The turning point has come. The European Parliament has established a ban on the European Regional Development Fund (FESR) to finance investments in fossil fuels. The years 2021-2027 will have to be characterized by innovative directions in the field of renewable sources. There will no longer be an excuse to hinder innovations and the use of polluting carriers. The count on the measure in Strasbourg was 475 votes in favour, 93 against and 53 abstentions. An ample majority, therefore, that will change the energy policies of individual states.
The discussion, however, also led to the proposal to introduce a ban on financing airport infrastructure, waste disposal and the treatment of residual waste. All on the initiative of the Pd MEP Andrea Cozzolino, who commented: “With the new regulation we have introduced the principle that co-financing to the structural funds can also take place through the use of flexibility. A significant novelty ".
The approved text also indicates, furthermore, of allocate a significant part of the post-2020 ERDF resources to "smart growth" and the green economy. The Eurochamber has also launched a great assist to the Regions. They will have to spend 30 to 50% of ERDF funding for a more digital and innovative Europe. Another 30% will necessarily have to go to the fight against climate change and the circular economy. The Italian ones, behind with the climate-energy programs and plans, have the opportunity to make up for the accumulated delays and try to use the money allocated and not spent. Businesses are waiting for nothing else.
Another novelty in the approved text is greater attention to cities, taking into account the territorial, economic and social diversity of European regions. In practice, the use of at least 10% of ERDF funds at national level for sustainable urban development. From the Italian point of view this will have to translate into interventions on buildings, public structures, means of transport. It will be interesting to see how mayors and governors engage with government and the world of work to harmonize investment. In any case, the European Cohesion Fund will continue to be used mainly for spending on environmental and transport infrastructures. Next step, the green light from the European Council.
