Voxeurop
Is biomethane the long term solution to stabilising EU energy markets?
Biogas and biomethane can reduce the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere and increase energy flexibility. Policy frameworks, technological improvements and increased cooperation between countries are making biogas and biomethane more accessible, with projections for the two energy sources to triple between 2030 and 2050.
Are we ready for the next pandemic?
The European Union’s failure to prepare for the Covid-19 pandemic was due to a lack of research funding, argue several prominent researchers. This has resulted in the spending of billions of euros to fight the virus and its consequences.
Subsidised train tickets: Germany and Spain set an example
Several initiatives are underway in Europe to support train travel in the wake of the disruption caused by the pandemic. It turns out that fare subsidies can have a significant impact.
Europe is spending billions to fight immigration: to what end?
Launched in November 2015, the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa (EUTF) was intended to promote stability and fight against “the root causes of irregular migration and displaced persons”. Five billion euros have been approved for 250 projects in 26 African countries. But what results has the fund produced?
Covid-19 vaccine access for undocumented migrants: a missed opportunity for European public health
A survey coordinated by Lighthouse Reports and Picum reveals that when it comes to vaccinating undocumented residents, governments have often not done enough, and sometimes nothing at all, putting the health of the general population at risk.
Prisons contained the pandemic at the expense of human rights
In many European countries, containing the spread of Covid-19 has come at the price of human rights. European prisoners have had to endure extended isolation, suspended visiting hours, and the cancellation of training and recreational activities.
Big Tobacco lobbies battle for smoke-free products taxation
As the EU sets its sights on harmonising taxation of the rising e-cigarette and heated tobacco products market, lobbyists fight to keep prices down and smokers hooked. The forthcoming negotiations are intertwined with the bitter competition between the two industry giants.
EU banks are funding an illegal palm oil bonanza in the “Wild East”
Financial institutions from European countries have provided large sums of money to palm oil companies responsible for illegal fires and possibly deforestation in Indonesia.
Homeschooling: most parents and caregivers unhappy with distance learning
A Eurofound report reveals that despite being provided with the necessary tools and supported remotely by teachers, most parents and legal guardians of children in primary and secondary schools are dissatisfied with distance learning.
