Janez Potocnik Nominated EU Environment Commissioner

European Commission President José Manuel Barroso has named current research and science Commissioner Janez Potocnik as the future head of the Environment directorate general. In his new position, the 51 year old Slovenian will also oversee the European Environment Agency.

The ICPE welcomes the nomination of Mr Potocnik, who has demonstrated unique interest in this important field. Potocnik would deal with important issues such as the protection of soil, water and air and the preservation of biodiversity, all of which are have an important role to play in ICPE's CC TAP and Green MBA Programs.

Climate policy will be removed from DG Environment’s remit in the future Commission and be set up as a separate directorate general, with Denmark’s energy minister Connie Hedegaard nominated as its Commissioner. Italy’s Antonio Tajani, the current Transport Commissioner, is designated as Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship and Commission Vice President, while the Trade directorate general will be overseen by Belgium’s current foreign minister Karel de Gucht. The new Commission must gain approval from the European Parliament (EP) before it takes office for a term of office running until 31 October 2014. The Commissioners-designate will appear in individual hearings before EP committees from 11-19 January, and the EP plenary vote on the new Commission as a whole is scheduled for 26 January. On the basis of the vote of consent, the Commission will be appointed by the European Council and be able to start working.