image: ©iiievgeniy | iStockThe European Commission has launched a new call for organisations to join the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform
Applications are open until 5 May 2026, with selected members set to play a key role in shaping Europe’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
New focus after mid-term review
The call to join the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform follows the Commission’s mid-term review of the Zero Pollution Action Plan, which assessed progress since its launch in 2021.
While the review shows that there have been important achievements, it also makes clear that faster, more coordinated action is needed to meet the EU’s zero-pollution goals.
To respond to this, the Commission is relaunching the platform to strengthen collaboration and bring in new expertise. The Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform aims to address ongoing barriers that slow environmental progress across member states.
Role of the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform
The Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform is a collaborative space where organisations can share knowledge, exchange best practices, and develop solutions to reduce pollution. Its work will focus on identifying effective strategies, promoting innovation, and supporting investment in sustainable technologies.
Members will also contribute to improving governance and implementation of policies across key areas such as air quality, water management, soil health, waste reduction, and chemical safety. In addition, the platform will encourage international cooperation, recognising that pollution is a global challenge requiring coordinated action.
Who can apply
The Commission is inviting applications from organisations with demonstrated expertise in a wide range of fields. These include pollution prevention and control, environmental management, waste and chemical reduction, financing and infrastructure, research and innovation, and skills development.
Applicants must represent organisations or public entities, as individual experts are not eligible. The selection process will aim to ensure diversity, taking into account geographical representation, areas of expertise, and gender balance.
Up to 50 members will be appointed for a five-year term. The platform will be chaired by the Directorate-General for Environment, alongside representatives from key EU advisory bodies.
Expectations from those who are selected
Organisations chosen to join the platform will be expected to actively contribute to its work programme, including the development of a three-year strategic plan that will be reviewed annually. Members will attend biannual meetings in Brussels and provide technical advice to support major EU initiatives, such as the Water Resilience Strategy.
The first meeting of the renewed platform is scheduled for the final quarter of 2026.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through email and include a complete set of documents: a cover letter, a Europass CV for the designated representative, and specific classification and selection forms. All materials must be provided in PDF format, and incomplete submissions may not be considered.
Detailed guidance and application forms are available through the official call documentation. Interested organisations are encouraged to apply by 23:59 on 5 May 2026.
The relaunch of the Zero Pollution Stakeholder Platform comes at a critical midpoint on the path to 2030. With environmental challenges intensifying, the Commission is seeking strong partnerships with organisations that can help turn policy into action.