Climate and growth go hand in hand

200 of the 600 billion DKK which are to be spent on research and innovation in Europe, are dedicated climate-related projects in the period 2014-2020.

Connie Hedegaard states: "This is an achievement I'm proud of. I am absolutely convinced that we in Europe can do even better in the global competition, if we become better at working together and pool our efforts on creating a more green growth."

And it is needed. As Connie Hedegaard writes, we cannot compete on wages, working hours or retirement. And we lag behind in relation to productivity and a host of other parameters of competition.

"These things do not change quickly - the Europeans are happy about their welfare benefits and short working hours. Therefore, it is crucial that we invest in our industrial strengths and continue to be among the best to get new ideas and translate these into products and services that can enter the market. "This is the basis for the Commission's initiative" Horizon 2020."

Connie Hedegaard writes that the proposal presented, is a good example of how growth and employment go hand in hand with stronger climate action.
With the right policies we can combat the economic crisis here and now, while creating more sustainable and durable growth in Europe, she concludes.

Source: Børsen, 5 December 2011