Emmanuel Macron’s call for a “European regulatory pause” on environmental standards has caused a stir within his own party and among environmentalists. Critics suggest that Macron’s statement could be interpreted as an indication that France might consider aligning with the demands for moratoriums by the European centre-right group, the PPE. The PPE is requesting a “moratorium” on certain legislative projects related to pesticides and natural restoration, arguing that the impact would be too great for farmers, while also posing threats to food security. Other laws under negotiation relate to packaging, and air and water pollution from farming but Renew (liberals), the group to which the Macronistas belong, is determined to find compromises to finalize these texts before the next European elections in 2024. Macron’s statement referred specifically to the adoption of the “Green Pact”, noting that there should be no further changes in regulations put in place to reduce environmental pollution. However, environmental activists in France are concerned that the statement signals a pause in environmental reforms at a time when they are more essential than ever for the fight against climate change. The move leaves the environmental agenda potentially at risk of being subsumed to the needs of the economy, and particularly the needs of French industry. Critics of Macron have suggested that his use of the term “pause” is disturbing, with its suggestion of a hold on environmental regulations, a suggestion he has since denied. The European Union’s reputation as a standard-bearer for environmental rights could be jeopardized if regulatory reform in this area is stalled. Moreover, populist rhetoric against ecology and sustainability remains popular across the world, putting pressure on Europe to maintain the most stringent regulations to avoid accusations of hypocrisy. Environmentalists have therefore called on Macron to clarify his position on the environment and assure the French and European public that reforms will continue despite the current crisis.
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