In conversation with Ilan De Basso

Looking ahead to the next five years, what overarching strategies do you believe Europe should prioritise to enhance its industrial base and accelerate progress towards a prosperous net-zero future?  

It is important that the EU takes action. If not, we will be outrun by other continents. Europe has always been a front-runner in developing new and innovative technology; we must continue to do this and not lock ourselves into using outdated technology. 

To reach our common climate goals, we need to speed up the green transition for industry. The Net-Zero Industry Act is an important piece of the puzzle. 

How can Europe maintain its businesses' competitive edge on the global stage while championing environmental sustainability? 

In order to be a credible and global leader in sustainability, we need keep up trade agreements with reliable partners in third countries and ensure that the operations are in line with the EU’s common values on sustainable development.  

It is key that we continue to support research and innovation. The EU can provide excellence in many fields. We also need to regulate the internal market and strengthen social partners to achieve decent working conditions for everyone. 

In what specific ways do you think European technology industries can contribute to leading the clean tech revolution and fostering a resilient, competitive, and decarbonised European industrial base? 

The EU has a lot to offer the industry and is an attractive provider of good working conditions and strong resources. The technological progress can be made to benefit society as a whole. This includes both products and incentives that benefit citizens and workers, which strengthens our industry without unnecessary costs to transition into more environmentally sustainable production.  

Considering Orgalim's agenda for a robust European high-tech manufacturing base aimed at forging a green, prosperous, and resilient future, what are your thoughts on these priorities? 

The EU has been and must continue to be a leader in sustainable and green technology. It is a matter of keeping jobs and skills in Europe; it is a matter of remaining a globally competitive continent.  

There is no future if we cannot make the green transition in time to reverse our negative impact on the climate. We have to increase our energy independency and invest in ensuring renewable energy is available at lower prices. It is crucial that the EU and its Member States take responsibility by prioritising the fostering of new technologies, reducing skills shortages, and promote skills transitioning. 

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All views and opinions expressed are Mr De Basso’s own and do not necessarily reflect Orgalim’s position. More information on our approach and views can be found in Orgalim’s policy agenda, which focuses on how to deliver the net-zero transformation. 

Mr De Basso will be joining us at our reception ‘Building a resilient high-tech Europe’ on 16 April for a discussion on the dynamics of the new EU legislative term, focusing on building a competitive and resilient high-tech manufacturing base in Europe.