As part of the ongoing efforts to develop the actions required to achieve climate-related objectives, the CPCC, EUMS and MPCC, with the support of the EEAS, co-organised the first ever Joint Seminar for Environmental Advisors and Focal Points in CSDP Missions and operations.

Held in Brussels from 13 to 15 of December, the event offered a unique opportunity for civilian and military CSDP Mission and Operations Environmental Advisers and Focal Points to receive an update on the latest policy developments from EU institutions, including work undertaken at EEAS HQ level on the environmental management system.

Through interactive activities and exercises, the meeting facilitated an exchange of best practices, challenges and lessons learned from the experts on the ground. Furthermore, the seminar represented an important milestone in defining common environmental assessments and reporting procedures that focused the work towards the defined objectives.

The seminar counted on the priceless support of the Austrian Permanent Delegation, the Austrian Centre for Peace, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, UNODC, EUROPOL, the Institute of Common Wealth Studies and the EU Satellite Centre. The presentations provided enabled the participants to have a better understanding of the work undertaken by these organisations in the field of environmental protection, energy management and environmental crime.

The overall assessment of the event was very successful. Based on the outcomes of this edition and the feedback of the participants, work will commence shortly to prepare for the groups next meeting in 2024.