No 72/2015
4 December 2015
COP21 – It must be a "game changer"
EESC again reminds world leaders that failure is not an option
In the hot phase of the COP21 talks the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)
again urges world leaders to deliver an ambitious, legally-binding agreement that will be
consistent with the overall objective of keeping global warming below the 2°C threshold.
"I call on the responsibility of European and world leaders and want to remind them that COP21 is
decisive for the future of our planet and in particular the people who live on it. When you are
serious with the Sustainable Development Goals, when you are serious with fighting poverty, then
you have to act now. Failure is not an option", was EESC President Georges Dassis again very clear
and powerful in his message to the negotiators at COP21.
The EESC has been active in the field of climate change for years, following climate negotiations
and drafting recommendations for European policy makers. Its key positions for COP21 include:
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delivering a legally-binding, ambitious framework that applies to all countries on the basis
of common but differentiated responsibilities;
boosting the transition of all economies to low or zero carbon patterns;
delivering on solidarity and support for developing countries, notably the most vulnerable;
ensuring a fair transition, which takes into account social dialogue, workers' and human
rights;
fully involving civil society and citizens as the drivers of a sustainable change at global,
national and subnational levels.
Civil Society in the driving seat for implementing the Paris agreement
Citizens and civil society at large are ready to drive a just accord which will address climate
disruptions and improve human wellbeing. Their contribution is crucial to step up action and
accelerate the transition to a low carbon economy and society. In many communities across Europe
and beyond, civil society organisations are already making this transition a reality. It is clear that
their role and involvement will be essential for implementing the decisions taken in Paris.
Legally-binding, fair and supportive for developing countries
For the EESC, the agreement must be legally-binding, clear and transparent and equipped with a
regular monitoring and review mechanism in order to strengthen mitigation commitments but also
to react quickly on possible wrong trends. Switching to low carbon economies must not be a zerosum game where workers in some emission-intensive sectors lose out and social inequalities
increase. To make it successful, social dialogue is crucial. COP21 must deliver on climate finance, in
particular on the $100bn commitment made by industrialised countries for backing low carbon
development patterns in poorer countries.
COP21 to lead to a decarbonised future
Reducing CO2 emissions close to zero has to be at the heart of an economic transition. Possible
instruments for boosting this development include greening fiscal systems, phasing out fossil fuel
subsidies while promoting sustainable renewable energy sources, strengthening research and
innovation at European level, supporting exchange of best practices and knowledge.
Greening the economy must be a universal effort which Europe could lead. Carbon pricing is a
powerful tool in this respect, provided that it is designed considering environmental, economic and
social criteria.
Rue Belliard/Belliardstraat 99 – 1040 Bruxelles/Brussel – BELGIQUE/BELGIË
Tel. +32 2 546 9779 – Fax +32 25469764
E-mail: press@eesc.europa.eu – Internet: www.eesc.europa.eu
Follow the EESC on
EN
On Saturday, 5 December the EESC Workers' Group will organise a side event at COP21 (Pavilion
of the European Union) on the topic of decarbonisation, introducing a new study (soon available) –
"Fighting against climate change: a carbon price based on economic and social criteria". The study
will be presented by President Georges Dassis along with Gabriele Bischoff, President of the
Workers' Group.
For more information, please contact:
Silvia Aumair
E-mail: press@eesc.europa.eu
Tel: +32 2 546 8141
@EESC_PRESS
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The European Economic and Social Committee is an institutional consultative body established by the 1957 Treaty of Rome. The
Committee has 350 members from across Europe, who are appointed by the Council of the European Union. It represents the
various economic and social components of organised civil society. Its consultative role enables its members, and hence the
organisations they represent, to participate in the EU decision-making process.
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Rue Belliard/Belliardstraat 99 – 1040 Bruxelles/Brussel – BELGIQUE/BELGIË
Tel. +32 2 546 9779 – Fax +32 25469764
E-mail: press@eesc.europa.eu – Internet: www.eesc.europa.eu
Follow the EESC on