Assistant lawyer Nikola Cīparsone compiled the material.
ESG
Council gives final green light to strengthen standards in the EU – air quality
Adopted: 14 October 2024
The Council has formally adopted a directive setting updated air quality standards across the EU. These new rules are expected to contribute to the EU’s objective on zero pollution by 2050 and are meant to help prevent premature deaths due to air pollution. EU citizens will be able to seek compensation for damage to their health in cases where EU air quality rules are not respected.
See also: Press release
Start-up & TMT
Commission joins forces with venture capital to support deep tech innovation in Europe
Launched: 21 October 2024
The Commission has introduced the Trusted Investors Network, a group of investors committed to co-investing with the EU in innovative deep-tech companies across Europe. The EU’s investment will be sourced from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund, part of the Horizon Europe research and innovation program.
This first group includes 71 investors from all over Europe, such as venture capital funds, public investment banks, foundations, and corporate venture funds. Collectively managing assets exceeding €90 billion, the network is positioned as a crucial effort to mobilize capital for Europe’s deep-tech sector.
Cybersecurity
New rules to enhance cybersecurity of EU’s critical entities and networks
Adopted: 17 October 2024
The Commission has adopted the first implementing rules under the NIS2 Directive to strengthen cybersecurity for critical EU entities and networks. These rules outline risk management measures and specify when incidents must be reported to national authorities, marking a key step in enhancing the resilience of Europe’s critical digital infrastructure.
See also: Press release
