The EU Council has published a revised work programme for the Environment Council configuration for January 2026, outlining legislative and strategic priorities including CO2 standards for cars and vans, heavy-duty vehicle regulations, and the Market Stability Reserve for ETS2, alongside discussions on an Open Climate Coalition and the EU Bioeconomy Strategy.
The document, dated 1 July 2026, is an information note from the Council's General Secretariat. It sets the agenda for the Environment Council, which brings together environment ministers from EU member states. The programme is non-binding but guides the Council's work for the month.
Key legislative items
The work programme prioritises the CO2 standards for cars and vans Regulation, which sets emission reduction targets for new vehicles. The Heavy-Duty Vehicles Regulation, covering trucks and buses, is also scheduled. Additionally, the Market Stability Reserve for ETS2, a mechanism to manage the supply of allowances in the new emissions trading system for buildings and transport, will be discussed. These files are at different stages: some may be up for adoption, while others are for progress reports or policy debates.
Strategic discussions
The Presidency will present notes on an Open Climate Coalition, likely a group of member states pushing for higher climate ambition, and on the Integrity of climate information, addressing greenwashing and data reliability. The Council is also expected to adopt conclusions on the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, promoting sustainable use of biological resources.
Broader topics
The programme covers circular economy initiatives, biodiversity protection, and international chemicals policy, reflecting the Council's ongoing work on the European Green Deal.
Impact on stakeholders
- EU regulatory bodies: The Council's agenda sets priorities for the European Commission and Parliament, influencing legislative timelines.
- National authorities: Member states will need to align their positions on CO2 standards and ETS2, balancing climate goals with economic impacts.
- Automotive and heavy-duty vehicle industries: Stricter CO2 standards could increase compliance costs but drive innovation in zero-emission technologies.
- Environmental NGOs: The focus on climate integrity and bioeconomy may be welcomed, but they may push for stronger targets.
Institutional follow-up
The work programme will guide the Environment Council's meetings in January 2026. Outcomes will feed into trilogue negotiations with the European Parliament and inform the Commission's legislative proposals. The next step is the Council's adoption of positions on the listed files.