OUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE AND SELECTED PROJECTS
Explore our work across the circular economy, climate change, chemicals, marine and water protection, and biodiversity through selected projects supporting EU institutions and public authorities.
Circular economy
The circular economy is a policy and economic model that aims to decouple growth from resource use by keeping products, materials, and value in circulation for as long as possible. It promotes waste prevention, reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing and high-quality recycling.
In the EU context, the circular economy supports strategic objectives for competitiveness, resource security, climate neutrality, and industrial resilience. By reducing dependence on virgin raw materials and limiting environmental pressures across value chains, circular approaches can help to address multiple policy priorities simultaneously, including greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, biodiversity protection and supply-chain risk mitigation.
Over the past decade, the EU has progressively embedded circular economy principles into its legislative and policy framework, notably through the Circular Economy Action Plans and related initiatives under the European Green Deal. For example, the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation includes requirements on durability, reparability and resource efficiency. The Clean Industrial Deal highlights the role of circularity in providing critical raw materials for the EU’s economy.
The OECD regularly assesses the environmental performance of its member countries. In this project, we prepared the chapter on waste management and circular economy for OECD’s Environmental Performance Review of Austria.
Our senior expert was a member of the OECD team on the review mission to Austria, we drafted the chapter on circular economy, including addressing comments from the OECD
Secretariat and the Austrian government, took part in a high-level policy meeting with the Austrian government, and presented the main conclusions and recommendations to the OECD Working Party on Environmental Performance.
The chapter included close-ups of four sectors and their waste/resource streams: construction, textile, food, and electronic and electrical equipment.
Read the report here.
This study supported the implementation of the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) by assessing the interlinkages between product safety and the circular economy, including convergences and divergences.
The study mapped and evaluated the context of the circular economy in the EU, including active businesses operators, circular business models used and types of products involved. It then identified related product safety issues and the application of GPSR rules. Its recommendations considered how legislation can address ongoing safety issues.
Read the study here.
We reviewed and assessed four topics relevant for Local and Regional Authorities (LRAs) in the European Commission’s new Circular Economy Action Plan:
• Main approaches that LRAs are taking for the transition to a circular economy
• Links between EU environmental legislation and LRA actions for the circular economy, including challenges and opportunities for their main approaches
• Realistic but ambitious targets and commitments that LRAs could take in their approaches for the transition to a circular economy, as well as key targets and commitments for an EU framework
• Main needs of LRAs and areas where the EU could provide support
Climate change
With overwhelming consensus among scientists that ambitious and urgent action on climate change is necessary, there is a growing need to ensure that EU action effectively reduces emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement, while also ensuring that Europeans are able to adapt to the inevitable impacts of climate change.
At EU level, climate action is anchored in a comprehensive legal and policy framework, notably the European Climate Law, which enshrines the objective of climate neutrality by 2050, and the Fit for 55 package, which revises key instruments such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the Effort Sharing Regulation and the Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) Regulation. Climate considerations are mainstreamed across EU policies through instruments such as National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), long-term strategies and climate-proofing requirements under EU funding programmes.
Achieving the EU’s climate neutrality objective requires coherent action across sectors, effective governance frameworks and robust implementation of climate legislation at EU, national, regional and local levels. Sound legal and policy design, as well as consistent monitoring and enforcement, are essential to ensure that climate objectives translate into real-world emission reductions and resilience on the ground.
We have supported effective EU climate policy development since 2011, through our work with the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Committee of the Regions, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the European Investment Bank (EIB). Our support to EU institutions and public authorities includes compliance assessments, policy assessments and mainstreaming analyses of policies and funds.
As part of a framework contract with the Directorate-General for Environment (DG ENV) for ‘Conformity checking of Member States’ measures to transpose and apply EU environmental legislation’, we provided DG CLIMA with 39 studies analysing the transposition and conformity of national measures of selected Member States with:
• Directive (EU) 2023/959 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 May 2023 (ETS 1 & ETS Aviation);
• Directive (EU) 2023/958 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 May 2023 (ETS 2).
