Publications

Publication:Document
 
The image shows the cover of a discussion paper titled 'Climate Targets for EU Member States after 2030: Functions and Options.' The paper is authored by Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf (Ecologic Institute), Sabine Gores (Oeko-Institut), and Jakob Graichen (Oeko-Institut). The publication is from 10 April 2025 and includes the logos of Ecologic Institute and Oeko-Institut.
A new paper by the Ecologic Institute and Oeko-Institut discusses how to design climate target for Member States. The paper explores seven options how to best design national climate targets for the time after 2030. This paper is available for download.

Climate Targets for EU Member States after 2030

Functions and Options

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Publication:Book
 
Book cover of "Sustainable Urban Development in the European Arctic" from the "Routledge Studies in Sustainable Development" series. Authors include Dorothea Wehrmann, Michał Łuszczuk, Katarzyna Radzik-Maruszak, Jacqueline Götze, and Arne Riedel. The cover features technical drawings in white on a dark green background, along with the Open Access symbol and the Routledge logo.
Focusing on cities in the European Arctic, this book consolidates research on sustainable development, local and urban governance, and transnational cooperation in the region. It examines to what extent there is transnational cooperation between urban areas in remote locations and how it can be enhanced to better align with global sustainable development policies to successfully implement goals set for example by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Sustainable Urban Development in the European Arctic

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Publication:Report
 
The cover page of a report titled From ideas to action: INTERLACE impulses for successfully implementing NbS in cities. The header features the INTERLACE logo and tagline, "Restoring Urban Ecosystems / Recuperando Ecosistemas Urbanos." The INTERLACE city impulse papers, authored by Gutiérrez Miranda, Marcela, et al. The design includes a vibrant, multicolored abstract swirl, framing an image of a person riding a bicycle through a tree-lined, sunny urban park.
The report ‘From Ideas to Action’ presents the strategy papers of the seven INTERLACE partner cities, which were developed in close cooperation with local stakeholders in Europe and Latin America. These papers highlight tailor-made strategies for nature-based solutions (NbS), including the revitalisation of urban parks in Chemnitz and the development of a search engine for green infrastructure projects in Kraków. The aim is to effectively address the unique challenges of each city, such as climate change, biodiversity loss and social inequality.

From Ideas to Action

INTERLACE impulses for successfully implementing NbS in cities

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Publication:Document
 
The analysis by Ariadne project partners examines Germany's climate foreign policy during the current legislative period. Beyond the international context, they also consider the organizational structure within the German government and the responsible ministries. The researchers conclude that Germany has been able to set the pace for international climate policy by transferring the responsibility for international climate policy to the Foreign Office and creating the role of Special Envoy for International Climate Policy. In contrast, the record of Germany's engagement in bilateral and plurilateral formats has yielded mixed results.

Deutschlands Klimaaußenpolitik: Kontext – Rückschau – Weiterentwicklung

Ariadne-Analyse

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the interim report titled 'The EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework: Options for using certified removal units and funding mitigation activities.' The report is part of the 'Climate Change 44/2024' series and is published by the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt).
With the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF), adopted in 2024, the EU established a voluntary framework for carbon removal certification, which includes criteria for the certification of removals, rules for the certification process and the recognition of certification schemes. A new report by the Ecologic Institute and the Oeko-Institut for Germany’s Federal Environment Agency (UBA) discusses options for how certified removal units may be used. The report also explores what policy options are available to complement funding for removals besides revenues generated through the CRCF.

The EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework

Options for using certified removal units and funding mitigation activities

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the GOVAQUA policy brief titled 'Building water resilience: towards better implementation of ecological flows and water allocation in Europe,' dated 7 October 2024. The top half of the cover shows a cracked, dried soil surface with a green plant growing from it, symbolizing water scarcity and resilience. The lower half of the cover presents the policy brief text with key messages and is co-branded with logos of the European Union, UK Research and Innovation, and GOVAQUA.
As Europe faces increasing droughts and water shortages, it is crucial to rethink how we manage water resources. A new policy brief explores strategies to improve ecological flows and water allocation, offering vital insights for policymakers and stakeholders. Discover how these measures can safeguard ecosystems and support sustainable water use in the face of climate change.

Building Water Resilience

Towards better implementation of ecological flows and water allocation in Europe

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Publication:Article
 
Double-page article entitled ‘Nature-based solutions to urban challenges’ from a publication. The article describes the INTERLACE project. In addition to text, the page contains images, including a green park landscape, a woman on a bicycle in an urban environment and people working on a riverbank. Logos of INTERLACE, Ecologic Institute and partner organisations as well as a QR code are also shown.
The INTERLACE project, funded by Horizon 2020, exemplifies innovative transdisciplinary approaches to tackling urban challenges through nature-based solutions (NBS). By fostering stakeholder engagement, developing practical tools, and supporting ecosystem restoration, the project empowers cities across Europe and Latin America to implement sustainable NBS. McKenna Davis and Benedict Buebfrom Ecologic Institute provided key insights into the project's progress and outcomes.

