Getting in the Right Lane for 2050

Publication review

Starting from a vision for Europe in 2050, this study identifies key policy junctions at which the EU will soon face strategic choices.

This assessment highlights the  substantial potential the EU has through its regulatory powers to establish a  long-term investment framework for essential infrastructure and to act as a global  player.

The vision for 2050 encompasses producing food for a global population of nine  billion while minimising biodiversity loss; mitigating climate change while enhancing  energy security for the EU; and practical and workable solutions for an EU transport  system that is low carbon. Specifically, the vision includes a power grid that would  allow citizens to become electricity producers and would help ensure a dependable  supply of electricity. This study highlights examples of how policy actions in the next five to ten years have to be made in view of long-term goals.

These examples are tabled as a primer for debate on the long-term agenda of the next European Commission and the coming presidencies.