Macron criticizes the EU-Mercosur trade agreement for insufficient climate action

In a recent speech, French President Emmanuel Macron slammed the current EU-Mercosur trade pact negotiations, calling for a deal with robust climate and biodiversity measures.

Sarah Morland reports for Reuters.

In short:

• Macron highlighted the deal's lack of focus on climate change and biodiversity, urging for a renegotiation to include these crucial elements.
• Despite Brazil's readiness to sign, France, citing concerns for its farmers and environmental standards, stands firm on demanding a greener agreement.
• The French president emphasized the need for direct investment and international cooperation in environmental initiatives, particularly with Africa.

Key quote:

“There is nothing that takes into consideration the subject of biodiversity and climate – nothing.”

— Emmanuel Macron, president of France

Why this matters:

There is a growing recognition of the importance of integrating considerations for biodiversity and climate change into trade agreements. This shift aims to ensure that global trade supports, rather than undermines, environmental sustainability and climate goals.

Joe Roman argues that we need to change how we relate to wildlife, putting their health, and our own, before commercial interests.