This year's meeting of the German-Czech Environment Commission in Plzen in the Czech Republic focussed on preparing the Czech EU Presidency during the first six months of 2009 and on climate protection issues. Both sides agreed on measures to mitigate odour emissions in the Erz mountains.
The Environment Commission confirmed that the EU's climate and energy package should be concluded this year. Both countries will actively support the current French Presidency in its endeavours. This will be an important step towards both European integration and an ecological industrial policy.
The preparations for the upcoming Czech EU Presidency during the first six month of 2009 are well on the way. Environmental issues are being closely coordinated. Pointing to the importance of the Czech Republic's first Presidency, Michael Müller, Parliamentary State Secretary at the German Environment Ministry, said: "I am convinced that the Czech EU Presidency will be a huge success."
Michael Müller and his Czech colleague Jan Dusik both acknowledged a close and harmonious cooperation of their countries. There was further progress regarding the sustainable management of border regions: measures taken by each country and coordinated actions have led to a reduction in transboundary pollution. Nature and landscapes are generally being protected jointly by both countries. In order to further mitigate odour emissions, which occur in particular during winter time, plant operators will be required to no longer carry out odour producing operations during stagnant weather conditions. In addition, a project on analysing weak points is being planned.
Like Germany, the Czech Republic supports an increase in energy efficiency, energy saving measures and an increased use of renewable energies. Currently Germany is providing guidance to Czech authorities regarding amendments to their climate protection legislation. In early 2008 the Czech Republic implemented an ecological tax reform, taking into account German experience.