Written by Contexte
19 February 2026
Ahead of the simulation on CO₂ standards, Bianca Pinto, Renew coordinator, confirmed her group’s support for the Commission’s proposal while announcing amendments—particularly to clarify the “Made in EU” clause—positioning Renew as a centrist force open to compromise without predefined alliances and advocating a “pragmatic” balance between ambitious climate targets and industrial competitiveness.
Briefing about the interview
Renew states that it is open to dialogue and compromise with other political groups in the European Parliament. No coalition has been agreed at this stage. Discussions have taken place with some members of other groups, but neither the European People’s Party (EPP) nor the Greens have formally presented their positions. As a result, Renew says it cannot comment on their specific orientations.
On substance, the group describes its environmental approach as “pragmatic”. This means maintaining ambitious climate targets while taking into account industrial, economic and social considerations. Decarbonisation is presented as both a climate necessity and an economic issue that must be implemented in what is described as an efficient way.
Regarding the European Commission, Renew expects it to defend a text close to its original proposal, since it is the author of the legislation. The group expresses satisfaction with the proposal and is awaiting its detailed presentation in committee.
Among the amendments under consideration is a clarification of the “Made in EU” clause. According to Renew, the current wording lacks precision. The group wants to avoid a situation in which a product could be labelled “Made in EU” while most of its value chain is located outside the European Union. The stated objective is to reduce ambiguity and prevent possible loopholes.
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The group presents itself as centrist and willing to work with different political forces without exclusivity. No predefined alliance has been established. Renew indicates that its immediate priority is to define internal red lines before entering fully into negotiations.
Overall, the discussion reflects an early phase of the legislative process, focused on defining internal positions and initiating contacts between groups ahead of formal negotiations.