La exposición a partículas ultrafinas está relacionada con el desarrollo de afecciones graves y a largo plazo, con problemas respiratorios, cardiovasculares y problemas en el embarazo. La entrada Las partículas ultrafinas de los aviones pueden provocar enfermedades graves a ocho millones de personas que viven cerca de los aeropuertos españoles aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
Nuestros esfuerzos para reciclar la basura no deben acabar en el vertedero. La entrada Urge solucionar la mala situación y la poca eficacia del Centro de Tratamiento de Residuos de Valladolid que envía al vertedero el 83% de los residuos recibidos aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
Our conference, to be held this autumn at Cyrill and Method University (a member of UNICA), will highlight the opportunities to strengthen the European Research Area and explore how entities, researchers, and innovators can benefit most from the EU's research framework based on excellence and respect for differences. We will discuss the maintenance, construction, and integration of Research Infrastructures (RI) into the broader EU RI fleet, aiming to create a unified and cohesive European research environment. Our discussions will highlight the symbiotic relationship between national and European stakeholders, advocating for a shift from mere funding exchange to a model that emphasizes mutual access and strategic partnerships between local and European research infrastructures. Panel discussions will also explore national differences in research and innovation policy and practice across Southeast Europe, highlighting successful strategies and identifying areas for improvement. Another major focus will be how the EU and SEE countries can work together to address the 'brain drain' by discussing strategies to make the region more attractive to researchers. These strategies include improving research and innovation facilities, funding opportunities, and collaboration prospects, thereby enhancing multilateral opportunities and improving innovations. This conference is a forum for discussing policies and best practices and an excellent opportunity for sponsors to engage with key decision-makers from the EU and Southeastern Europe research and innovation communities. It is a unique platform to influence the future of European cooperation in these fields and support the EU's strategic goals of enlargement and integration.
Our conference, to be held this autumn at Cyrill and Method University (a member of UNICA), will highlight the opportunities to strengthen the European Research Area and explore how entities, researchers, and innovators can benefit most from the EU's research framework based on excellence and respect for differences. We will discuss the maintenance, construction, and integration of Research Infrastructures (RI) into the broader EU RI fleet, aiming to create a unified and cohesive European research environment. Our discussions will highlight the symbiotic relationship between national and European stakeholders, advocating for a shift from mere funding exchange to a model that emphasizes mutual access and strategic partnerships between local and European research infrastructures. Panel discussions will also explore national differences in research and innovation policy and practice across the Balkan region, highlighting successful strategies and identifying areas for improvement. Another major focus will be how the EU and the Balkan countries can work together to address the 'brain drain' by discussing strategies to make the region more attractive to researchers. These strategies include improving research and innovation facilities, funding opportunities, and collaboration prospects, thereby enhancing multilateral opportunities and improving innovations. This conference is a forum for discussing policies and best practices and an excellent opportunity for sponsors to engage with key decision-makers from the EU and Balkan research and innovation communities. It is a unique platform to influence the future of European cooperation in these fields and support the EU's strategic goals of enlargement and integration.
El 11 de junio, el CESE celebró su reunión extraordinaria de la Mesa en Budapest, antes del inicio de la Presidencia húngara de la UE el próximo mes....
Brussels, Belgium – Today, the Council formally adopted the Net Zero Industry Act aiming to increase the EU’s manufacturing capacity of technologies that support industrial decarbonisation in Europe. The Regulation identifies and supports strategic net-zero technologies, including Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), to strengthen industrial competitiveness and energy systems resilience while facilitating the green transition. With the […] The post Press Release – The Net Zero Industry Act adopted: oil and gas industry now accountable for delivering pan-European permanent storage for industrial CO2 emissions appeared first on Bellona.org.
By Carola Cantaluppi, Public and European Affairs & Partnerships at InnovUp The European Union (EU) is facing an ongoing digital transformation which requires workers to constantly acquire and develop new digital skills. Digital technologies and digital skills are indeed complementary: they reciprocally strengthen each other in pivoting innovation and economic growth. The EU is currently ... The post Invest in programs to ensure European workers have the skills they need to compete in the global economy, and entrepreneurs have access to the talent they need to hire. appeared first on alliedforstartups.org.