The Commission uses these studies as background information to ensure that the directives are fully and correctly transposed in the Member States, in accordance with Article 258 of the TFEU.
The study analysed the role of local and regional authorities (LRAs) in the Fit for 55 package and the energy transition. We provided the CoR ENVE Commission with:
• A mapping of the relevant changes introduced by the Fit for 55 package with particular relevance for LRAs
• An overview of existing and newly established financial and non-financial support mechanisms for the implementation of energy efficiency, renewable energy and energy performance of buildings policies by LRAs
• Examples of best practices from local implementation and identification of challenges and opportunities for LRAs
• A set of 27 country fiches summarising the relevant provisions and experiences from LRAs based on NECPs
• A set of policy recommendations on accompanying measures and initiatives to ensure that LRAs can smoothly and effectively implement new energy legislation under the Fit for 55 package.
Read the study here.
The study outlined how Cohesion Policy supports regions to adapt to climate change and identified potential improvements to optimise its impact in diverse economic sectors. We provided the European Parliament REGI Committee with:
• An overview of the EU adaptation strategy and policy instruments used to strengthen regional resilience to climate change
• A qualitative and quantitative mapping of Cohesion Policy support for adaptation in the 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 periods
• A discussion on the implications of climate adaptation on the future of Cohesion Policy, focusing on the diverse regions in the EU and different sectors, promoting regions’ resilience to climate change and sustainable economic growth
• A set of recommendations for tailored programmes, including emergency measures to enhance adaptability and responsiveness to unforeseen challenges
Read the study here.
Chemicals
The regulation of chemicals is a pillar of EU environmental and health policy, aimed at ensuring that substances placed on the market do not pose unacceptable risks to human health or the environment. The EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, adopted in 2020, set an ambitious agenda for a toxic-free environment, including the phase-out of the most harmful substances, the promotion of safer alternatives, and enhanced enforcement and compliance across Member States.
We have provided legal and policy support to EU institutions and other clients on chemicals regulation for 20 years. Our work spans legislative analysis, impact assessments, compliance studies and reporting exercises, supporting both the design and implementation of the EU chemicals framework.
ZeroPM is a Horizon 2020 research project aiming to establish an evidence-based multilevel framework for minimising use, emissions and pollution from Persistent, Mobile and Toxic (PMT) and very Persistent and very Mobile (vPvM) substances. PMT/vPvM substances remain in the environment over long timescales, are able to travel large distances with water, and have negative effects on ecosystems and humans. We lead the policy work package, which seeks to support policy changes to more effectively tackle PMT/vPvM substances.
Together with scientists from all ZeroPM work packages, we have developed policy options for preventing emissions and promoting substitution and remediation of PMT/vPvM substances. These options are being developed into a series of policy briefs.
We also maintain a regulatory watch throughout the project to track EU policy developments and ensure that ZeroPM results are fed into ongoing regulatory processes.
Read the policy briefs here and the regulatory watch here.
This study assessed the socioeconomic costs associated with environmental exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). We carried out a series of case studies on well-documented cases of PFAS contamination, exposure and remediation across Europe, gathering data on exposure pathways, remediation costs and impacts on human health and the environment. The environmental and health impacts of PFAS contamination were then estimated through economic modelling and risk assessment, and the findings were reviewed against existing guidelines and thresholds in European countries and the United States (US). The study contributed to the evidence base for regulatory action on PFAS at EU level.
Read the study here.
As a means of reducing non-compliance, the Sustainable Chemical Strategy adopted in 2020 proposes ‘to entrust the Commission with the duty to carry out audits in Member States, where relevant, to ensure compliance and enforcement of chemicals legislation, in particular REACH, and use infringement procedures as necessary’. In this study, we assisted DG ENV to identify how best to establish a European audit capacity and effective control and enforcement systems for the REACH Regulation at EU level. We also supported the development of criteria and standards applicable to control and enforcement systems for the regulation in Member States. The study assessed the possible extension of these actions for the CLP, POP and PIC Regulations.
Read the study here.
Marine
Europe’s seas are essential to environmental sustainability, food security, economic development and the well-being of coastal communities. They support key sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, offshore energy and tourism, while providing vital ecosystem services.
