Prescription for the EU policy cycle 2025-2027: advancing on healthy people on a healthy planet

ongoing

The new EU policy cycle 2024-2029 has seen a shift of political priorities towards strengthening competitiveness and simplifying EU law. In a time of multiple crises, including the triple crises of climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, HEAL’s priority is to bring forward new science, and engage the health sector to make the case on the urgency of continued development and implementation of EU environmental, climate legislation. As the leading European non-profit organisation working for better health through a healthy environment, with 75+ member organisations, HEAL is uniquely placed to canvass health sector expertise. We also act as a multiplier to issue a Prescription on how to uphold momentum for healthy people on a healthy planet. The project uses a threefold strategy: science-policy translation; tailored communication (materials); capacity building of health organisations to act as multipliers. In 2025-2026, as a novel element, we will kick-off health involvement in EU public investment deliberations (MFF), to support the further implementation of the EU Green Deal (EGD). Anticipated results include timely and health-protective implementation of EU clean air (AAQD), chemicals (CLP, REACH), pesticides (authorization and reduction), EU climate laws. At the same time, our two-way channelling in EU policy dialogues will contribute to advance on policy frameworks beyond 2030, with REACH reform, PFAS deliberations, Vision for Agriculture and Food, NECD review, EU 2040 Climate Goal, adaptation strategy. Activities will in the short, long-term contribute to better human health, reduced rates of lung disease, cancer, etc. by reducing environment, climate-related risks of ill-health, particularly for vulnerable groups, and those facing socio-economic inequalities. Impacts include continued EGD, 8th EAP implementation; better evidence-base for EU policies, stronger two-way channelling, multiplier effect; higher civil society involvement in EU policy dialogues.