El Ayuntamiento de Valladolid pretende realizar una ampliación del Puente de Poniente para incrementar el número de carriles destinados a vehículos. Una obra compleja y costosa que supondrá graves problemas de movilidad y que va en contra de los objetivos de la Zona de Bajas Emisiones La entrada Colectivos ecologistas y ciudadanos realizarán el domingo 2 de junio una sentada en el Puente de Poniente para rechazar el proyecto de ampliación con un coste superior a los 5 millones de euros aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
The different sea regions are presented in the Y axis. The X axis corresponds to the number of time series with statistically significant decreasing trends (green), increasing trends (orange) and no trends (grey). Statistical significance at p
Ukraine's energy crisis deepened after Russian strikes on power infrastructure, leading to emergency outages and a growing electricity deficit. The situation has been further complicated by Russia's renewed offensive in the Kharkiv Oblast, where delays in Western aid, restrictions on striking Russian targets, and issues in Ukrainian command have been cited as factors contributing to the initial advance.
Announcement! As part of the consortium partner, SPI invite all of you to join us for the inaugural "PrevenTalk" webinar on May 24th, 2024, as we launch on a pioneering exploration into Rare Tumour Risk Syndromes (RTRS) and the pivotal role of cancer prevention.
Белград, Скопје – 23 април 2024 година Во Градскиот парк Скопје и на Белградската тврдина Калемегдан, Мрежата за климатска акција на Европа (CAN Europe) започна јавна кампања која се залага […] The post Кога обновливите извори на енергија ќе ја сретнат уметноста: Како креативноста може да ја подигне свеста за енергетската ефикасност кај граѓаните appeared first on CAN Europe.
Amigas da Terra, Ecoloxistas en Acción, Greenpeace, o Sindicato Labrego Galego e a Plataforma Ulloa Viva remitiron unha carta ao ministro Ernest Urtasun, alertando das graves afectacións que tería a celulosa de Altri-Greenfiber no Camiño Francés, no Camiño Primitivo e na Ruta Eurovelo 3. La entrada Instan ao ministro de cultura, Ernest Urtasun, a protexer o “Camiño francés” da grave afección que carrexaría a macrocelulosa de Altri en Palas de Rei aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
On 21 and 22 March, European civil society organisations gathered in Brussels for the European Citizens' Summit, with a dual aim: to discuss their proposals and strategies, and to speak with one voice for an open, fair and sustainable Europe. The result was the Brussels Declaration, adopted at the end of the Summit by over a hundred organisations. Unfortunately, the provisional priorities of the Council outlined in the draft strategic agenda for 2024-29 stand in stark contrast to the civil society’s vision in the Brussels Declaration. The post Nicolas Van Nuffel: Civil society’s Brussels Declaration asserts a vision of a fair and sustainable Europe – in contrast to the Council’s draft Strategic Agenda appeared first on CONCORD.
CENER has won two contracts. One (coordinated by CENER) on the development of standardization methods for the eco-design and energy labelling of photovoltaic products and the second project will develop a recyclability index for photovoltaic products. Both contracts are funded… The post CENER HAS BEEN CONTRACTED BY THE EUROPEAN CLIMATE, INFRAESTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT EXECUTIVE AGENCY (CINEA) TO WORK IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEASURES AIMED AT THE ECODESIGN AND RECYCLING OF PHOTOVOLTAIC PRODUCTS appeared first on CENER - National Renewable Energy Centre.
The figure shows the share of animals (expressed in livestock units, or LU) for which EU Member States have planned interventions supported under the common agricultural policy (CAP) and related to the prevention or reduction of antimicrobial use over the implementing period 2023-2027. The types of intervention that may be concerned include (a) sectoral types of intervention; (b) investments; (c) environmental, climate-related and other management commitments; and (d) schemes for the climate, the environment and animal health.
Ukraine has only 50% of money needed to fully contract the growing domestic capacities for weapons production. Long-range drone strikes against Russia target railways.
Fig. 1. Meeting centre DePetrus, Vught. View towards the entrance, 2019. Author: Maria Arno Historical sacred objects constitute an important part of collective memory and provide a sign of spiritual continuity in a given society. Due to the lack of believers and too high maintenance costs, churches in many European cities are purchased by private […] The post Adaptation of historical sacred objects to secular functions on the example of selected Western European projects with the use of the narrative method appeared first on Future for Religious Heritage.
