EU and US identify joint research initiatives to combat climate change

Brussels, 14 Feb 2003

Following the conclusion of the first bilateral 'US-EU joint meeting on climate change science and technology research', the two sides have announced plans to initiate collaborative projects in six areas of climate research.

The joint meeting took place in Washington from 5 to 6 February, following an invitation from Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky to European Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin.

The delegations identified suitable cooperative research activities in the following areas: carbon cycle research, aerosol-climate interactions, feedbacks and climate sensitivity, integrated observation systems and data, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen technology and infrastructure.

Within these areas, specific initiatives will include studies on the influence of aerosols on clouds, climate and the water cycle in sensitive regions such as the Mediterranean, and the joint development of integrated observation systems to provide the data needed for climate change research.

Other non-greenhouse gas emitting energy sources, for example nuclear and renewable energies, although not discussed in detail, were mentioned as worthy for cooperation in future discussions.

Both the US and the EU agreed to designate points of contact to coordinate the development of the projects, and to monitor progress once activities are underway.

The two sides also agreed to review the progress of their cooperation at the next joint meeting, which could take place in Italy later this year.
For further information, please consult the following web address:
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2003/17 493.htm

CORDIS RTD-NEWS / © European Communities