Nature-based Solutions to Urban Challenges

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Publication:Report
 
The cover page of a report titled Integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Policy and Planning: Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities. The design features the INTERLACE logo and tagline, "Restoring Urban Ecosystems / Recuperando Ecosistemas Urbanos," on a white background. The right side displays a vibrant urban scene, showing a cityscape with a mix of modern buildings, including a tall, white skyscraper and a unique architectural structure, surrounded by dense greenery under a blue sky.
Der Bericht "Integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Policy and Planning. Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities" (dt.: Erkenntnisse und Lektionen aus den INTERLACE-Städten), fasst die Erfahrungen der sieben Partnerstädte in Europa und Lateinamerika zusammen. Er richtet sich an politische Entscheidungsträger:innen und Stadtplaner:innen, die naturbasierte Lösungen (NbS) systematisch in ihre städtischen Planungs- und Governance-Strukturen einbinden möchten. Dabei betont die Publikation die Bedeutung inklusiver Beteiligungsprozesse sowie den Einsatz moderner Daten- und Finanzierungsinstrumente, um NbS auf eine breitere Ebene zu skalieren.

Integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Policy and Planning

Findings and Lessons from INTERLACE Cities

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Publication:Web Application
 
Screenshot from an online course platform for a course titled 'Nature-based Solutions: How to regenerate nature to make neighborhoods more livable, biodiverse, and resilient to climate change.' The image shows an aerial view of a neighborhood with the course title overlaid. On the right, it states 'All lessons have been completed,' and a progress bar shows 100% completion. Below, a section for reviewing an introduction module is visible along with the Interlace project logo.
Urban areas across the globe are facing unprecedented challenges – pollution, climate change, urban sprawl – and traditional solutions are falling short. Join the Interlace project's free online course to discover how nature-based solutions offer a promising approach to help create resilient, sustainable cities.

Nature-based Solutions: How to regenerate nature to make neighborhoods more livable, biodiverse, and resilient to climate change

MOOC

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the GOVAQUA Policy Matrix Part C – Regulating value chains and sustainable water footprints, featuring an aerial view of a lush green forest surrounding a body of water, with logos of the EU, UK Research and Innovation, and GOVAQUA at the bottom.
The present report, led by EU research project partner SYKE, focuses on the challenges and opportunities that relate to designing and implementing sustainable water governance in value chains in six Eur. It contributes to the ongoing policy discussions on the role of sustainable water management in the context of corporations’ value chains.

Regulating Value Chains and Sustainable Water Footprints

GOVAQUA policy matrix Part C

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the GOVAQUA Policy Matrix Part B – Review of national eflows policies in six European countries, featuring an aerial view of lush green forest bordering a calm body of water, with logos of the EU, UK Research and Innovation, and GOVAQUA at the bottom.
The present report describes and analyzes the legal and regulatory frameworks for ecological and environmental flows (eflows) in six European countries. This analysis contributes to an improved understanding of national policies and challenges for setting up and implementing eflows in Europe.

Review of National Eflows Policies in Six European Countries

GOVAQUA policy matrix Part B

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Publication:Book Section
 
Book cover titled 'Współczesne Wyzwania Prawa Ochrony Klimatu', edited by Maria Magdalena Kenig-Witkowska, Anna Barczak, and Marcin Stoczkiewicz. The cover has a simple design with a white background and a blue section at the bottom. The publisher's logo, Wolters Kluwer, is visible at the lower left corner.
As an output of the international academic conference "Towards the Polish Climate Protection Act" on 7 September 2022 in Szczecin, Wolters Kluwer Poland has published an edited volume entitled "Współczesne Wyzwania Prawa Ochony Klimatu" (Contemporary challenges of climate law). Dr. Stephan Sina, Senior Fellow at Ecologic Institute, contributed an English language essay on the German Federal Climate Change Act. He describes the development and main features of the Act, as well as its revision based on the decision of the Federal Constitutional Court on 24 March 2021. He also presents lessons learned and good practices, and addresses challenges.

The German Federal Climate Change Act

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report titled 'Raising the bar on national climate governance in the EU' by the Ecologic Institute.
How EU policy can help Member States deliver certainty, accountability, consistency, and consensus in their policymaking on the road to net zero. A stocktaking of climate governance systems across EU Member States and assessment of EU policy options for their enhancement.

Raising the Bar on National Climate Governance in the EU

How EU policy can help Member States deliver certainty, accountability, consistency, and consensus on the road to net zero

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Publication:Infographic
 
An animated infographic depicting interconnected gears representing key elements of transformative EU climate policy. The gears are color-coded to represent different themes: yellow for integration, purple for infrastructure, green for innovation, and blue for investment. Each gear is labeled with specific actions or strategies, such as "Principled priority to climate & do-no-harm principle," "Strengthen EU Integrated Infrastructure Planning," and "European Climate Investment Plan."
To achieve climate neutrality, a whole-of-government approach, increased public funding, and strategic policy support are essential. The 4i-TRACTION project outlined ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action. This infographic, conceptualised and designed by Ecologic Institute, outlines ten policy recommendations for future EU climate action.

Ten Recommendations Towards Transformative EU Climate Policy

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Publication:Report
 
The image is a cover page for a report titled "State of EU progress to climate neutrality." The cover features the following elements: Title: The title "State of EU progress to climate neutrality" is prominently displayed in bold white text on a deep purple background. Subtitle: Below the title, the subtitle reads, "An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks for a climate neutral future." Date: The date "July 2024" is shown below the subtitle.
The European Climate Neutrality Observatory's (ECNO) second annual assessment of progress towards climate neutrality confirms that the EU is moving in the right direction, but that the pace is still too slow.