El 20 de abril la sociedad canaria exigió de forma mayoritaria un cambio de modelo económico y social que mejore la vida de la gente y respete el territorio, que ponga la vida en el centro. La entrada Los colectivos del 20A de Canarias inician un proceso de recogida de propuestas para el cambio de modelo e instan al Gobierno a crear una mesa de negociación aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg invites President Zelenskyy to the upcoming summit, despite lingering questions about Ukraine's membership prospects. In a separate development, Poland has ended its border blockade with Ukraine, signaling a step towards easing bilateral tensions that have arisen during the war.
Desde la Federación Ben Magec Ecologistas en Acción, que agrupa a colectivos de todas las islas, manifestamos nuestra enorme preocupación por la situación de las compañeras de la Plataforma Canarias se Agota que llevan ya 14 días en huelga de hambre, con alto riesgo para sus vidas, reivindicando otro modelo de turismo para Canarias. La entrada Ben Magec Ecologistas en Acción muestra su apoyo y preocupación por los compañeros de ‘Canarias se Agota’ en huelga de hambre hace catorce días aparece primero en Ecologistas en Acción.
On April 10, a delegation of European Entrepreneurs joined our French Member M-ETI on a day of meetings with the highest institutions of France. The post European Entrepreneurs & European Family Business discuss with French Senate and National Assembly the needs and challenges for the European Mittelstand appeared first on European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME.
La directora de '20.000 especies de abejas', ganadora de 3 premios Goya y nominada al Premio del Público LUX del Parlamento Europeo, ha destacado en numerosas ocasiones que su película es, en cierto modo, un homenaje a Ekai, un joven trans que, antes de quitarse la vida, pidió que su caso sirviese para dar visbilidad. La película, no solo da voz a la realidad de las infancias trans, sino que también aborda el papel y las limitaciones de las etiquetas. En esta entrevista, la directora explora el poder del cine para "comprender el dolor humano desde un lugar más íntimo, que otro tipo de acercamientos no nos permiten".
La directora de '20.000 especies de abejas', ganadora de 3 premios Goya y nominada al Premio del Público LUX del Parlamento Europeo, ha destacado en numerosas ocasiones que su película es, en cierto modo, un homenaje a Ekai, un joven trans que, antes de quitarse la vida, pidió que su caso sirviese para dar visbilidad. La película, no solo da voz a la realidad de las infancias trans, sino que también aborda el papel y las limitaciones de las etiquetas. En esta entrevista, la directora explora el poder del cine para "comprender el dolor humano desde un lugar más íntimo, que otro tipo de acercamientos no nos permiten".
In a world where financial data abounds, leveraging this information can propel a business to new heights. Anastasija Tenca, Chief Operations Officer at Noda, sheds light on the transformative power of open banking in harnessing this data for business growth. As the financial landscape evolves, Noda's innovative solutions are leading the charge in turning data […]
The Academy is a full and active member of the ESDC and is the course director of one of the most important cyber courses on the ESDC’s ETEE platform, ‘The The post On 13 March 2024, the European Security and Defence College (ESDC) hosted a delegation from the Italian Interagency Law Enforcement Academy of Advanced Studies (Department of Public Security) at the ESDC’s headquarter in Brussels. appeared first on ESDC- European Security & Defence College.
