The use of resources and raw materials is of paramount importance for the competitiveness and the technological leadership of the EU. This is the gist of a European Parliament Resolution on the 'Roadmap to a resource-efficient Europe' adopted today. "We need a change of attitude in a Europe where raw materials are scarce. We need that change quickly. This is not green dreaming, but a sheer necessity", said Karl-Heinz Florenz MEP who is in charge of the dossier for the EPP Group in the European Parliament.

The use of resources is going to be subject to indicators that are comparable. "We need to be able to measure progress. And then we can set realistic targets. It is also right to better exploit what we think is waste as it contains a lot of valuable raw materials", said Mr Florenz.

MEPs are calling for an integrated environment label to replace the various existing ones. "We must put an end to the confusing mix of single labels. The new integrated label ought to be based on the indicators and include a statement on the use or emission of water, CO2, material and soil. This is about creating an awareness for the need to change inefficient habits", said the EPP Group MEP.

Mr Florenz underlined that a more efficient use of resources can only be brought about together with business. "We need to keep an eye on competitiveness. We can only take the required action in collaboration with the enterprises and not against them."

For further information:

Karl-Heinz FLORENZ  MEP, Tel: +33-3-88-177320

Thomas Bickl, EPP Group Press and Communications Service, Tel: +32-478-215372

Notes to Editors:

The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 271 Members and 3 Croatian Observer Members.