Conclusions of the Environment Council meeting of Monday 27 October 2003 in Luxemburg.
The Council adopted positions on
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
The Council reached agreement on a political compromise text from the Presidency for a Draft Directive to reduce emissions of VOCs from organic solvents in certain paints, varnishes and vehicle refinishing products. Greece abstained. These compounds are linked to harmful ground-level ozone. The Directive sets maximum limits on organic solvents in paints and varnishes from 2007 and additional restrictions for some products will come into force in 2010. The Directive will now go to the European Parliament for a second reading.
Conclusions were adopted on the Commission’s Communication from June 2003 on Integrated Product Policy (IPP). The Council identified the need to strengthen Green Public Procurement and to improve environmental information for consumers.
Addressed the Community’s Environment and Health Strategy by highlighting the need to link to the existing priorities of the 6th Framework Research Programme, the Public Health Progamme and the 6the Environmental Action Programme. Furthermore the Council noted the importance of socio-economic determinants , environmental tobacco smoke and noise. Specifically the Council called upon the Commission and Member States to involve stakeholders, citizens and NGOs in developing and implementing EU’s Environment and Health Strategy.