Hoy, dos metodologías han sido aprobadas por la Comisión, una destinada a medir la cantidad de microplásticos en el agua y, otra que garantiza la reutilización de las aguas residuales utilizadas en el riego agrícola. También tienen el objetivo de reforzar la calidad y resistencia del agua en toda la UE.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of monensin sodium (Coxidin®) as a coccidiostat for chickens for fattening, chickens reared for laying, turkeys for fattening and turkeys reared for breeding. The additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that Coxidin® remains safe for turkeys for fattening (up to 16 weeks) and extends this conclusion to turkeys reared for breeding (up to 16 weeks). The Panel was not in the position to confirm that the current maximum authorised level of 125 mg monensin sodium/kg complete feed remains safe for chickens for fattening and chickens reared for laying. The use of monensin sodium from Coxidin® at the corresponding maximum authorised/proposed use levels in the target species is safe for the consumer. The existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for poultry tissues ensure consumer safety. No withdrawal time is necessary. Both formulations of Coxidin® pose a risk by inhalation. The formulation with wheat bran as a carrier was neither irritant to the skin nor a skin sensitiser but it was irritant to the eyes. In the absence of data, no conclusions could be made on the potential of the formulation containing calcium carbonate to be irritant to skin and eyes and to be a skin sensitiser. The use of monensin sodium from Coxidin® in complete feed for the target species poses no risk for the terrestrial compartments and for sediment. No risk for groundwater is expected. For chickens for fattening the risk for aquatic compartment cannot be excluded, but no risks are expected for the other animal categories. There is no risk of secondary poisoning. Coxidin® is efficacious in controlling coccidiosis at a level of 100 mg/kg complete feed for chickens for fattening and at 60 mg/kg complete feed for turkeys for fattening. These conclusions are extended to chickens reared for laying and turkeys reared for breeding. The Panel noted that there are signs of development of resistance of Eimeria spp. to monensin sodium.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Enterococcus lactis DSM 22502 as a technological feed additive for all animal species. The applicant provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions regarding the safety and efficacy of the additive. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that E. lactis remains safe for all animal species, consumers and environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding the user safety, the Panel concluded that the additive is not irritating to the skin or eyes. No conclusions can be drawn on the potential of the additive to cause skin sensitisation, but it is considered to be a respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.
EIB Global, part of the European Investment Bank, and the Housing Finance Bank (HFB) of Uganda have announced a partnership to avail €50 million investment to support private sector entities, notably SMEs in Uganda.
564128 Željka Šulc From 3 to 6 March 2024, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) organized a study visit for representatives of the BiH Central Election Commission to the Central Election Commission of Albania. This visit provides insights into the application of election technologies and electoral processes. Albania has successfully integrated new election technologies into its systems for number of years. Ilirjan Celibashi, State Election Commissioner of the Republic of Albania, emphasized the importance of increased communication and exchange of good practices. "The study visit of our Bosnian and Herzegovinian colleagues presents an opportunity to foster regional communication and connect the Election Commission of Albania with other Election Commissions in the region. Regional cooperation is vital to address common challenges and ensure mutual support. Therefore, establishing a regular platform for the exchange of information and experiences can foster a robust and professional network." Irena Hadžiabdić, President of the BiH Central Election Commission, said: "Amidst discussions on electoral reform and the upcoming pilot project for the use of electoral technologies in the next elections, the experiences of other countries, particularly the lessons learned from Albania, are invaluable. We extend our sincere gratitude to the OSCE Mission to BiH and the Election Commission of Albania for organizing this study visit." The study visits to the Central Electoral Commission of Albania featured presentations on the experiences of electoral implementation bodies and other institutions involved in the political/legislative processes preceding the pilot project implementation. Topics included procurement modalities, staff training, data transfer, cyber security, and other issues pertaining to the introduction of election technologies “As we navigate the complexities of electoral processes, it's imperative that we remain open to learning from the experiences of others. By drawing insights from diverse perspectives, we can fortify our efforts towards meaningful election reform,” said Ahmed Rifatbegović, National Political Officer at the OSCE Mission to BiH. “Embracing reform not only strengthens the integrity of our democratic institutions but also reinforces public trust in the electoral system.” Participants also had the opportunity to share experiences with representatives from the Central Election Commission, the Agency for the Protection of Personal Data and the Agency for Identification Documents, Records and Data Exchange. This study visit is part of the OSCE Mission to BiH's broader project, "Improving the Integrity of Electoral Processes in 2024 and 2026 in accordance with the recommendations of the ODIHR and international standards." This project is implemented with the support of the Governments of the Kingdom of Norway, United Kingdom, USA, and Germany.