2024 Report: State of EU progress to climate neutrality

An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the 4i-TRACTION report "Fostering transformative climate governance? The potential of multilevel climate and energy dialogues A criteria-based assessment of Member States reports under Article 11 of the Governance Regulation"
This study assesses the progress of EU Member States in embedding participatory governance processes to foster transformative climate governance. Through comprehensive criteria-based analysis and in-depth interviews across several nations, this publication unveils the current state of MLCED implementation, challenges in stakeholder engagement, and the adequacy of mechanisms designed to steer us towards a climate-neutral future.

Fostering Transformative Climate Governance? The potential of multilevel climate and energy dialogues

A criteria-based assessment of Member States reports under Article 11

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Publication:Podcast
 
In this 4th episode, together with investment and finance experts Julie Evain (I4CE) and Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (I4CE), we unpack the regulatory framework for mobilizing green investments that are needed for a climate-neutral future. Can current EU financial policies provide predictability to economic actors? Which policies do we need to ensure long-term vision toward climate neutrality? We also explore the role of the banking sector and the use of banks' transition plans to ensure banks consider climate-related risks and direct investments properly.

Regulatory Leverage: How Can the EU Foster a Green Investment Shift?

Fourth episode of the podcast "CLIMATE ON AIR – Discussing the future of EU climate policy"

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the Ecologic report "Developing Germany’s Partnerships for Transformation. How can Germany’s Energy, Climate, Development and Raw Materials Partnerships become more transformative for a resilient transition to climate neutrality"
This report provides an independent, systematic analysis of the structures, activities, and impacts of Germany’s Energy, Climate, Development, and Raw Materials Partnerships (ECDRPs). A particular focus lies on the partnerships with countries of the Global South. Based on the analysis, the report provides recommendations for the development of Germany’s partnerships by answering the central question: How can Germany's ECDRPs be made as impactful as possible and more transformative for a resilient transition towards climate neutrality in Germany and its partner countries?

Developing Germany's Partnerships for Transformation

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the policy paper "Transforming EU land use and the CAP: a post-2024 visioni"
This paper makes a proposal for how future EU agricultural policy and particularly funding structures should evolve to better reflect sustainability challenges whilst supporting farmers and other land managers in a transition that also ensures viable businesses and vibrant rural areas. This is intended as a contribution to a wider debate on the future of EU food systems.

Transforming EU Land Use and the CAP: A post-2024 vision

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Publication:Report
 
Landscape of climate framework laws in Europe - Status update - cover
National climate framework laws have become a common approach for establishing the governance machinery required to tackle the transition to a climate neutral society. This memo serves as a brief update on the status and substance of such laws in Europe as of summer 2023, with a focus on framework laws aimed at achieving long-term transformational change.

The Landscape of National Climate Framework Laws in Europe

A Status Update – Summer 2023

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report titled 'Inventory of key EU Governance Frameworks'. At the top, a modern logo consisting of intertwined loops in multiple colors, representing the brand '4i TRACTION', which stands for innovation, investment, infrastructure, and integration. Belowa list of the authors in a smaller font. At the bottom the 4i TRACTION brand element at the bottom, subtly repeating the logo's color scheme.
This document outlines the development and structure of the EU Procedural Governance Inventory created within the scope of Work Package 5.2 of the 4i-TRACTION project. The inventory's objective is to present a list of the most important frameworks, institutions, and instruments that are relevant to procedural climate governance in the EU.

Inventory of Key EU Governance Frameworks

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report Progress on the implementation of national Multilievel Climate and Energy Dialogues: Assessing Member States Owen Reporting
This paper examines to what extent and how Member States have met the obligation to carry out multilevel climate and energy dialogues. It does so on the basis of national reporting on the mandatory implementation of multilevel climate and energy dialogues (MLCEDs) against the requirements set out in Article 11 of the Governance Regulation.

Progress on the Implementation of National Multilevel Climate and Energy Dialogues: Assessing Member States' own reporting

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Publication:Report
 
Climate laws
This policy paper serves as a German translation of a memo on the 'Landscape of climate framework laws in Europe'. It provides a brief overview of the current status of national climate laws in Europe. It focuses in detail on the pending revisions to the German Climate Protection Law passed in 2019 and amended in 2021.

Good Practice in europäischen nationalen Klimaschutzgesetzen

Input für den WWF Deutschland

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Publication:Report
 
Cover Forum Fischschutz Abschlussbericht 2023
The issue of fish protection and downstream fish migration is discussed intensively - even controversially - between and within the individual disciplines and areas of competence, both from a technical and an environmental policy perspective. The German Participatory Forum on Fish Protection and Downstream Migration has been dedicated to this discussion since 2012. This report, which concludes the German Participatory Forum on Fish Protection and Downstream Migration summarizes a selection of key issues from the forum's workshops across six central topics.

Forum Fischschutz und Fischabstieg: Ergebnisse und Ausblick

Abschlussbericht

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Publication:Report
 
A coherent German foreign climate policy is essential for the success of the national and European energy transition, as well as for the effective support of ambitious climate policies outside the European Union. This Ariadne background paper provides cornerstones and discusses options for the elaboration and further development of Germany's foreign climate policy. To this end, it distinguishes four categories of relevant goals: traditional climate policy goals, industrial policy goals, security and trade policy goals, and broader foreign policy goals. For each goal, it is necessary to identify appropriate means by which it can be achieved and barriers that stand in its way and need to be considered accordingly.

