EU Missions exceed goals for climate resilience and city sustainability
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The European Commission launched five EU Missions in 2021 as part of the Horizon Europe program, and a new assessment shows these initiatives are making substantial progress toward their objectives across Europe.
These Missions aim to apply scientific and technological advancements to real-world problems like climate change, environmental health, and cancer, moving beyond traditional research methods. The Climate Adaptation Mission has already surpassed its 2030 target to help European regions and communities become climate resilient.
As of the assessment, 292 regional and local authorities have implemented measures to adapt to a changing climate, exceeding the initial goal of 150. The Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission is also ahead of schedule, with 107 cities currently committed to achieving climate neutrality and projected to cut emissions by 76% by 2030 with over €13 billion in investment.
The Cancer Mission expects to improve the lives of 2.3 million people by 2030 through improved prevention, detection, treatment, and care, and upcoming projects should push that number beyond its initial target of 3 million. The Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission has delivered 121 innovative solutions tested across 349 sites, while also completing the design of the European Digital Twin Ocean, set to be fully operational by 2030.
Finally, the A Soil Deal for Europe Mission has established 45 Living Labs, with plans to add 60 to 70 more by 2028, involving over 500 farms across the continent.