Call for tender - EEA/DIS/R0/23/007 - Copernicus Land Monitoring Service - Pan European Component - Production and Validation of High Resolution Vegetation Phenology and Production admin Wed, 06/03/2024 - 12:53 Procedure identifier EEA/2023/OP/0054 Submission method Electronic - Open for submission Description The subject of this call for tenders is the establishment of two framework service contracts with different economic operators covering the production (lot 1) and validation (lot 2) of the pan-European - Bio-geophysical Parameters – High Resolution Vegetation Phenology and Productivity (HR-VPP). Procedure type open Estimated total value 5125000 EUR TED publication date 30/01/2024 Lead contracting authority European Environment Agency (EEA) Main classification (CPV) 72300000 - Data services Submission terms Submissions must be sent exclusively at the address for submission given below. Submission method Electronic Address for submission Access submission Wed, 06/03/2024 - 12:00
3Rs Working Party (3RsWP) plenary meeting – Public session on the 2024 work plan, Online, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Broadcast, from 20 March 2024, 09:00 (CET) to 20 March 2024, 10:00 (CET)
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/747 of 23 February 2024 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/746 of 23 February 2024 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/577 of 12 February 2024 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/740 of 22 February 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/891 concerning restrictive measures in view of actions destabilising the Republic of Moldova.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/633 of 19 February 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2022/266 concerning restrictive measures in response to the illegal recognition, occupation or annexation by the Russian Federation of certain non-government controlled areas of Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/628 of 19 February 2024 amending Common Position 2001/931/CFSP on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism.
Eight Nitrosamine Implementation Oversight Group (NIOG) meeting and Fifth Nitrosamine Implementation Oversight Group (NIOG) – meeting with pharmaceutical industry, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 7 September 2022
Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on Bacillus velezensis ATCC PTA‐6737 as a zootechnical additive (functional group: gut‐flora stabiliser) in the context of the renewal of the authorisation for turkeys for fattening and turkeys reared for breeding. The applicant is also requesting to modify the target species in the current authorisations to ‘all growing poultry’, the increase of the recommended use level in chickens for fattening, chickens reared for laying and minor poultry species except minor poultry for laying from 1 × 107 to 1 × 108 CFU/kg complete feed and the compatibility of the additive with halofuginone. The applicant provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the conditions of the authorisation. There was no new evidence that would lead to reconsider previous conclusions. Therefore, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all poultry species for fattening and reared for laying/breeding, the consumers and the environment under the current authorised conditions of use. The additive is not irritant to the skin and eyes, but it should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The Panel could not conclude on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. The Panel concluded that the additive has a potential to be efficacious as a zootechnical additive for poultry for fattening and reared for laying/breeding under the proposed conditions of use.
Training webinar on the use of Scientific Explorer in scientific advice regulatory procedures, Online, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, from 3 April 2024, 11:30 (CEST) to 12 April 2024, 14:00 (CEST)
563668 Officers of the Border Guard Service of the State Committee for National Security (SCNS) of the Kyrgyz Republic Chyngyz Zhanybekov Aida Almazbekova From February 26 to March 1, 2024, a training course on the 'Combatting Illicit Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), Conventional Ammunition (CA), and Explosives at the border' took place in Osh, Kyrgyz Republic, aiming to address the adverse impact of illicit trafficking on safety and security in the OSCE region. The uncontrolled spread of SALW, CA, and explosives, particularly to terrorists and criminal groups, has significantly impacted the safety of populations and the security of OSCE Participating States, increasing the intensity and duration of recent armed conflicts. The training provided Kyrgyz border guard officers with an in-depth understanding of their roles in combating illicit trafficking of SALW, ammunition, and explosives, the identification of sources and proliferation of illicit SALW, and enhanced expertise in risk management. Participants gained insights into international legal frameworks, national regulations, and effective post-seizure procedures. "This training is part of the OSCE regional approach for Central Asia in strengthening the capacities of the Border and Customs Services in detecting SALW, ammunition, and explosives at border crossing points based on international best practices," noted Nora Vanaga, Associate Project Officer at the Conflict Prevention Centre in the OSCE Secretariat. "The illicit trafficking of SALW and their proliferation across national borders affect the safety of the entire population. Border guard officers play a key role in intercepting this phenomenon as they are the first to screen persons and goods entering a country. This course was designed to build the capacity of the Border Service in combating the illicit trafficking of SALW, ammunition, and explosives, with particular attention to promoting international standards in Kyrgyzstan," shared Ewa Klimuk, Project Manager at the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. This course was organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project project by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) and the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre Supporting Unit, in collaboration with experts from INTERPOL, UNODC, and the German Verification Centre. The course was conducted as part of the ExB project of the POiB entitled 'Reducing the risk of the illicit proliferation of SALW, CA, and explosives across the border of Kyrgyz Republic,' funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and the United States of America. By collaborating with international partners, the OSCE is committed to supporting the Kyrgyz Republic’s efforts in addressing transnational threats and ensuring safety and security in the broader OSCE area.
