European elections: a crucial vote for the planet

In the next decade, the decisions we make will be crucial for the future of our planet. In June 2024, the European Parliament elections offer us a unique opportunity to influence the direction Europe takes in terms of environmental policies. The climate crisis, biodiversity loss and pollution are reaching alarming levels, and we need to act with urgency and determination. The European Union has historically been a driving force in the global green agenda, and in these elections, we have much more at stake than parliamentary seats; We are risking our future and that of the next generations.

We are living in an era of multiple crises. The climate crisis threatens a global temperature rise of 2.9°C above pre-industrial levels, with Europe warming even faster. This situation brings with it extreme weather events that directly affect our communities. On the other hand, the loss of biodiversity is leading to the extinction of species at an unprecedented rate, which threatens the stability of the ecosystems on which we depend. Furthermore, air, water and soil pollution remains a serious threat to public health and the well-being of all living beings.

The United Nations General Assembly recently recognized the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. This recognition underscores the importance of protecting our environment not only as an environmental necessity, but as a fundamental human right. A healthy environment is essential not only for the survival of species, but also for the economy and human health. Healthy ecosystems provide vital services such as water purification, crop pollination, and climate regulation. Environmental degradation, therefore, is not only an ecological issue, but an economic and social issue and affects people’s rights. This reinforces the urgency of adopting policies that guarantee a healthy environment for all.

The importance of the EU in green policies

The European Union has been a world leader in promoting ambitious environmental policies. Initiatives like the European Green Deal have established clear goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy and protect biodiversity. Since COP28, the EU aims to triple the installed renewable energy capacity and double the energy efficiency rate by 2030. However, despite these advances, we need to redouble our efforts. The EU must commit to a climate-neutral Union by 2040 and pollution-free by 2030. And all this must be done without leaving anyone behind, the ecological and energy transition must be a just transition.

In recent months, we have seen how essential EU policies and regulations have been weakened or even blocked by pressure from some parties with the elections approaching. These setbacks are alarming and demonstrate the need to elect representatives committed to the environmental agenda.

EU environmental policy does not only affect Europe. Given its global influence, decisions made here have repercussions around the world. European regulations often serve as a model for other regions and countries, driving positive change globally. These elections are therefore an opportunity to strengthen and expand the EU’s leadership in the fight against the environmental crisis.

We have an unavoidable responsibility to future generations. If we do not act now, we will leave a legacy of climate disasters, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation that will be difficult, if not impossible, to reverse. Today’s youth are already raising their voices, demanding action and social and climate justice. It is our duty to listen to them and take decisive action.

A call to action

In these European elections, every vote counts. We must elect representatives who understand the urgency of the environmental crisis and are willing to take bold action. Parties, as well as candidates who prioritize social justice, environmental protection and sustainability must be our option. The question we must ask ourselves is: What party and what candidates can ensure that we live in a better world?

By voting, we are choosing the future we want. A future where people are at the center, ecosystems are restored and protected, where the air we breathe and the water we drink are clean, and the economy is transformed to be more fair and sustainable. This is a call to all citizens: participate in the elections, vote for the future of the planet, and ensure that your vote is conscious and reflective.

These elections are not just a question of politics, but of survival. It is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to climate and environmental justice, and to demonstrate that we are willing to make the decisions necessary to protect our planet. The future is in our hands, and now more than ever, we must act.

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