Marine ecosystems are under increasing pressure from climate change, pollution, habitat degradation, overexploitation of resources, the introduction of non-indigenous species and growing competition for maritime space. Ensuring the sustainable use and protection of marine environments is therefore a central priority for the EU.
EU action is framed by key instruments such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), which aims to achieve Good Environmental Status (GES) of EU marine waters, and the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (MSPD), which promotes coordinated and sustainable management of maritime activities. These frameworks are complemented by broader EU initiatives on biodiversity protection, fisheries management, the blue economy and integrated ocean governance, including emerging policy developments such as the European Ocean Pact.
For over a decade, we have supported EU institutions with the implementation, evaluation and further development of EU marine policy and legislation. Our work spans the full policy cycle and includes compliance assessments, technical and policy studies, impact assessments, support to the Common Implementation Strategy under the MSFD, and stakeholder consultation and coordination. We work closely with the European Commission, EU agencies and national authorities to strengthen the knowledge base, governance frameworks and practical tools needed to support effective and coherent management of Europe’s seas.
We have supported the European Commission in the implementation of the MSFD through successive service contracts since 2010. This work includes technical, legal and administrative support to the Common Implementation Strategy, assistance to technical working groups on topics such as marine litter, underwater noise and data, and support to the Commission in assessing Member States’ marine strategies, including their GES determinations, status assessments, environmental targets, monitoring programmes, programmes of measures and use of exemptions. The project also contributes to the evaluation and review of the MSFD, the development of reporting tools and data visualisation products, and communication and dissemination activities. Through this long-term engagement, we play a key role in strengthening the evidence base and governance framework supporting the protection of Europe’s marine environment.
Read Member State technical reports here.
This study supported the European Commission to prepare its second report on the implementation of the MSPD across EU coastal Member States. The project reviewed legal and administrative developments and maritime spatial plans adopted or revised since 2021, providing an updated assessment of progress and laying the groundwork for the forthcoming evaluation of the MPSD. It also examined how maritime spatial planning contributes to broader EU policy priorities, including the objectives of the European Green Deal.
Our work included an assessment of national implementation frameworks and a comparative analysis of how key provisions of the MPSD have been implemented across Member States, including cross-border cooperation, stakeholder engagement and the integration of maritime sectors such as energy, fisheries, transport, conservation and tourism. We also examined the environmental dimension of maritime spatial planning, including the use of strategic environmental assessments (SEA), the application of the ecosystem-based approach (EBA), the consideration of cumulative impacts, and links with environmental legislation. The study reviewed alignment with the objectives of the European Green Deal and identified key implementation challenges and emerging needs across Member States.
Read the study here.
The EU Mission ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters’ aims to protect and restore the health of marine and freshwater ecosystems by 2030 through research and innovation, citizen engagement and blue investments. This project supports CINEA and the European Commission to implement the mission, including the development of a Mission Implementation Platform and a European Blue Parks Community support service.
We contribute to the design and operationalisation of tools supporting the coordination and follow-up of mission activities and results. Most notably, we lead the development of the methodology and systems used to assess progress towards the mission’s objectives, working closely with partners on data collection processes, indicator frameworks and the visualisation of results. This work supports the Commission to track implementation, strengthen cooperation and support evidence-based decision-making.
Visit Mission Ocean portal here.
Water
Rivers, lakes, groundwater and coastal waters provide drinking water, support agriculture and industry, and sustain biodiversity and recreation. Protecting Europe’s freshwater resources is essential for human health, ecosystems and economic activities. These resources are under increasing pressure from pollution originating from agriculture, industry and urban areas, hydromorphological changes, climate change, floods and growing risks of water scarcity and drought. Ensuring sustainable and integrated water management is a key environmental, social and economic challenge for the EU.
EU water policy is built around a comprehensive legislative framework, notably the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), which establishes a holistic approach to protecting and restoring Europe’s water bodies, alongside the Floods Directive (2007/60/EC), the Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC), the Drinking Water Directive (2020/2184/EU) and the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (2024/3019/EU). Together, these instruments aim to improve water quality, reduce risks to people and ecosystems, and promote long-term resilience through integrated river basin management.
