Glass for Europe Board Directors discuss the EU’s lack of competitiveness and circularity at first 2025 meeting

The Board meeting provided an opportunity to address growing concerns regarding the dire situation of the flat glass and glazing industry. The sector is grappling with declining demand, stalled investment, and shrinking European capacity, with several plant closures since the start of the year. Directors discussed the recently published Clean Industrial Deal and the Action Plan for Affordable Energy, both aimed at restoring the EU’s competitiveness and addressing Europe’s significantly higher gas prices compared to global competitors. Additionally, Davide Cappellino, Chair of Glass for Europe, shared his insights from the Clean Industrial Deal Summit in Antwerp, where he participated in discussions on the industry’s future.

Board Directors also had an exchange of views with Luis Planas Herrera, responsible for the circular economy in the cabinet of European Commission Executive Vice-President Jessika Roswall. Recycling is the most beneficial end-of-life option for flat glass and glazing as it contributes to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions from glass manufacturing. The flat glass industry is therefore advocating for ambitious measures as part of the upcoming Circular Economy Act. Glass for Europe has shared its eagerness to contribute to this key text for the glass industry.

In addition, Board Directors took stock of other key initiatives for the sector such as the review of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and the EU ETS. Both will require substantial attention from the Secretariat in the coming months.