Eckpunkte zur Entwicklung einer Klimaaußenpolitikstrategie Deutschlands

Ariadne-Hintergrund

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report titled 'Transformative procedural climate governance: Mechanisms, functions, and assessment criteria'. At the top, a modern logo consisting of intertwined loops in multiple colors, representing the brand '4i TRACTION', which stands for innovation, investment, infrastructure, and integration. At the bottom, the authors' names and the 4i TRACTION brand element at the bottom, subtly repeating the logo's color scheme.
This report presents an approach to studying the EU’s procedural climate governance, namely the frameworks, instruments and institutions that shape and support the climate-related decision-making process of the EU.

Transformative Procedural Climate Governance

Mechanisms, functions, and assessment criteria

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of Ecologic Institute's report "Designing the EU 2040 climate target. Political context, level of ambition, implications for Member States and sectors"
This report by Ecologic Institute and the Oeko-Institut discusses the level of ambition of a 2040 EU climate target. The report analyses the implications of a 2040 climate target for Member States and sectors. It also discusses the political context in which the EU 2040 climate target will be negotiated.

Designing the EU 2040 Climate Target

Political context, level of ambition, implications for Member States and sectors

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the ECNO flagship report "State of EU progress to climate neutrality. An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks for a climate neutral future"
The EU Climate Law legally binds EU countries as a whole to become climate neutral by 2050. Achieving this goal requires transforming the way we produce, consume, travel, and eat. EU institutions have already put in place many measures to guide and support governments, businesses, and citizens in this transition. To be effective, policy-makers must now understand how – and at what pace – these measures translate into changes in the real world. The European Climate Neutrality Observatory (ECNO) flagship report is the first ever assessment to provide this information at an economy-wide level.

State of EU Progress to Climate Neutrality

An indicator-based assessment across 13 building blocks for a climate neutral future

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Publication:Document
 
Ecologic Climate Framework Laws Info-Matrix
The Climate Framework Laws Info-Matrix aims to collect, organize, and present information on the status and substance of national climate framework laws in Europe. It presents a side-by-side comparison of existing laws and their provisions across five main areas: targets, planning tools, monitoring mechanisms, institutions for expert advice, and participation processes.

Climate Framework Laws Info-Matrix

Gathering and presenting information on the status and substance of climate framework laws in European countries

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Publication:Report
 
Revising soil protection law
This draft report compiles seven legal discussion papers that were produced as part of a research project for the Federal Environment Ministry on modernising soil protection law. The discussion papers serve as a technical basis for preparing a draft bill and address the challenges identified by the BMUV in an evaluation (white paper of March 2022). The discussion papers elaborate several options and explain their pros and cons. They are intended to stimulate a broader technical discussion on soil protection law.

Überarbeitung des Bodenschutzrechts – Diskussionspapier

Ergebnisse zu ausgewählten Rechtsfragen

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Publication:Article
 
screenshot of the online article's header
Politics needs polarization, but too much of it is problematic. The German climate debate has long been characterized by a healthy degree of polarization. At present, however, there is a danger of excessive polarization, writes Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf in the Tagesspiegel. His OpEd discusses solutions.

Polarisierung in der richtigen Dosis

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Infographic
 
Graphic presenting the key figures of the Urban Governance Atlas at the time of launch.
The INTERLACE Urban Governance Atlas was launched in 2023. It invites political decision-makers, urban planners, researchers, civil society organizations, and all interested parties to delve into the success stories of 250 political instruments from 41 countries. These instruments support nature-based solutions and tools for ecosystem restoration. The Atlas aims to showcase what has made them successful, the lessons learned in their design and implementation, and the governance approaches they employ. Developed by the Ecologic Institute, the infographic provides a clear overview of what the Urban Governance Atlas is and who can benefit from it.

Urban Governance Atlas

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Publication:Article
 
Teaser of the online article "Emissionshandel droht mit Kohlenstoffzertifikaten auf Sand zu bauen "
The discussion on the certification of carbon removals seems technical, but it is one of the central debates in EU climate policy. It is primarily intended to pave the way for the integration of CO₂ removals into emissions trading. In doing so, the EU risks to build its most important climate policy instrument on sand, writes Dr. Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf of Ecologic Institute in the Tagesspiegel Background Energie & Klima. He makes suggestions how to mitigate this risk.

Emissionshandel droht mit Kohlenstoffzertifikaten auf Sand zu bauen

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Web Application
 
Graphic presenting the key figures of the Urban Governance Atlas at the time of launch.
The INTERLACE Urban Governance Atlas was officially launched on 11 May 2023 at the INTERLACE Cities Talk Nature Conference in Chemnitz. The first of its kind, the online database showcases 250 policy instruments from 41 countries supporting nature-based solutions and ecosystem restoration. The interactive design invites policymakers, urban planners, researchers, civil society organizations, and others to explore and learn more about what made the instruments successful, lessons learned in their design and implementation, and their approaches to governance.

Urban Governance Atlas

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the UBA report "In der Diskussion: Hydromorphologie. Ergebnisse der UBA Workshopreihe"
This report summarizes the results of the Hydromorphology workshop series (2008, 2012, 2016, 2021) of the German Federal Environment Agency in the form of a synthesis.

In der Diskussion: Hydromorphologie.

Ergebnisse der UBA Workshopreihe

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Publication:Report
 
Cover page of the report "Certification of carbon dioxide removals – Evaluation of the commission proposal"
On 30 November 2022, the Commission proposed an EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF). The Commission's proposal is an important initiative for promoting the implementation of carbon removals within the EU. It aims to help generate additional funding for removal activities. But, the proposal remains vague on crucial regulatory aspects.

