17.05.2011 News: European Parliament Ceramics Forum debate on “Ceramic Solutions for resource efficiency”

Dear Sir or Madam,

We would like to invite you to the European Parliament Ceramics Forum debate on “Ceramic Solutions for resource efficiency” which will be held at the European Parliament (Alterio Spinelli building, ASP A1G2), Brussels, on

Thursday 26 May 2011, between 13:00 and 15:00

welcome lunch starts at 12:30;

interpretation available in English, French and German

2011 is the year of resource efficiency. Already in January, the European Commission (EC) published its flagship initiative “Resource efficient Europe” and the EC Roadmap on resource efficiency is expected by mid-2011.   

As you know, the ceramic sector covers many sub-sectors ranging from the more traditional (bricks, tableware, sanitary ware, clay pipes, wall, floor and roof tiles) to the more high-tech (abrasives, refractory and technical ceramics). Resource efficiency plays a key role in each of these sectors during all stages of the life-cycle and ceramic products provide the solutions needed to achieve a resource efficient society.

So how exactly do ceramic products contribute to resource efficiency? What is the importance of an integrated life-cycle approach? What can we expect from the Commission’s resource efficiency roadmap? These and many more questions will be debated between the different European institutions together with all interested stakeholders.

We are expecting a high number of members of the European Parliament, notably from constituencies with a ceramic industry and those active in the above mentioned field, as well as European Commission officials, representatives from Member States, trade unions, research centres, environment NGOs and the ceramic industry together with colleagues from other manufacturing industries. We hope very much that you will be able to attend and contribute to the discussions.

Attached you will find the programme and participation form, for reply by 20 May.

Further information can also be found on the new EP Ceramics Forum website: www.epceramicsforum.eu

We look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely yours,

Malcolm Harbour MEP                                                   Michael Cashman MEP         

President in Office                                                           Co-President