Facilitating market development across the EU

The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic union of 27 European countries committed to regional integration and cooperation. Founded in the aftermath of World War II, the EU has grown to cover a wide range of policy areas, including trade, agriculture, fisheries, and regional development. A major focus of the EU today is the energy transition, aiming to shift towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy as part of the European Green Deal. This ambitious plan aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 by increasing energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy sources, and investing in clean technologies. Critical to this transition is the EU's legislation on critical minerals, essential for producing renewable energy technologies like batteries and wind turbines. The EU is actively working to secure a stable supply chain for these minerals, reducing dependency on external sources and ensuring sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. Furthermore, the EU emphasizes Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, integrating them into corporate policies to promote sustainability and social responsibility across supply chains. These efforts address climate change, enhance energy security, and create economic opportunities, positioning the EU as a global leader in environmental sustainability and innovation.