A great honor and responsibility is the election of Kostas Bakoyannis as Chairman of the Committee on Environment, Climate Change and Energy (ENVE) of the European Commission of the Regions.

Costas Bakoyannis, who succeeds the Mayor of Warsaw and candidate for Polish President Rafał Trzaskowski, from this new position, will contribute to the formation and promotion of green transition policies, sustainable development and the resilience of European cities and regions.

The Environment Committee plays a decisive role In shaping the European strategy for climate change, biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable energy.

At a time when Europe faces parallel challenges – from environmental crises to the need to shield security and safeguard socio -economic stability – the Committee of the Regions is called upon to strengthen the voice of local and regional authorities in decision -making.

In a statement, Costas Bakoyannis stressed:

“The challenge of the coming years is not only to achieve Europe’s green goals, but to link environmental policy to economic growth, social cohesion and security of citizens. The crises we are experiencing create opportunities to build cities and regions that are at the same time viable, durable and prosperous. The Committee of the Regions has already gained significant ground in the international debate. Now, it is time to move forward even more dynamically and to ensure that local, municipal and regional authorities have a substantial influence on the decisions that shape the future of Europe. “

During his term, which has been two and a half years, Kostas Bakoyannis will work to create stronger partnerships between European institutions, local and regional authorities and citizens, to promote innovative solutions for the environmental and energy challenges of the time.