To prevent water shortages in the EU, Parliament today approved the Water Reuse Regulation. The new law defines minimum requirements at European level for the first time for reclaimed water (i.e. urban wastewater that has been treated in a reclamation plant) to be used for agricultural purposes in a safe way, protecting people and the environment.

The Commission is taking swift action and proposes additional exceptional measures to further support agricultural and food markets most affected. The EU agri-food sector is showing resilience in these unprecedented times, following the outbreak of the coronavirus.

Agri-food and drink products whose names are protected by the European Union as “Geographical Indications” (GIs) represent a sales value of €74.76 billion, according to a study published today by the European Commission.

With measures along the entire life cycle of products, the new Action Plan aims to make our economy fit for a green future, strengthen our competitiveness while protecting the environment and give new rights to consumers.

The BlueInvest Fund will be managed by the European Investment Fund and will provide financing to underlying equity funds that strategically target and support the innovative blue economy.

The Council exchanged views on the European Green Deal and the regulation on CAP transitional rules.

The Council reached a political agreement on catch limits in the Atlantic and North Sea for 2020 and agreed on a general approach on a crisis package for Baltic Sea fisheries. The Council also had an exchange of views on a progress report on the post-2020 CAP reform package.