EU Missions making strong progress towards 2030 goals

The European Union’s five major Missions under Horizon Europe are making steady progress in tackling some of Europe’s most important societal and environmental challenges, according to a new mid-term assessment published by the European Commission

The EU Missions are large-scale initiatives designed to turn scientific research and technological innovation into practical solutions.

These solutions are tested in real-world settings, allowing successful approaches to be developed and introduced more widely across Europe.

The latest assessment shows that all five EU Missions are progressing towards their 2030 objectives, with the Climate Adaptation Mission already surpassing its main target.

Climate adaptation target surpassed

The Climate Adaptation Mission aims to support at least 150 European regions, local authorities and communities in becoming more resilient to climate change.

Progress has already exceeded that goal, with 292 regional and local authorities having implemented climate adaptation measures.

The results show how the Mission is helping communities move from research and planning towards practical action to prepare for climate-related risks.

Cities moving towards climate neutrality

The Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission is also making significant progress. Its target is to support at least 100 cities in achieving climate neutrality while encouraging other cities across Europe to follow their example.

So far, 107 cities have established Climate City Contracts outlining their plans to reduce emissions. These cities are projected to cut emissions by 76% by 2030.

More than €13 billion in investment is already being supported or developed to help deliver these plans, including measures focused on cleaner transport, energy and sustainable urban development.

Cancer Mission moving closer to its target

The Cancer Mission aims to improve the lives of more than three million people by 2030 through prevention, early detection, treatment and care.

Current actions are expected to benefit around 2.3 million people by 2030. However, upcoming projects are expected to increase this figure beyond the three-million target.

The Mission takes a broad approach to cancer, focusing not only on treatment but also on prevention, earlier detection, and improved support for patients and their families.

Protecting oceans and waterways

The Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission is working to improve the health of Europe’s aquatic ecosystems, reduce pollution and create a more sustainable and circular blue economy.

So far, 121 innovative solutions have been tested across 349 real-world demonstration sites. Another 86 regions are working to replicate successful approaches, and stakeholders have committed to more than 1,000 Charter Actions.

The Mission has also completed the design of the core infrastructure for the European Digital Twin Ocean. The system is expected to be fully operational by 2030 and is already accessible.

Improving Europe’s soil health

The A Soil Deal for Europe Mission is progressing towards its target of establishing 100 Living Labs where new approaches to protecting and improving soil can be tested.

At present, 45 Living Labs have been established, involving more than 500 real sites across Europe, including farms. A further 60 to 70 sites are expected to become operational by 2028.

Turning innovation into lasting change

The mid-term assessment has shown us the importance of connecting research and innovation with action on the ground. The EU Missions bring together researchers, public authorities, businesses and local communities to develop solutions that can work in real-world conditions.

With four years remaining until the 2030 targets, the next stage will focus on expanding successful projects, attracting investment and increasing cooperation between regions.

From climate resilience and cleaner cities to better cancer care and healthier ecosystems, the EU Missions are already showing how research and innovation can address major challenges facing Europe.