Dans le cadre du séminaire Russie Interfaces, Fabrice Balanche, maître de conférences en géographie à l'Université Lyon 2 et chercheur associé au think-tank Washington Institute, viendra présenter son dernier livre « Les leçons de la crise syrienne - L’affrontement entre l’Occident, l’Iran, la Russie et la Chine », Odile Jacob, Paris, 2024.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of the authorisation of Cylactin® as a zootechnical feed additive for cats and dogs. The active agent of the additive is Enterococcus lactis NCIMB 10415 and the micro‐encapsulated formulation, Cylactin® LBC ME5 PET, was assessed. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for cats and dogs. Regarding user safety, the additive was not shown to be skin and eye irritant, but it should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions can be drawn on the skin sensitisation. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.
The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP) assessed the safety of the recycling process CeltiPak (EU register number RECYC318), which uses the Kreyenborg IR Clean+ technology. The input material is hot caustic washed and dried poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) flakes originating from collected post‐consumer PET containers, for example, bottles, with no more than 5% PET from non‐food consumer applications. The flakes are heated in a continuous IR dryer (step 2) before being processed in a finisher reactor (step 3). Having examined the challenge test provided, the Panel concluded that step 2 and step 3 are critical in determining the decontamination efficiency of the process. The operating parameters to control the performance of these critical steps are temperature, air/PET ratio and residence time. It was demonstrated that this recycling process is able to ensure that the level of migration of potential unknown contaminants into food is below the conservatively modelled migration of 0.10 and 0.15 μg/kg food, derived from the exposure scenario for infants and toddlers, respectively, when such recycled PET is used at up to 100%. Therefore, the Panel concluded that the recycled PET obtained from this process is not considered to be of safety concern, when used at up to 100% for the manufacture of materials and articles for contact with all types of foodstuffs, including drinking water, for long‐term storage at room temperature or below, with or without hotfill. Articles made of this recycled PET are not intended to be used in microwave and conventional ovens and such uses are not covered by this evaluation.
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety of microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose as technological feed additives for all animal species. In its previous opinions on the safety and efficacy of the products, the FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on proper identification and characterisation as required for a feed additive. The occurrence of potential toxic impurities could also not be assessed. Based on the new data provided, the feed additives microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose were properly identified and characterised and were shown to meet the specifications set for their use as food additives. Therefore, the conclusions of the safety reached in the previous opinions for microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose meeting the food additive specifications apply to the microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose under assessment as feed additives. The additives are considered safe for all animal species, the consumer and the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel is not in the position to conclude on the safety for the user.
Quarterly System Demo Q1 2024, Online, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Broadcast, from 26 March 2024, 09:00 (CET) to 26 March 2024, 13:30 (CET)
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and methyl cellulose as technological feed additives for all animal species. In its previous opinions on the safety and efficacy of the products, the FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on proper identification and characterisation as required for a feed additive. The occurrence of potential toxic impurities could also not be assessed. Based on the new data provided, the feed additives hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and methyl cellulose were properly identified and characterised and were shown to meet the specifications set for the food additives. Therefore, the conclusions of the safety assessments reached in the previous opinions for hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and methyl cellulose meeting the food additive specifications, apply to the hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and methyl cellulose under assessment as feed additives. The additives are considered safe for all animal species, the consumer and the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel is not in the position to conclude on the safety for the user.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/421 of 29 January 2024 amending Decision 2011/72/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Tunisia.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/422 of 29 January 2024 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
Authors: Elisa Uhlig, Anna Sadzik and Mara Strenger, Sustainable Packaging Institute SPI, Albstadt-Sigmaringen University In December 2023, the EU-funded projet BioSupPack organised a workshop alongside the European Bioplastics Conference - EBC23 on the topics: “The next challenge in packaging: How to choose between different bio-based polymers? How can Life Cycle Assessments be used to [...]
