The ratification of two climate records, the Paris agreement and the reform of the emission quotas exchange system were on the agenda of the Council of Environment Ministers held on Monday 20 June 2016 in Luxembourg.
The ministers adopted a joint declaration on the rapid adoption of the Paris Agreement in line with the proposal for ratification of the Paris Agreement presented by EU Commissioner, Miguel Arias Cañete, last week.
The Council also held a policy debate on the structural reform proposition on the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS) and the new Air Quality Directive (NEC).
The ministers further adopted conclusions on the action plan for the fight against wildlife trafficking, presented by the Commission in February to stem the trafficking of wild species of fauna and flora.
At the request of France, Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis presented to ministers the two legislative proposals of the European Commission on the scientific criteria for determining endocrine disruptors to regulate them according to European standards for biocides and plant protection products.
The Dutch Presidency reported to Environment Ministers the outcome of the debate at the "Transport" Council regarding the Volkswagen scandal, often referred to as "Diesel Gate".
Photo by EU (L-R): Karmenu VELLA, Member of the European Commission; Sharon DIJKSMA, Dutch State Secretary for Infrastructure and the Environment.
