According to the plans of the European Commission, the package of measures taken to overcome the coronavirus crisis should be based on a New Green Deal. At the same time, Brussels is betting on an initiative called the “New European Bauhaus”. The aim of the project is to promote such principles and values as quality design, environmental sustainability, barrier-free operation, and investment. Meanwhile, negotiations on a new climate law due to be passed this spring have stalled. Observers are concerned about how the situation is developing.

Don’t miss at least this train

The European Union has a unique chance to catch up on the world stage, “ writes El Pais:

“In the digital race, the 27 EU countries have long been behind the US and China, but in the green race, they may well give others a head start. Eight of the ten most important companies in the field of clean energy are European. Europe must not miss this train! At stake are energy independence, the creation of many jobs, and control over technology of global significance. In addition, leadership in the field of green technologies can help the EU strengthen its image of moral authority, and this is worth a lot. Authority is imperceptible physically, but its significance is extremely great.”

Poland needs a change of course

Poland should switch from coal to renewable energy sources as soon as possible, — Rzeczpospolita insists:

“We are heading for a collision course, but we still have time for rescue maneuvers. If we miss this opportunity, we face an economic catastrophe. Rising energy prices will lead to the ruin of Polish companies and enterprises, which have already suffered from numerous lockdowns. Therefore, the economic recovery plan and the implementation of the New Green Deal in Poland should focus on green technologies. Otherwise, the Polish economy is unlikely to benefit significantly from the funds allocated by the European Union. After all, those who rely on alternative energy sources will receive the most funding.”

Results can only be achieved together

The new Green Deal should cover all EU countries, warns Rzeczpospolita:

“The idea of Ursula von der Leyen should not be limited to a group of selected countries — or a certain ‘elite’. Walter Gropius, the ideologues of the Bauhaus, said that his school should serve people — and be universal. And why this dream is not feasible if someone is deliberately excluded from it. The new Bauhaus should be built jointly by all EU countries. Including Poland, a European country with a viable industry and crafts.”

The course leading to a collision with the United States

EU plans will not strengthen relations with the US, warns The Spectator:

“President Joe Biden’s program idea is to promote green energy, focused on the production of renewable and clean electricity. … The EU has almost the same agenda: most of the fund for economic recovery from the consequences of the corona crisis in the amount of 750 billion euros is planned to be directed to this area. However, there cannot be two global leaders in the field of green energy! Competition for leadership in this area is likely to further alienate the parties from each other.”