Europe Announces Its Own "Green Deal" to Counter Biden's Climate Plan
European "Green deal" Announced
Script:
The European Union has revealed its own "Green Deal" plan to counteract the Biden administration's massive green subsidy program. The Green Deal Industrial Plan intends to make Europe's net-zero industry more competitive by reducing regulation, accelerating access to finance, upgrading skills, and establishing robust supply chains through new trade agreements. The proposal, which will be discussed by EU leaders next week, will make €250 billion ($272 billion) accessible from existing EU funds for the greening of industry, including tax breaks for businesses investing in net-zero technologies.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the package of measures will ensure a "level playing field" globally and that Europe is dedicated to leading the clean tech revolution. The EU's Green Deal is a response to the US government's Inflation Reduction Act, which will direct $369 billion towards clean energy projects. The EU leaders are concerned that the tax breaks for American companies, which amount to $270 billion, will put European companies at a disadvantage and attract them to the United States.
"plan proposes loosening state aid rule"
In a document outlining its new green industry plan, the European Commission pointed out China's provision of green subsidies, which are twice as high as those in the EU relative to GDP. The EU green plan proposes loosening state aid rules to allow member states to match aid offered by a third country for initial investments into sectors related to the net-zero transition. The plan also includes a European Sovereignty Fund to secure Europe's edge on critical and emerging technologies, such as microelectronics and artificial intelligence, and the Net Zero Industry Act and the Critical Raw Materials Act, aimed at speeding up the issuance of permits for green projects and securing the EU's supply of rare earth minerals essential for net-zero technologies.
Questions:
Part 1: Comprehension
Read and summarize the article thinking of who, what, when, where & why.
Part 2: True or False Questions
a) True or False - The EU Green Deal is aimed at reducing rules for the green industry. T/F
b) True or False - The EU Green Deal will invest $369 billion in clean energy projects. T/F
c) True or False - The EU Green Deal includes the creation of two new acts to help the green industry. T/F
d) True or False - The EU Green Deal was created in response to the Biden administration's green subsidy program. T/F
Part 3a: Guess the meaning of unknown vocabulary/phrases.
a) "Green deal"
b) "Tax breaks"
c) "Level playing field"
d) "Green subsidies"
Part 3b: Vocabulary in Use: Write an example sentence using the words from 3a.
a) Green deal:
b) Tax breaks:
c) Level playing field:
d) Green subsidies:
Part 5: Talking Points
1.What is the European Union's Green Deal about?
2.What is the main aim of the Green Deal?
3.What measures will the Green Deal include to support the green industry?
4.How might the tax breaks for American companies affect European companies?
5.What do you think the EU leaders will discuss about the Green Deal next week?
6.Do you think the Green Deal is a step in the right direction for Europe to become a leader in clean technology and reduce its impact on the environment?
7.What do you do in your life to help the environment?
8.Describe the recycling process in your country.
9.Do you really think ‘going green’ is helping the world?
10. What do you think your government could do to improve the environment in your country?
Part 6: Role play Scenarios
1: Green Deal Negotiators
You and your partner are both negotiators representing the European Union in discussions with the leaders of the EU. Your goal is to persuade them to support the new "Green Deal." Take turns presenting the benefits of the plan and addressing any concerns or objections they might have.
2: Green Business Owners
You and your partner are both owners of green businesses in Europe. You are discussing the EU's new Green Deal and what it could mean for your businesses. Take turns sharing your thoughts and opinions on the plan and discussing how it might impact your companies in the future.
3: Environmental Campaigners
You and your partner are environmental campaigners who are meeting with a government official to discuss the EU's new Green Deal. Your goal is to convince the official that the plan is not enough to protect the environment and that more action is needed. Take turns making your case and listening to the official's responses.
Part 7: Writing Activity
Modal Verbs - Write a short letter to the EU commissioner outlining what you think they should do to create a "greener" future for us all.
Part 8: Critical Thinking
Your city council has proposed that by 2030 only electric cars should be allowed to dive inside a 20 mile radius of the city center. Work in groups and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this proposal. Then come together as a class and reach a consensus on whether you think this proposal should be accepted.
Answers:
Part 1: Comprehension
The article discusses the European Union's announcement of its own "Green Deal" to support the environment and economy. The plan involves reducing regulations, providing tax benefits, and boosting financing and skills in the growing green industry. The EU leaders will discuss the plan next week. The plan is a response to the US' green initiatives, which the EU fears may harm European companies. The EU plan includes a relaxation of state aid rules, new acts, and a fund to secure the EU's supply of rare minerals needed for clean technology. The EU intends to fight against unfair subsidies and market distortions. The article was written to inform the reader about the European Union's announcement of its own "Green Deal" plan to help the environment and the economy. The plan aims to reduce rules, provide tax breaks, and improve financing and skills for the green industry.
Part 2: True or False
A: True B: False C: True D: True
Part 3a: Guess the meaning of unknown vocabulary or phrases.
a) "Green deal" Answer: This is a plan announced by the European Union to help the environment and the economy by reducing rules, providing tax breaks, and improving financing and skills for the green industry.
b) "Tax breaks" Answer: These are a reduction or elimination of taxes for certain individuals or companies, provided in this context as part of the European Union's Green Deal plan.
c) "Level playing field" Answer: In the context of the article, the phrase "level playing field" is used to describe a fair global market for businesses. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, says the Green Deal plan will make sure the global market is fair for everyone, implying that the plan will help create a level playing field for businesses operating in the green industry.
d) "Green subsidies" Answer: This are a type of financial support provided by governments for businesses and industries that focus on producing and promoting environmentally-friendly products and services.
Part 3b: Vocabulary in Use: Write an example sentence using the words from 3a. (examples)
a) Green deal: The government's fresh ideas aim to solve environmental issues by promoting a big green deal that supports clean energy and reduces harmful emissions.
b) Tax breaks: The government is offering tax breaks to help people save money on taxes.
c) Level playing field: In international trade, a level playing field ensures that all countries have equal opportunities and fair conditions to compete.
d) Green subsidies: Green subsidies are financial support given by the government to encourage eco-friendly practices and technologies.
Part 7 Writing: (example)
Dear EU Commissioner,
I want to share my ideas for a "greener" future that benefits everyone. We need to act now to protect our planet. Here are some ways the EU can help: First, we should use more renewable energy like solar and wind power. This will reduce pollution and slow down climate change. Next, we need better public transportation and more electric cars. This will make our air cleaner and reduce traffic. We also need rules to manage waste and use less plastic. Recycling and using eco-friendly materials can make a big difference.Supporting organic farming and local food is important too. It keeps our land healthy and our food better for us.Lastly, we should teach people why being greener matters. Schools and campaigns can help us all make better choices.By doing these things, the EU can make our future greener and better for everyone.
Thank you,
[Talking Points]
