SmartBirds
On 10 December, the planned legislative changes in the field of environmental protection are expected to be announced. The European Union plans to simplify the laws and reduce the administrative burden for businesses. One way it is trying to do this is through special legislative “omnibus” packages — a set of measures intended to streamline rules all at once. The EU claims that this will reduce bureaucracy for businesses and citizens, boost innovation and competitiveness, and improve policy implementation at the European level.
When it comes to the environment, however, simplification may come at a high cost. There are concerns that it could be used as a cover to weaken or remove key parts of certain laws, reducing essential protections for nature, public health, and social rights. For businesses as well, rushed or unclear changes can create uncertainty and hinder long-term planning. An increasing number of stakeholders and politicians warn that public consultations are insufficient, and that there is a lack of transparency, clear and agreed procedures, and reliable scientific evidence.
