MEMO/12/177
Brussels, 9 March 2012
Statement by Commissioner Potočnik following Environment Council Conclusions on Rio +20
Following Environment Council Conclusions on Rio +20, Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik said:
"Today I got a clear mandate from European Environment Ministers to prepare the path to the Rio +20 conference in June – only 3 months away.
In line with the request of the European Heads of States and governments in the European council, we agreed on five priority areas for operational targets and concrete actions. These are sustainable energy, water, sustainable land management and eco systems, oceans and resource efficiency; with a particular focus on waste. We believe these areas are crucial in developing an inclusive green economy with opportunities for green economic growth, poverty eradication and environmental protection for all.
I will actively engage with our global partners to take the process forward towards a positive outcome for all in Rio."