Certification of Carbon Dioxide Removals

Evaluation of the Commission Proposal

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Publication:Document
 
Cover of the discussion paper "Can current EU climate policy reliably achieve climate neutrality by 2050? Post-2030 crunch issues for the move to a net zero economy"
The EU has just updated its climate target for 2030 and most of the policy instruments in place to achieve it. Does this toolbox have all the items needed to achieve the shift to net-zero emissions by 2050? This discussion paper by Oeko-Institut and Ecologic Institute addresses and analyses the main pillars of the EU's climate policy identifies crunch issues on the path towards climate neutrality and offers potential solutions.

Can Current EU Climate Policy Reliably Achieve Climate Neutrality by 2050?

Post-2030 crunch issues for the move to a net zero economy

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Publication:Document
 
Cover ECNO Website Concept
This document drafts a concept of the information architecture and user interface of the European Climate Neutrality Observatory (ECNO) website. It served to develop a common vision of the website and its data structure within the project team.

ECNO Website Concept

Planning the user interface and information architecture of the European Climate Neutrality Observatory's website

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Publication:Document
 
1st page of the document
This document provides country specific information on key elements from the 22 national long-term climate strategies extracted for the cross-country analysis in table format. It allows for selection of specific criteria as well as for the selection of specific countries.

Charting a Path to Net Zero: Country specific information

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Publication:Article
 
screenshot of the online article's header
The Commission's proposal to certify carbon removals is a climate policy milestone, but it steers EU climate policy towards dangerous shoals. Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf – together with Anne Siemons and Hannes Böttcher from Öko-Institut – discusses how to circumnavigate them in the Tagesspiegel.

Zertifizierung von Kohlestoffentnahme – viele Fragen, wenige Antworten

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Article
 
1st page of the article "Making Urban Water Management Tangible for the Public by Means of Digital Solutions"
This article written by Dr. Ulf Stein and Benedict Bueb from Ecologic Institute together with researchers of the French National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRAE) presents insights of two case studies, in Paris and Berlin, which investigated the potential of two mobile applications to make urban water management visible to the public and thus increase awareness about certain water management aspects.

Making Urban Water Management Tangible for the Public by Means of Digital Solutions

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report "Gemeinsame Umsetzung der 2030-Agenda / SDGs und des Pariser Abkommens"
The report summarises the results of a ReFoPlan project that dealt with interactions between the three agendas, possibilities of their integrated implementation and the development of Sustainable Adaptation Pathways. It provides an overview of the background and objectives, work packages, analysis results and the events held as part of the project.

Gemeinsame Umsetzung der 2030-Agenda / SDGs und des Pariser Abkommens

Abschlussbericht

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Publication:Article
 
Cover Journal Circular Economy and Sustainability
To tackle the "plastic crisis", the concept of circular economy has attracted considerable attention over the past years, both by practitioners and scholars alike. Against this background, Linda Mederake, Ecologic Institute, reflects in this opinion paper from a political scientist's point of view on key issues currently under discussion regarding the implementation of a circular plastics economy.

Without a Debate on Sufficiency, a Circular Plastics Economy will Remain an Illusion

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Publication:Article
 
first page of the article "The diagnostic water governance tool "
This article written by several researchers from Ecologic Institute provides a review of different digital tools and resources available to support related decision-making processes in the search for solutions for Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). Furthermore, it introduces the Diagnostic Water Governance Tool (DWGT) that builds on a clear diagnosis-therapy-logic.

The Diagnostic Water Governance Tool

Supporting cross-sectoral cooperation and coordination in water resources management

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Publication:Book Section
 
Cover of the book "Zukünfte nachhaltiger Bioökonomie. Kommunikation und Partizipation in neuen Wirtschaftsformen"
A democratic dialogue with a broad spectrum of stakeholders and the society is considered necessary for the transformation to a sustainable bio-based economy. As such, several dedicated bioeconomy strategies across Europe and beyond outline objectives towards broader stakeholder and public engagement. In this book chapter Zoritza Kiresiewa, Laurens Duin and Holger Gerdes address the degree of participation and the role of the individual actor groups and society in strategy development processes and recommend concrete actions for more inclusive and effective stakeholder and public engagement.

Limitations of Stakeholder and Public Engagement in Bioeconomy Strategy Development Processes

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Publication:Book
 
Cover of the book "Deforming the Reform. The Impact of Elites on Romania’s Post-accession Europeanization"
This open access book by Dr. Luana Martin-Russu of Ecologic Institute presents an actor-centered analysis on Europeanization based on the presumption that EU-driven reforms are strongly dependent on the actions and interests of the key domestic actors. It demonstrates that the European Union's policy of conditionality, however assertive or extensive, cannot guarantee compliance with its rules unless domestic political elites are committed to reform.

Deforming the Reform

The Impact of Elites on Romania's Post-accession Europeanization

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Publication:Report
 
cover of the concept paper "Konzept finale Website forum-fischschutz.de. Umwandlung des dynamischen Portals in eine statische Archiv-Website"
Kemper, Melanie, Ilka Merbold 2022: Konzept finale Website forum-fischschutz.de. Umwandlung des dynamischen Portals in eine statische Archiv-Website. Berlin, October 2022, unpublished.

