Environmental diplomacy in G7/G20 – Strengthening the EU's voice on environmental matters

The European Union seeks to advance the prosperity of its people by promoting growth, jobs, equality, and a safe and healthy environment. Acknowledging that issues such as environmental degradation and resource scarcity are often without borders, the EU is taking steps to engage with key partner countries in shaping global economic and environmental rules. The G7 and especially the G20 are two multilateral and authoritative fora well-suited for this environmental diplomacy. As such, the EU aims to strengthen its contribution to G7 and G20 relevant initiatives in the field of the environment with the double aim to support EU endeavours in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), both domestically and globally.

adelphi and partners have been contracted by the European Commission to strengthen the EU's position on environmental matters in G7/G20 multilateral fora. The consortium used its long-standing expertise to support the EU in systematically assessing relevant ongoing G7/G20 processes and in contributing to these processes through information dissemination and dialogue. Focus topics included sustainable finance, resource efficiency, circular economy, marine litter and plastics. The project was implemented by adelphi together with GIZ International Services, Institute for European Environmental Policy and an independent expert.

adelphi provided key expertise on green finance and resource efficiency. We gathered knowledge on G7/G20 initiatives in these fields, mapped existing activities by EU Member States and highlighted areas of common interest. We identified opportunities for diplomatic efforts. Moreover, we supported the EU in organizing or engaging in strategically relevant events and implemented a communication strategy around key topics.