Policy Paper: Seven Priorities for the EU in 2026

The German CEO Alliance for Climate and Economy firmly believes in a Clean and Competitive European Future. In its new policy paper, the Alliance outlines seven key priorities for the European Union to advance climate action and strengthen European competitiveness.

Berlin, 05.05.2026. In the current geopolitical context, Europe must act decisively – with confidence, fierce determination, and a clear commitment to actively charting the way forward. More than ever that means aligning our economy to ecological realities to build resilience to climate change as well as securing Europe’s future economic prosperity. To preserve and strengthen Europe as a strong and innovative business location, companies need reliable, ambitious, and coherent political framework conditions. Political decisions, especially the green transition, must be enshrined, honoured, and promoted so that businesses can make targeted investments for the future to secure their own, and thereby Europe’s economic strength.

With a renewed commitment  to establish itself as a progressive business voice in Europe, the German CEO Alliance for Climate and Economy outlines seven key priorities for the European policymakers:

• Pursuing climate targets in a reliable and predictable manner to provide companies with clarity and investment security
• Providing sustainable energy at competitive prices
• Maintaining a future-proof emissions trading system
• Leveraging public procurment for strong European lead markets
• Easing bureaucratic burdens without punishing innovators
• Securing financing for the transition
• Decarbonizing and diversifying agriculture and food systems