Konzept finale Website forum-fischschutz.de

Umwandlung des dynamischen Portals in eine statische Archiv-Website

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
first page of the policy brief "What can the EU learn from non-EU countries on its path to climate neutrality?" with the main findings and recommendations
This policy brief summarizes the results of 17 case studies of non-EU countries. It presents the main lessons and takeaways for the EU along the four challenges that define the 4i-TRACTION project: facilitating integration across sectors, shifting investments, rolling out infrastructure and fostering innovation for a climate-neutral economy.

What Can the EU Learn from Non-EU Countries on its Path to Climate Neutrality?

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Publication:Article
 
screenshot of article's header
The EU Effort Sharing Regulation is of great importance for EU climate policy, but its revision hardly gets public attention. This is a problem. Without a public debate, important structural issues of EU climate policy could be set wrong. In the Tagesspiegel Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf makes proposals for a good outcome of the trialogue negotiations.

Falsche Weichenstellungen drohen

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Article
 
The Commission's proposal on the certification of Carbon Dioxide Removals (CDR) could be a milestone of EU climate policy making. It can put the EU on the right track – with a watertight CDR definition, and a firewall between removals and reductions; or the wrong track – dubious low-impact carbon removal schemes that pretend to offset what cannot be offset. As the integrity of EU climate policy is at stake, the EU cannot afford to take the wrong turn, writes Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf in the EU Observer.

Removing CO2 – Are member states actually ready?

Opinion

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Publication:Infographic
 
Puzzle pieces for charting a path to net-zero emissions.
Preparing and then adopting a robust and sufficiently detailed long-term climate strategy is a crucial step. These strategies should include pathways that identify the necessary changes in the main emitting sectors and the economy as a whole. The plans need to take into consideration the specific national starting conditions and include economic, technical and social aspects, as well as other long-term objectives (e.g., adaptation needs or biodiversity goals). This infographic shows puzzle pieces that should be considered when developing strategies for moving toward net-zero emissions.

Puzzle Pieces for Charting a Path to Net-zero Emissions

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Publication:Infographic
 
Understanding potential pathways towards net-zero
All EU member states should be clear on the role of emission reductions and removals, and ideally include specific long-term reduction and removal targets. LTSs should provide information about when and how these reductions and removals will be realised. This means strategies must include a description of pathways, including interim targets, to paint a clear picture of what needs to happen in the short- and longer term. This infographic visualizes different pathways of long-term strategies. It's part of the report "Charting a Path to Net Zero. An assessment of national long-term strategies in the EU." The report presents the findings from an assessment of 22 long-term strategies (LTSs) of the EU Member States available as of March 2022. It is complemented by a briefing that summarizes the key findings and recommendations.

Understanding Potential Pathways towards Net-zero

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Publication:Infographic
 
Enhancing LTS relevance for net-zero.
This infographic visualizes the proposed three-step process (preparation, implementation, monitoring) for EU member states to strengthen LTS relevance for net-zero. It's part of the report "Charting a Path to Net Zero. An assessment of national long-term strategies in the EU." The report presents the findings from an assessment of 22 long-term strategies (LTSs) of the EU Member States available as of March 2022. It is complemented by a briefing that summarizes the key findings and recommendations.

Enhancing LTS Relevance for Net-zero

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Publication:Document
 
first page of the summary "CHARTING A PATH TO NET ZERO: AN ASSESSMENT OF NATIONAL LONG-TERM STRATEGIES IN THE EU"
This summary distils the insights from the technical report "Charting a Path to Net Zero: An assessment of national long-term strategies in the EU" commissioned by the European Climate Foundation and written by Ecologic Institute. It summarizes the key findings and recommendations from an assessment of 22 long-term strategies (LTSs) of EU Member States available as of March 2022. The summary and the full technical report are available for download.

Charting a Path to Net Zero – Summary

An assessment of national long-term strategies in the EU

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the publication with net zero 2050 and Ecologic logo. Background image: Two young hikers in the mountains holding a map and looking down into the valley.
This report presents the findings from an assessment of 22 long-term strategies (LTSs) of the EU Member States available as of March 2022. It is complemented by a briefing that summarizes the key findings and recommendations. The analysis looked at two distinct qualities of strategies: the vision of a low-emission future represented in the pathways and projections of the LTS as well as the preparation and use of the strategy as a tool to guide policy decisions, in other words its relevance in national climate policy.

Charting a Path to Net Zero

An assessment of national long-term strategies in the EU

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the T20 policy brief "towards an international agreement on plastic pollution: the role of the G20
This policy brief investigates the gaps in the existing international treaties on marine plastic pollution and proposes components that need to be considered in a new treaty. These proposals will complement the G20 work on plastic pollution. Furthermore, since the G20 summit will be held in Indonesia in 2022, the focus of this policy brief will not only be relevant to G20 countries but also to Southeast Asia as the biggest contributor of marine plastics.

Towards an International Agreement on Plastic Pollution: The Role of the G20

T20 Policy Brief

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Publication:Report
 
Ecologic report cover "Carbon Dioxide Removals in EU Member States. National frameworks for Carbon Dioxide Removals: State of play and how to improve it"
It is unlikely that the deployment of CO2 removal (CDR) at the required scales will happen as a side effect of other policies. Large-scale CDR deployment will not happen by accident, but needs time, incentives, and clear rules. Without strategic orientation, it is also hard to balance the multiple implications of each CDR option for societies, economies and ecosystems. Member States' CDR strategies could be a first step to trigger the necessary public debate and to help create an adequate framework for CO2 removal.