The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP) assessed the safety of the recycling process ENPLATER (EU register number RECYC316), which uses the Kreyenborg IR Clean+ technology. The input material is hot caustic washed and dried poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) flakes originating from collected post‐consumer PET containers, e.g. bottles, with no more than 5% PET from non‐food consumer applications. The flakes are heated in a continuous IR dryer (step 2) before being processed in a finisher reactor (step 3). Having examined the challenge test provided, the Panel concluded that step 2 and step 3 are critical in determining the decontamination efficiency of the process. The operating parameters to control the performance of these critical steps are temperature, air/PET ratio and residence time. It was demonstrated that this recycling process is able to ensure that the level of migration of potential unknown contaminants into food is below the conservatively modelled migration of 0.10 and 0.15 μg/kg food, derived from the exposure scenario for infants and toddlers, respectively, when such recycled PET is used at up to 100%. Therefore, the Panel concluded that the recycled PET obtained from this process is not considered to be of safety concern, when used at up to 100% for the manufacture of materials and articles for contact with all types of foodstuffs, including drinking water, for long‐term storage at room temperature or below, with or without hotfill. Articles made of this recycled PET are not intended to be used in microwave and conventional ovens and such uses are not covered by this evaluation.
The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP) assessed the safety of the recycling process GTX Hanex (EU register number RECYC317), which uses the Kreyenborg IR Clean+ technology. The input material is hot caustic washed and dried poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) flakes originating from collected post‐consumer PET containers, e.g. bottles, with no more than 5% PET from non‐food consumer applications. The flakes are heated in a continuous IR dryer (step 2) before being processed in a finisher reactor (step 3). Having examined the challenge test provided, the Panel concluded that step 2 and step 3 are critical in determining the decontamination efficiency of the process. The operating parameters to control the performance of these critical steps are temperature, air/PET ratio and residence time. It was demonstrated that this recycling process is able to ensure that the level of migration of potential unknown contaminants into food is below the conservatively modelled migration of 0.10 and 0.15 μg/kg food, derived from the exposure scenario for infants and toddlers, respectively, when such recycled PET is used at up to 100%. Therefore, the Panel concluded that the recycled PET obtained from this process is not considered to be of safety concern, when used at up to 100% for the manufacture of materials and articles for contact with all types of foodstuffs, including drinking water, for long‐term storage at room temperature or below, with or without hotfill. Articles made of this recycled PET are not intended to be used in microwave and conventional ovens and such uses are not covered by this evaluation.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/457 of 2 February 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2024/254 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Guatemala.
The European Parliament’s vote on Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) represents an important first move to ensure European industry remains competitive and innovative. EuropaBio welcomes the inclusion of biotech according to the OECD definition as a strategic technology for Europe. The post Biotech recognised in regulation for Europe’s future: EuropaBio welcomes European Parliament’s vote on Strategic Technologies forEurope Platform Regulation first appeared on Europabio.
The applicant Arysta Life Science Great Britain Limited submitted a request to the competent national authority in Croatia to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for quizalofop‐P‐tefuryl in the framework of the maximum residue level (MRL) review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. Since Article 12 data gaps were also set for the two other quizalofop‐P variants sharing the same residue definitions for risk assessment and monitoring, EFSA included in the present assessment all quizalofop‐P variants: quizalofop‐P‐ethyl, quizalofop‐P‐tefuryl and propaquizafop. Moreover, in the application submitted to Croatia, the applicant also included a request to modify the existing MRLs for quizalofop‐P‐tefuryl in grapes, sunflower seeds and soyabeans in accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. To address the data gaps, new data on hydrolysis efficiency of quizalofop‐P‐tefuryl, quizalofop acid, quizalofop‐pentanoic acid and quizalofop‐P‐glycerate in different matrices of animal origin in accordance with the guidance document SANTE/2020/12830 Rev.1 were submitted, along with a validated analytical method for animal commodities. EFSA concluded that the data gap on validation of the efficiency of the extraction and hydrolysis included in the enforcement method of residues in livestock animal commodities was only fully addressed for muscle, poultry liver and eggs. Regarding plant commodities, the remaining data gaps were not addressed. EFSA also considered data gaps for quizalofop‐p‐ethyl in caraway as sufficiently addressed in the context of a previous MRL application. In general, the new information provided required a revision of the existing MRLs for several commodities of plant and animal origin. Further risk management considerations are required. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of quizalofop‐P‐tefuryl according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of the authorisation of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 23689 as a technological additive, silage additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers, and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive should be considered as a respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions can be drawn on the skin sensitisation, and skin and eye irritancy potential of the additive. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 23688, a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers, and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive was shown not to be irritant to skin or eyes. The Panel was not in the position to conclude on skin sensitisation potential of the additive, but it is considered to be a respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.