It’s time to act! It’s time to thrive! : The Solar Impulse Foundation calls for a paradigm shift to modernise Europe

A new manifesto calling for an efficient EU and providing pathways to harness the multiple benefits of climate action

Brussels, Belgium. February 21st 2023 – As the EU is grappling with numerous challenges and stands on the eve of a leadership renewal, the Solar Impulse Foundation launches “Europe 3.0: Modernise to Thrive!”, a Manifesto calling for a paradigm shift to modernise Europe and harness the potential of the Green Deal. This fresh publication envisions a modern Europe founded on principles of efficiency and optimal resource utilisation, one that fosters unity and inclusivity among its people. It delineates actionable strategies necessary to realise this vision, serving as a bold rallying cry for concerted action.

Climate action, traditionally presented and perceived as a costly, sacrificial process, appears today as an unexpected rescuer amid the array of economic, political, and social challenges confronting the EU. The manifesto presents a vision and a method for Europe to become  a pioneer continent of a new, qualitative economy based on efficiency 

It presents the upcoming EU leadership with actionable steps that can be undertaken, today, to usher Europe in a new era of environmental responsibility, economic opportunities, and societal cohesion.

The Manifesto, counting with the contribution of more than 40 stakeholders, is grounded in the steadfast belief that an efficient and resolute implementation of the Green Deal can and will come with multiple collateral benefits, and can therefore embody a shared interest spanning political factions, business sectors, and societies at large.  

“To make the transition a reality we need to bring aboard those who believe they will suffer from it. Because they won’t! The fight against climate change should not be taken hostage by political turmoils and fights. On the contrary, it should be a fight that unites nations and 

people ; because saving resources, and therefore money, is common sense; because today in 2024, one can achieve competitiveness, sovereignty and social welfare through environmental action,” says president of the Solar Impulse Foundation, Bertrand Piccard.

By prioritising efficiency and circularity, the Manifesto charts a course toward a qualitative economy where industrial competitiveness, social welfare and environmental sustainability mutually reinforce each other.

To ensure a competitive, secure, and resilient Europe, the Manifesto advocates for a massive EU-wide investment plan, making investment the next chapter of the Green Deal. Recognizing the need to prioritise inclusivity, the initiative calls for placing the human dimension at the centre of policy-making. Financial support and investments should be directed towards the most vulnerable regions and households, with a focus on building skills for a modern economy and creating purposeful jobs.

Further showing concrete examples, the Manifesto provides 27 solutions- one per EU member State- as a proof that solutions exist everywhere and in each sector that needs to decarbonise. All of these and 1573 more solutions are available on the Solutions Explorer, the Solar Impulse Foundation open database of labelled innovations.

During the Manifesto launch in Brussels on 21 February, Bertrand Piccard will also  present his latest flagship project for climate action, Climate Impulse, the first zero emissions, non-stop flight around the world in a hydrogen plane. Building on the symbolic legacy of the Solar Impulse adventure, Climate Impulse serves as a demonstration that sustainable and efficient solutions can be effectively applied today. It also illustrates that climate action needs inspiring symbols. 

"In a world overshadowed by eco-anxiety, it is imperative to rekindle hope and inspire action by showcasing transformative solutions that drive sustainable advancement. Beyond circumnavigating the globe in a hydrogen-powered aircraft, Climate Impulse aims to pioneer fresh perspectives and behaviours that enhance the quality of life," explains Bertrand Piccard. "Efficient solutions will bring together individuals, from citizens and environmental activists to political and business leaders, reshaping the discourse from one of sacrifice and fear to enthusiasm and proactive engagement."

The event  features keynotes and panel discussions by the Executive Vice-President of EU Commission Maroš Šefčovič, Belgian Energy Minister Tinne Van Der Straeten, MEP Nils Fuglsang, Syensqo CEO Ilham Khadri and activist Chloé Mikolajczak.

“The change being brought by the green transition is unprecedented. And we will need innovative clean technologies to reach climate neutrality by 2050. It is not dissimilar to flying a solar aircraft. We need breakthroughs, supported by a predictable and simplified regulatory environment, speedy and efficient access to finance, the right skills for quality jobs, and an international level playing field. I have no doubt that Europe has what it takes to be a continent with a globally competitive and sustainable economy, stable high-quality jobs, and high resilience against future crises,” says  Executive Vice-President of EU Commission Maroš Šefčovič.

Europe 3.0 - Modernise to Thrive! aims to represent a decisive step towards a society where efficiency reigns, remaining needs are met sustainably, and the economy thrives by consuming better, not more. The EU stands poised to lead the charge in redefining the global narrative on environmental responsibility and economic progress.

It’s time to act! It’s time to thrive!