Carbon Dioxide Removals in EU Member States

National frameworks for Carbon Dioxide Removals: State of play and how to improve it

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Publication:Case Study
 
Cover of the case study "marine conservation in the Alaskan Arctic"
The case study provides an overview of the Alaskan marine Arctic environment in terms of: 1) the state and status of its ecosystems and their biodiversity; 2) the drivers and associated pressures that impact marine ecosystem health, as well as 3) the policies in place to protect the marine environment, in particular through marine protected areas.

Marine Conservation in the Alaskan Arctic

ArkMPA Case Study: USA / Alaska

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Publication:Case Study
 
Title page of the Canada ArkMPA-case study
This report contains one of six case studies of the ArkMPA, including five on marine policies in states bordering the Arctic Ocean, and one overarching regional report. The case study provides an overview of the Canadian marine Arctic environment in terms of: 1) the state and status of its ecosystems and their biodiversity; 2) the drivers and associated pressures that impact marine ecosystem health, as well as 3) the policies in place to protect the marine environment, in particular through marine protected areas.

Marine Conservation in the Canadian Arctic

ArkMPA Case Study: Canada

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cover of the policy brief "The Arctic blue economy. Current state, developments, and implications for marine conservation"
This policy brief surveys the current state and recent development of the Arctic blue economy in the five Arctic coastal states (Canada, Denmark, USA, Russia and Norway), as well as the Arctic High Seas, to understand potential impacts on Arctic marine biodiversity. It also analyses the driving factors behind these developments.

The Arctic Blue Economy

Current state, developments, and implications for marine conservation

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Publication:Article
 
1st page of the online article's print version "Building climate resilience through nature-based solutions in Europe: A review of enabling knowledge, finance and governance frameworks"
In this paper, the authors review recent EU-supported research, policy, and practices to identify critical dimensions that still need to be addressed for greater uptake of NBS. While recognising the multiple societal challenges NBS can target, the authors build on the key messages from the '5th European Climate Change Adaptation conference ECCA 2021' and focus their analysis on NBS for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.

Building Climate Resilience through Nature-based Solutions in Europe

A review of enabling knowledge, finance and governance frameworks

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Publication:Article
 
articles first page (print version)
This article explores approaches applied by transregional organisations and cooperation programmes that constitute the governance system in the European Arctic. Specifically, it scrutinises governing interactions developed by the Barents Regional Council and the Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme to overcome the normative trap of the Arctic development paradox. The article answers two questions: First, how do the transregional actors approach the Arctic development paradox in their cooperation strategies and programmes, and to what extent do these approaches differ? Second, what kind of recommendations do they provide to overcome the Arctic development paradox?

Governability of Regional Challenges: The Arctic Development Paradox

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Publication:Document
 
Cover of the paper "Conference on the Future of Europe. What is next for EU climate policies? with logo and key messsages
On 9 May 2022, Europe Day, the Conference on the Future of Europe (CFE) closed – with the adoption of 49 recommendations. This is not the end of the process, but the beginning of new political action. With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the role of the CFE as a starting point for renewed discussions on important topics such as climate, energy policy and EU democracy has been reiterated. Indeed, many recommendations from the CFE address EU climate policies – especially the ones prepared by its third citizens' panel on climate change, the environment and health. In this Ecologic Institute paper, Deyana Spasova questions how the panel's recommendations can improve EU climate policy? Where do the recommendations merely reiterate what is already in place? And how could the EU best translate the suggestions into policy action? The paper is available for download.

Conference on the Future of Europe

What is next for EU climate policies?

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Publication:Report
 
Report Cover "Global Rules in a New Global Treaty"
In March 2022, at the resumed fifth meeting of the United Nations Environment Assembly, UN Member States adopted the historic decision to start negotiating a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. As national delegations and relevant stakeholders in Asia start preparing for the upcoming negotiations, this report by Linda Mederake and Doris Knoblauch (both Ecologic Institute), aims to provide an analysis of the region’s opportunities to end single-use plastics (SUPs) pollution through the development of this new global treaty.

Global Rules in a New Global Treaty: Asia's opportunity to end single-use plastic pollution

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Publication:Article
 
Citizen assemblies are in high demand – also in the EU. The European Commission wants citizen assemblies to draft future recommendations for key EU legislative projects. The European Parliament is pushing in the same direction. It seems likely that citizen assemblies will become an integral part of the EU decision-making. Dr. Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf asks if this is a good idea and what lessons can be learned from the EU Citizen Assemblies?

The People Have not Spoken

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Publication:Report
 
Experts from Ecologic Institute, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, RWI – Leibniz Institute for Economic Research, Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change, Stiftung Umweltenergierecht, ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research and IER Stuttgart analyzed various options for the relief and level of the CO2 price – and identified advantages and disadvantages as well as implementation requirements of different design options. The focus is on two key political points of contention, where scientific findings can prevent an impending hardening of the position and thus promote a consensus that is conducive to climate protection. This German-language abridged version summarizes the findings.

Ein fairer und solidarischer EU-Emissionshandel für Gebäude und Straßenverkehr

Zusammenfassung

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Publication:Report
 
In this Ariadne publication, experts from Ecologic Institute, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, RWI – Leibniz Institute for Economic Research, Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change, Stiftung Umweltenergierecht, ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research and IER Stuttgart analyzed various options for the relief and level of the CO2 price – and identified advantages and disadvantages as well as implementation requirements of different design options. The focus is on two key political points of contention, where scientific findings can prevent an impending hardening of the position and thus promote a consensus that is conducive to climate protection.

