, hedges and ornamental plants near children's playgrounds so that children are surrounded by greenery early in their youth.

Simon Meyer  • 12 February 2021

In favor of the green deal, perhaps can we increase the surface of ​​protected natural areas (or natural parks). This could reshuffle an ecosystem (protected species, etc.) and reduce CO2 (via photosynthesis of plants, etc.).
The only constraint is to don't impact the environment by humans (except perhaps the regulation of predators). This is easily conceivable (requires however a vast territory).

Maja  • 12 February 2021

To keep our environment clean, we can do following. Our authorities should put pressure on companies and organizations to reduce their waste by taking care of their promotional materials. It would mean reduced production of leaflets (considering most of them end up as waste) and more ads made of recycled materials. Maybe we need to search for alternatives in promotion, such as using QR codes.

GUIAS Apolline  • 20 February 2021

As young people, we are directly concerned by the fashion industry, which is one of the most polluting fields. The idea of a greener and more responsible consumption is developing around the world and it begins to have a real impact. However, big brands use this movement as a trend to improve more and more their profit. What about real regulations in the fashion industry ? Can we stop "green washing" which is not a solution for our planet. Trading, recycling and reusing need to be more developed. Thank you !

hanane  • 22 February 2021

the EU could impose sanctions on Member States who fail to work towards these new targets, because we all need to fight for a better environment! If we don't respect or fail to improve it, we should be sanctioned, it could motivate people to change their behaviors.
The focus should actually be on facilitating business with the right FRAM work to improve the environment, and also focus on building more sustainable in order to stop the import from countries over an ocean away. Producing more on EU territory. Fewer offices in the EU will improve innovation. We have a lot of good, bright minds here, but they often go to places where it's easier to start businesses because of the boom within the EU. The incentive to innovate should be great. With the aim of making it easier for people to find solutions to our crisis.
Of course, they can succeed. There are many examples of good incentives or rules around the world. Simple and effective. . In addition, citizens / residents could fight climate change by changing our lifestyle, for example by buying reusable products and not just disposable items.

Bérénice  • 23 February 2021

Transports are ranked 2nd most polluting field at the moment. Though we live in a globalised world that enhances the use of planes and boats, the EU should promote local consumption and set goals of improving transports such as cars in an eco-friendly way, with the help of experts.

Judith  • 24 February 2021

In order to act against the global warming I believe that countries should use more/only renewable energies like solar power, wind power and hydropower.
Moreover I believe that it is important to reduce the number of waste produced each year, in particular by developing and improving recycling.

andriana  • 04 March 2021

As young people, we would like to make a significant change in our environment. Therefore, a possible contribution to this would be the reduction of air pollution, by sponsoring various industries, such as car business to produce electric cars, which are "green", meaning they are environmentally friendly.

Pia Pia Raufeisen  • 05 March 2021

In Germany, we are spoiled. For example, we have a system in which used bottles are given back to the supermarket to be renewed/ recycled and used again. This is a good method to not throw all the plastic bottles away and to reduce plastic, which is also contributing to the miserable environmental situation.
But there are other things that need to be done. Public traffic should be improved to make people go to work by train and not by car. Therefore, traffic and the emissions would be reduced.
Further, the communication and will to make compromises should be improved in the EU. They seem to be so separated by their different beliefs and opinions that it would be hard to find a consensus. Therefore, I would recommend them, to think wisely and together about clear laws which everyone has to oblige. And if they hesitate, there need to sanctions. I believe, that a good, just and fair, but strict climate policy is the only way how we may overcome this crisis.
Another point which I wanted to write about is the improvement of renewable energies which is obligated for every state in the EU.
Sorry, for my kindergarten englisch, but best wishes from Germany!

Jul  • 06 March 2021

Regarding environmental issues, it is only through electrification and a change in the electricity mix that we can decarbonise our economy. To date, nuclear power is the only reliable and low carbon energy source, meaning it is the indispensable condition to contain temperature rise while maintaining our standard of developed economy. In addition to renewables, the EU must side with nuclear energy!

Weronika  • 15 April 2021

It is worth bearing in mind the changing environment and climate. I believe that to counter global warming, countries should use more renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower.
In addition, I believe it is important to reduce the amount of waste generated each year, in particular by developing and improving recycling. To the benefit of the green deal, perhaps we can increase the area of ​​protected natural areas. This can result in ecosystem reshuffling and reduction of CO2 emissions.

Violeta  • 16 April 2021

Regarding the topic of climate change, there are many things that still have to improve.
For example, in order to solve the issue which is pollution with public transport, we must change cities so that public transport is the default instead of cars, because people will most likely change when a better alternative is shown to what they are used to.

With the pollution that is caused by the growing fashion industry, fast fashion has been the leading industry because of the price compared to other more sustainable brands. We must change the way we buy and instead of going for quantity and how cheap an item is, go for lasting attire that is a more sustainable option. Those who are able to afford sustainable brands must try to buy from them, and brands must try to change the way they get their energy and take into consideration their workers.
These brands should also be promoted by social media platforms so that more people can take action.

However, there are countries that don't care for climate change as they don't see it as a threat to their life, so leading countries should try to make them realize that if all countries don't work together against the grave issue that is climate change, nothing will happen in the end.
We need to make people realize that if they change, they will be in a better position than before. We as citizens must take action towards climate change, and take responsibility for the world we live in.

Jkaub  • 16 April 2021

Hallo, I think we should ban plastic or use it more wisely. In the old times we didn't have plastic. How come we use it so much now.

Dimitris  • 22 April 2021

More nuclear power as its a cleanner form of producing energy with the minimum environmental footprint.

Any thoughts on this idea?

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