Jean-Marc Meunier, CEO of AGC Glass Europe, underscores the critical role of an Industrial Deal in realizing the commitments outlined in the EU Green Deal, emphasizing the need for enabling conditions to drive innovation and investment in the flat glass sector.
The EU Industry Summit held in Antwerp on February 20 witnessed fervent discussions on the imperative for a new industrial policy, an #Industrial Deal, to bolster Europe’s industrial competitiveness and align with the ambitions of the EU Green Deal. The flat glass sector, well represented by Jean-Marc Meunier, CEO of AGC Glass Europe, and Bertrand Cazes, Secretary General of Glass for Europe and Glass Alliance Europe, emphasized the pivotal role of glass in achieving a climate-neutral future. Meunier outlined the industry’s commitment to reinventing glass production but emphasized that true progress depends on Europe fostering enabling conditions for innovation, growth, and investment.
During his intervention, Meunier highlighted the transformative potential of glass, recognized as the “hidden gem of a climate-neutral future” by Nature magazine. He underscored the role of flat glass in enhancing the energy efficiency and sustainability of cars and buildings, contributing to digitalization and circularity. However, he cautioned that these advancements could only materialize with supportive conditions for innovation and investment. Meunier flagged two critical issues that need addressing in a new industrial policy: the necessity for greater access to affordable low-carbon energy sources, requiring substantial investments in energy infrastructures across Europe, and the need to stimulate demand for European-made low-carbon and circular products like glass.
The ‘Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal’ was unveiled during the event and presented to officials, garnering signatures from 73 industry leaders and organizations. The declaration outlines ten strategic directions for the EU to restore industrial competitiveness, aligning with climate-neutrality, sustainability, resiliency, and strategic autonomy goals. Signatories include Jean-Marc Meunier for AGC Glass Europe and Bertrand Cazes on behalf of Glass Alliance Europe. The glass industry, positioned as crucial for achieving a circular and climate-neutral Europe, advocates for an Industrial Deal to transform the EU Green Deal into opportunities for European industries.
Bertrand Cazes commented on the event, stating, “The glass industry is pivotal to achieving a circular and climate-neutral Europe, so we need an Industrial Deal to transform the EU Green Deal into opportunities for Europe’s industry.”
As the elections to the European Parliament approach in June, Glass for Europe will continue advocating for a new industrial policy, disseminating its policy manifesto aimed at enabling sustainable transformation.
Source: Glass for Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan