In today's globalized world, regulations are not only a legal means to regulate international economic activities, but also an important tool for countries (or regions) to promote their strategic goals and respond to global challenges on the global stage. Recently, the EU adopted a series of new regulations and sanctions aimed at further limiting the advancement of climate change, maintaining regional security, and promoting the transition to a green economy.
1. Regulations to reduce fluorinated gases and ozone-depleting substances
Two recent environmental regulations passed by the Council of the European Union mark the region's leading position in global environmental legislation. These regulations aim to address the global warming challenge by progressively reducing the use of fluorinated gases such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances.
According to the new regulations, the consumption of HFCs will be gradually reduced to zero by 2050. In particular, the new regulations also prohibit the placing of HFCS-containing products and devices on the market. This includes household refrigerators, chillers, foams and aerosols, among others, where alternatives to F-gases are already available both technically and economically. This regulation imposes higher environmental standards on manufacturers, while also encouraging technological innovation and the development of alternatives.
2. It is forbidden to "greenwash" advertisements and labels of goods
The adoption of the European Parliament's directive on Empowering Consumers for a Green Transition is a further demonstration of the EU's commitment to combating environmentally misleading practices. The decree explicitly prohibits so-called "greenwashing", which is misleading claims about the environmental impact of a product or service through carbon offsets.
Under the Act, companies cannot declare that their products or services are "carbon neutral", "net zero", "have a limited carbon footprint" or "have a limited impact on the climate" without being supported by clear, objective and publicly available evidence. In addition, the use of environmentally friendly labels such as "natural", "eco-friendly" and "biodegradable" also needs to be supported by sufficient evidence to protect consumers from being misled.
1. The embargo on Russian aluminum
As part of the 13th round of sanctions against Russia, the European Union decided to embargo Russian aluminum. The decision builds on the 12th round of sanctions approved by the Council of the European Union in December, which further expands the scope of economic sanctions against Russia. The embargo covers Russian aluminium and its products, a move that could have a significant impact on the global aluminium market, given that Russian aluminium accounts for about 6% of the global market.
2. Extend economic sanctions against Russia again
In addition to the embargo on Russian aluminum, the EU has decided to extend economic sanctions against Russia for another 6 months, until July 31, 2024. Since July 2014, the economic sanctions imposed by the European Union on Russia have become the norm and are reviewed every six months. These sanctions cover a wide range of sectors, including finance, energy, and luxury goods, and are designed to respond to Russia's behavior in the international arena.
3. Expand sanctions against Syria
While imposing sanctions against Russia, the EU has not eased economic pressure on Syria. In the latest round of sanctions, the EU added the economic adviser to the Syrian leader and five other entities to the sanctions list. These measures include the freezing of assets and the prohibition of the direct or indirect provision of funds or economic resources to the targets of sanctions. Since 2011, EU sanctions on Syria have been aimed at responding to the country's internal conflict and human rights issues.
In the future, with the implementation of these regulations, it is expected to promote technological innovation and the development of environmentally friendly products, while also having a profound impact on the international** and political landscape. For global businesses, adapting to these changes and complying with new laws and regulations will be key to future success.