EU Commission presents package to simplify environmental legislation

The changes will contribute to reducing the administrative burden for businesses, while keeping the European Union’s (EU) ambitious objectives to protect the environment and human health.

It will accelerate and streamline permitting processes for all projects, in particular in strategic sectors like digital and critical raw materials projects and affordable housing, facilitating the transition to a clean and digital economy in the bloc, an official release said.

With this proposal, businesses are expected to save approximately €1 billion ($1.17 billion) every year, bringing the annual administrative savings stemming from the omnibuses and other simplification initiatives the Commission has already presented to almost €11 billion ($12.88 billion) per year.

It thus brings the bloc closer to the overall target of €37.5 billion in annual administrative cost savings by the end of the Commission's mandate in 2029.

This initiative is part of a broader effort aligned with the EU's Competitiveness Compass. It will contribute to cutting red tape and support the EU's competitiveness and resilience, while fostering green growth. 

The simplification package is composed of six legislative proposals. The simplifications proposed include targeted legislative changes, and reflect the contributions from stakeholders following a call for evidence announced on July 22, 2025. The call gathered more than 190,000 responses.

Key elements of the proposal include streamlined environmental assessments for granting permits; simplified and accelerated procedures for project developers; a toolbox with additional accelerating measures for strategic sectors and projects that contribute to decarbonisation or resource efficiency; simplified industrial emissions standards for the industry and farmers; more effective digital solutions for hazardous substances in products; and simplified extended producer responsibility.

The Commission is committed to continuing to exploit the full potential for simplification, stress testing EU legislation and working on effective implementation. The simplification process will continue throughout the next years, focusing on stress-testing, guidance and improving existing legislation, the release added.

The package will now be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council for adoption.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)