The direction of the EU’s environmental policies in the coming years is taking shape following recent appointments to the European Commission. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has entrusted Teresa Ribera, Wopke Hoekstra, Christoph Hansen, and Jessika Roswall with advancing crucial environmental initiatives, such as the EU Soil Monitoring Law. Their collaboration will be instrumental in making meaningful progress on sustainability goals.
)
Arguably the most critical role in advancing the EU Soil Monitoring Law will be held by Christoph Hansen, Commissioner-designate for Agriculture and Food.
Hansen, from Luxembourg, brings extensive expertise in European environmental policy and trade. Coming from a farming family, he also has a personal connection to agriculture, which, alongside his political experience as a former member of the European Parliament, positions him well to enhance both the competitiveness and sustainability of the EU’s agricultural sector.
Spain’s former Minister for Ecological Transition, Teresa Ribera, is set to play a key role in soil restoration as Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Fair, and Competitive Transition.
Ribera’s portfolio includes overseeing the European Green Deal and ensuring the EU stays on track with its climate goals. Her responsibilities, which span various environmental and climate policies, will also encompass soil health, particularly through biodiversity strategies, carbon sink initiatives, and land-use policies.
Sweden’s Jessika Roswall, nominated as Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and Circular Economy, has previously served as Sweden’s Minister for EU Affairs.
Her involvement in circular economy initiatives will be crucial in managing resources that benefit soil health and sustainability.
Wopke Hoekstra, appointed as Commissioner for Climate, Clean Growth, and Taxes, will play an essential role in creating financial frameworks to support environmental initiatives.
Although his role may be less directly focused on soil health, his work on subsidies and penalties for unsustainable practices will be critical for promoting sustainable land use across the EU.
The European Parliament is currently assessing the Commissioners-delegates via ‘confirming hearings’ which have taken place from 4 to 12 November.
The new College of Commissioners, once confirmed by the European Parliament, is expected to begin work on 1 December.