Zero Pollution: Can we achieve a Net Zero World without it?

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One of the goals of zero pollution is to support the transition to a clean, climate-neutral and circular economy. As part of this movement towards a net zero transition, can we deploy innovative technologies and practices where pollution prevention and reduction goes hand in hand with reducing greenhouse gases?  How can we move towards zero pollution that will benefit citizen’s health and the quality of life as well as reduce inequalities as the most vulnerable are often most affected by pollution?

The target 7 under the new Global Biodiversity Framework sets out, for the first time, a ‘zero pollution objective’ at global level. Climate change can make pollution challenges more complex, as the 2022 Oder river ecological disaster showed.  Can we increase the resilience of our nature and biodiversity as pollution is one of the main threats to ecosystem health?

To help achieve the zero pollution objective, a number of important enablers are needed, financing, enforcement but also research and innovation. The recent Commission legislative proposals linked to the zero pollution agenda will drive innovation and needs for cleaner solutions in the area of industrial emissions and urban wastewater. How can we secure the necessary investments and offer new business opportunities for such innovative technologies? 

The environment goods and services sector has been very resilient during crises and outperforms the wider economy. The clean water, waste and remediation sector alone employs about 1 million people and is increasingly looking for new talent. How can we ensure that green education and skills are developed so that Europe can sustain its leading role in clean technologies?

The panel discussion will focus on benefits, challenges and on the enablers for achieving zero pollution as part of delivering a net zero world.