A Fair and Solidarity-based EU Emissions Trading System for Buildings and Road Transport

Ariadne Report

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Publication:Article
 
anonymous group of people
Not democratically elected, but popular: Citizen councils can strengthen public participation in the EU, but they must not be overrated. Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf discusses in the IPG Journal how citizen councils can be involved in EU decision-making in the future.

Ultimative Bürgerbeteiligung?

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the report "The use of auctioning revenues from the EU ETS for climate action"
This report analysed if and how EU Member States used their auctioning revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for climate action. For this purpose, we selected eight case study countries, namely Czech, Germany, Greece, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal. As part of these case studies, we examined the reporting, the legal provisions and the political narrative around auctioning revenues through desk research and expert interviews.

The Use of Auctioning Revenues from the EU ETS for Climate Action – Technical Report

An analysis based on eight selected case studies

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Publication:Brochure
 
Cover of the peer learning note "Urban Ecosystem Restoration and Nature-based Solutions"
The Peer Learning note seeks to share practices and lessons. It provides good practice examples from different cities and peri-urban areas in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Spain and Colombia on how to integrate nature in the search for a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient urban development. The Peer Learning Note is targeted at cities, local and regional governments, communities and organizations worldwide interested in the topic of urban restoration.

Urban Ecosystem Restoration & Nature-based Solutions

UCLG Peer Learning Note #31

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Publication:Flyer
 
workshop flyer with metadata of the workshop and background information
Ecologic Institute coordinated the organisation of the 9th Workshop on Fish Protection and Downstream Migration, dedicated to the topic of "Technical-Hydraulic Assessment of Fish Protection and Downstream Migration at Hydropower Plants". A programme flyer were developed and designed to provide relevant content on conference context, agenda, and the venue in a concerted way to participants.

9. Workshop des Forums Fischschutz und Fischabstieg

Technisch-hydraulische Bewertung von Fischschutz und Fischabstieg an Wasserkraftanlagen

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Publication:Article
 
Teaser of the online publication
The Environment Committee of the European Parliament adopted its reform proposals for the EU Climate Action Regulation last Monday. These contain important improvements, but overall they are disappointing, says Nils Meyer-Ohlendorf in the Tagesspiegel.

Weniger Sonntagsreden bei der Klimaschutzverordnung

Article in the Tagesspiegel

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Publication:Website
 
Screenshot der Website
The Ecologic Institute designed and developed the theme day website "Plastic in the Environment". It contained the event documentation and programme information.

Thementag: Plastik in der Umwelt

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Publication:Policy Brief
 
Cober of the summary "The use of auctioning revenues from the EU ETS for climate action"
This study analysed if and how EU Member States used their auctioning revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for climate action. For this purpose, we selected eight case study countries, namely Czech, Germany, Greece, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal. As part of these case studies, we examined the reporting, the legal provisions and the political narrative around auctioning revenues through desk research and expert interviews.

The Use of Auctioning Revenues from the EU ETS for Climate Action – Summary

An analysis based on eight selected case studies

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Publication:Report
 
Cover of the UBA report "The European Commission’s 2050 Vision „A clean planet for all” – Implications for Sector Strategies and Climate Governance"
The central objective of the work presented in this report was to assess the European Commission's Strategic Long-Term Vision and supplementary materials and reflect on them in light of state-of-the-art sector analyses.

The European Commission's 2050 Vision "A clean planet for all"

Implications for Sector Strategies and Climate Governance

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Publication:Report
 
Raffaele Piria Ariadne Analysis
This paper is a slight adaptation of the German-language analysis "Wasserstoffimportsicherheit für Deutschland – Zeitliche Entwicklung, Risiken und Strategien auf dem Weg zur Klimaneutralität", published in December 2021. The analysis takes a close look at Germany’s future need for hydrogen imports, hydrogen import-related risks as well as strategies to secure hydrogen imports.

Securing Hydrogen Imports for Germany: Import needs, risks and strategies on the way to climate neutrality

Ariadne-Analysis

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Publication:Document
 
Cover of the scientific opinion paper "Making EU climate governance fit for net zero"
The paper "Making EU Governance Fit for Net Zero" analyses the current landscape of climate policy governance against eight core parameters at EU level and for Member States, and identifies a number of remaining weaknesses. Improvements should address several key processes, such as updating of the NECPs in 2023-2024 and of national LTSs and the new progress and consistency assessments under the EU Climate Law.

Making EU Climate Governance Fit for Net Zero

Scientific opinion paper

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Publication:Article
 
The article reflects on the 59th Tutzing Symposion entitled "Polymers for a better life and circular economy" that took place as an online event in October 2021. Based on the presentations at the symposium, the contribution provides an overview of current debates on the circular plastics economy, as well as insights into existing political regulations, present challenges, and possible future developments with regard to this major societal project.

Eine Kreislaufwirtschaft für Kunststoffe – Aktuelle Diskussionen, Trends und politische Herausforderungen

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Publication:Article
 
This article explores how (in)coherence in policies and responsibilities affects coordination at process and outcome level. It presents a rigorous comparative study of cross-sectoral coordination in six river basins worldwide. The authors, among them Ecologic Institute's Dr. Ulf Stein, observe that coherence can favor coordination at the process level, but it remains difficult to establish causality. Coherence of policies and responsibilities does not change the relationship between process-level and outcome-level coordination.

Effects of Policy and Functional (In)coherence on Coordination

A comparative analysis of cross-sectoral water management problems

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