European industry is facing technological, socio-political and climate change challenges. The transition to climate neutrality is the most urgent challenge of our times and calls for bold and courageous actions for and by industry. Digitalisation is the other key imperative, to remain competitive, creative and ensure Europe’s technological sovereignty. To remain at the forefront of technological and social leadership, it is important to strengthen the connections among our digital and green policy objectives. In September 2018, the European Commission issued a long-term strategy for climate action which calls for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and makes an unprecedented link between the energy and industrial transition. The European Green Deal sets out this European commitment to tackle climate and environmental-related challenges. In addition, the ninth Sustainable Development Goal is to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation. On the one hand, governments in Europe are increasingly committing themselves to clean growth and launching circular economy action plans. On the other hand, the question remains to what extent they take into account the opportunities presented by digital technologies, as well as if and how the impacts of digital policy measures and Industry 4.0 initiatives are assessed against climate goals. In this context, the objective of this analysis has been to revisit the question of how to create responsible digital transformation models by: reviewing some of the most recent national Industry 4.0, digital and circular economy policies and instruments in the EU from an environmental/digital perspective, and bringing examples of policy initiatives where advanced and digital technologies are promoted to deliver solutions to pressing environmental problems and the climate crisis and promote good practices. This study is based on comprehensive desk research and a range of interviews with national policymakers and other relevant stakeholders.

链接地址：http://dx.doi.org/10.2826/29467