EU to support environmental governance in Tunisia

The EU has approved a project providing financial assistance to Tunisia which will support the efforts of the Tunisian authorities in the field of environmental governance. The aim is to improve knowledge on the region’s pollution and to contribute to better management from industrial discharges involving all stakeholders.

The plan’s €5m complements other initiatives already funded by the European Commission to reduce pollution from industrial activity in the region. It is part of efforts being undertaken in partnership with countries bordering the Mediterranean within Horizon 2020 to reduce pollution sources in the Mediterranean Sea.

The political transition in Tunisia highlighted the importance of involving civil society in public policy. The actions proposed by this project are specifically designed to promote the participation of local actors and to improve the consultation process.

The scheme is structured around research actions on industrial pollution in Gabès on the southern coast of Tunisia. Also included is the upgrading of industrial establishments in the region for thematic management and environmental governance; close involvement of local actors; and support for environmental actions for local development.

The main activities include analysis of the information collected to improve the state of the natural environment and reduce the causes of pollution and possible health problems. Training workshops to introduce the concept of corporate social responsibility, in addition to environmental awareness actions, will see the participation of public, private, and civil society.