“The supposed ‘COP of climate finance’ has turned into the ‘COP of false solutions. The terrible deal on finance destroys the notion of historical responsibility of the rich big polluting countries and pushes private debt creating finance. Global North countries are no longer obligated to provide finance to the Global South as enshrined in the Paris Agreement. COP29 also put a final nail in the coffin, opening the door to the global carbon market and the disastrous impacts for communities and ecosystems. We have seen the impacts of these schemes: land grabs, Indigenous Peoples rights and human rights violations and more.”
In December 2019, the European Commission (EC) presented the European Green Deal (EGD), a “new growth strategy” consisting of a broad and ambitious roadmap aiming to “transform the EU into a fair and prosperous society, with a modern, resource-efficient and competitive economy”. It’s main aim is to “make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, boosting the economy, improving people’s health and quality of life, caring for nature, and leaving no one behind”.
Plans under the Green Deal include:
- A new European Climate Law (the first draft was published in March 2020)
- A 50-55% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (previously 40%)
- A circular economy action plan
- A flagship building renovation programme
- A new biodiversity strategy to tackle deforestation, soil and water pollution
- A healthier agricultural system, with reduced use of chemical pesticides, fertilisers and antibiotics
- A low-carbon transport sector, with more electric vehicles and hybrid fuels
Source: Press Release on ec.europa.eu
The Youth from across Europe have raised their voices
As a result of joint forces from multiple organisations we are pleased to present ‘The Youth Proposal for a Green Deal for Europe’. This proposal highlights the need for change, the need for a better future that is socially just and ecologically sound. Not only must our future include healthier environments, restoration of the commons and reduced pollution, we are pushing for better access to education, a respect for different cultural backgrounds and the redistribution of wealth to support the Global South. This is not just a vision for the future of the environment, it is one for people across the world to bring forth climate justice and social justice.
Read ‘The Youth Proposal for a Green Deal for Europe’ by clicking the PDF below!
Read the visions for a socially just and more sustainable future here!
System Reset: what is it?
We are part of a pan-European project, led by Friends of the Earth groups in Malta, Ireland, Denmark, Estonia, North Macedonia, Cyprus, Spain, Croatia and Austria. Our aim is to build platforms across Europe to bring young people from under-represented communities into multi-levelled decision-making and build strong, collective visions for a socially just and ecologically sound future. We strive for intersectionality and inclusiveness.
If you want to learn more about ongoing Young Friends of the Earth events, visit their page.
Our Blog
How Azerbaijan’s Leadership Cast a Shadow Over COP29
“The supposed ‘COP of climate finance’ has turned into the ‘COP of false solutions. The terrible deal on finance destroys the notion of historical responsibility of the rich big polluting countries and pushes private debt creating finance. Global North countries are no longer obligated to provide finance to the Global South as enshrined in the Paris Agreement. COP29 also put a final nail in the coffin, opening the door to the global carbon market and the disastrous impacts for communities and ecosystems. We have seen the impacts of these schemes: land grabs, Indigenous Peoples rights and human rights violations and more.”
Why do people use micromobility?
Find out why Sergio moves around on rollerblades, Jonathan takes his kids to school by cargo bike, and Nazlican goes to work with an e-kick scooter. Let’s celebrate the multiple benefits of micromobility
What’s the Climate COP and why do we call for it to go Fossil Free?
Climate change is here, and its effects are already felt around the world. Over the past year, we have witnessed the hottest months on record. COP stands for the Conference of the Parties, which is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
What is micromobility?
Meet Martina, Jonathan, Corinne and others to find out how they move around their city on their bike, on foot, wheelchair, scooter, roller skates and even a cargo bike!
Climate Emotions Support Group
Amidst news about heat waves, extreme weather events and climate chaos, it is easy to despair. However, there is nothing as powerful as collective action to show we are not alone and that solutions for a brighter future exist.
Friends of the Earth Malta is bringing together hopeful visions for Malta’s future in a zine ‘Imagining a Fossil Free Malta’ to share inspiration and calls to action
Looking back at our Urban Cycling Skills Training & Group Ride
As the Erasmus+ funded project comes to its concluding months, in September Friends of the Earth Malta participated in the final transnational meeting of Blooming Schools hosted by Station Europe in Bucharest. The project aims to increase awareness and biodiversity especially in secondary schools by empowering young people to take action for nature.
Micromobility: Part of the solution, not the pollution
Monday 16 September marked the start of European Mobility Week (EMW) – the European Commission’s yearly awareness-raising campaign on sustainable urban mobility. However, we observed complete radio silence from our government, when the urgency to promote sustainable mobility in Malta has never been greater.
What climate action? Malta’s alarming rise in greenhouse gas emissions
Malta is once again at the top of the list of a troubling trend: the fastest rise in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the European Union. According to Eurostat, Malta’s GHG emissions surged by 8.8% from the first quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. The EU carbon emissions reduction target is -55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. Malta’s target is already a minor contribution to that: -19% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. The recent news about Malta’s rising GHG emissions begs the question: how on earth does the government envision we reach that target in the coming 5 years?
Waiting List: Climate Emotions and Eco Anxiety Training
Amidst news about heat waves, extreme weather events and climate chaos, it is easy to despair. However, there is nothing as powerful as collective action to show we are not alone and that solutions for a brighter future exist.
Friends of the Earth Malta is bringing together hopeful visions for Malta’s future in a zine ‘Imagining a Fossil Free Malta’ to share inspiration and calls to action
An insight into the Climate Care Camp in Denmark
Vera, a dedicated environmental advocate here in Malta, recently attended the Climate Care Camp in Denmark and has come away with a wealth of insights and inspiration.
Environmental NGOs give feedback on long-awaited National Energy and Climate Plan for Malta
This week, in response to a public consultation (NL-0020-2024) from the the Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour, Friends of the Earth Malta (FOEM) submitted their input regarding Guidelines for Catering Establishments on Food Containers and Beverage Cups.
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This webpage reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
This project is co-financed by the Ministry for Education and Employment (MEDE) and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sport and Voluntary Organisations.