EC president: Europe must "decarbonise" transport and grid

José Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission (EC), has laid out his mandate for his next term, which includes focusing on improving the sustainability of the electricity supply and the transport sector.

In a statement this week, Barroso, who is running for re-election as president for a second term, has said that if he is successful, climate change will be an integral part of his next five years as head of the EC.

"The next commission needs to maintain the momentum towards a low-emission economy, and in particular towards decarbonising our electricity supply and the transport sector – all transport, including maritime transport and aviation, as well as the development of clean and electric cars," Barroso said in a document outlining his aims for his next term.

However, the EC president has added that any progress on the environment will also have ramifications for European jobs and economies.

"The economic and financial crisis and the scientific evidence of climate change have shown us that we need to invest more in sustainability," he said.

"But this is not just about doing the right thing for the future of the planet – Europe stands to benefit enormously from investing in new, low-carbon technologies for future jobs and growth."

Despite his apparent determination to tackle climate change, Barroso has not always had the best reputation when it comes to environmental issues. In March 2007, he was forced to defend his decision to buy a heavily polluting family car, according to BBC reports.

Barroso added that Europe should move quickly to capitalise on its lead in some environmental sectors.

"First-mover advantages can be gained by exploiting the potential of EU environmentally friendly industries, services and technology through fostering their uptake by enterprises, especially SMEs, and designing the appropriate regulatory environment," he said.

"An industrial base that is modernised to use and produce environmentally friendly technologies and which exploits the potential for energy efficiency is the key to sustainable growth in Europe."

Barroso was nominated for another five-year mandate by the European Council following the elections of the European Parliament from 4 to 7 June this year. The next stage in the process is a vote in the European Parliament on 16 September.