For many years, we have supported the European Commission and public authorities with the implementation, evaluation and enforcement of EU water legislation. Our work covers the full policy cycle and includes compliance and implementation assessments, policy and programme evaluations, impact assessments, technical studies and support to monitoring, reporting and data analysis processes. We assist EU institutions in understanding implementation challenges across Member States and strengthening the effectiveness, coherence and evidence base of EU water policy, contributing to better protection and sustainable management of Europe’s freshwater resources.
We provide ongoing technical and legal support to the European Commission to help to ensure sound implementation and enforcement of EU water legislation, including the Water Framework Directive and its daughter directives, as well as the Floods Directive. This project also supports the Commission’s work on the development and implementation of the European Water Resilience Strategy.
We provide technical input and legal analysis in response to ad hoc requests, including support in the follow-up to the assessment of the 3rd River Basin Management Plans and 2nd Flood Risk Management Plans. We carry out compliance-related assessments, literature reviews and scientific and technical analyses to inform policy development and provide guidance in the context of complaints, EU Pilot and infringement-related processes.
We supported the European Commission’s assessment of Member States’ implementation of the Floods Directive. The work focused on the second cycle of Flood Hazard and Risk Maps and Flood Risk Management Plans, providing both compliance-related analysis and a broader assessment of progress in flood risk management across the EU. The project contributed to evaluating how Member States are identifying, managing and reducing flood risks, and provided structured input to support the Commission’s understanding of implementation trends and challenges at EU level.
We supported the European Commission in the evaluation and impact assessment of the Bathing Water Directive, in line with the Commission’s obligation to review the directive and assess whether revisions may be needed. The study provided evidence-based analysis on the effectiveness of the directive, including a review of the parameters used to assess bathing water quality and consideration of potential updates to classifications and standards.
The work contributed to informing future policy development and possible legislative follow-up.
Natural Ressources
Biodiversity underpins healthy ecosystems, climate resilience, food security and human well-being. Protecting and restoring nature is central to Europe’s environmental transition and requires coherent, evidence-based action across policy areas, sectors and levels of governance.
We support public authorities and EU institutions in the design, implementation and evaluation of biodiversity, nature conservation and natural resources policy. Our work covers a broad EU framework, including the Birds and Habitats Directives, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Nature Restoration Regulation, the EU Forest Strategy for 2030, the EU pledge to plant three billion additional trees, protected areas under the MSFD, the Water Framework Directive, and the Bathing Water Directive. We provide legal and policy analysis, compliance assessments, evaluations, implementation studies, stakeholder consultations, evidence reviews and practical support to help clients to close gaps, meet legal obligations, assess how EU rules operate in practice and identify options for stronger protection of nature and ecosystems.
We led a consortium supporting the Commission’s Fitness Check of the EU Nature Directives, assessing their relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, coherence and EU added value through extensive evidence-base with targeted questionnaires and in-depth meetings in 10 Member States and one of the largest EU stakeholder consultations.
Read the study here.
We led the development of an EU-wide study, including national research and comparative analysis, which identified the low level of information and integration of species protection rules under the Nature Directives into agriculture and forestry policies.
Read the study here.
We successfully supported the European Commission in the implementation of the EU commitment to plant three billion additional trees by 2030, in line with biodiversity and climate objectives and the principle of planting the right tree in the right place for the right purpose. The project included stakeholder and initiative mapping, engagement activities, events, funding guidance and analysis of practical and legal challenges. Building on the quality and relevance of this work, we were awarded a follow-up project with a stronger focus on communication, outreach and campaign activities, including support for the Award Scheme to be launched by the Commission from 2027.
Read about the project here.
We lead the consortium providing analysis on several strands of the new EU Forest Strategy for 2030, including sustainable forest management (SFM) criteria and indicators used in Member States, certification schemes, value chain(s) linked to clear-cutting, analysis of the mapping and protection of primary and old-growth forest in EU regions, as well as a comparative analysis of the legal framework and requirements applicable to Forest Management Plans.
Read about the project here.