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Position papers
Position papers are a cornerstone of EBC’s advocacy efforts, providing clear and concise statements on key issues affecting the European construction sector. These documents outline our views, priorities, and recommendations on policies and initiatives that shape the industry’s future.
Each position paper reflects the collective voice of construction SMEs and craftsmen, addressing challenges and opportunities in areas such as sustainability, innovation, the labor market, and economic growth. Through these papers, EBC engages with European policymakers, stakeholders, and industry partners to influence decisions that impact the sector at national and EU levels.
Our position papers are more than just advocacy tools; they are a resource for understanding the evolving needs of the construction industry and the crucial role SMEs play in driving progress. Explore this section to gain insights into EBC’s policy stances and how we are working to shape a fair, dynamic, and sustainable construction ecosystem.
EBC position paper – EU Omnibus Simplification Package
Economy
A more SME- and construction-friendly sustainability reporting framework: EBC position paper on the Omnibus Simplification Package. EBC welcomes the initiative by the European Commission to ease sustainability reporting for SMEs.
EBC Position paper on Limiting the subcontracting chain
Social Affairs
Economy
EBC proposes four recommendations to address the challenges faced by micro and small construction enterprises (SMEs) due to abuses in subcontracting practices and asks for an exploration by the European Commission of how European legislation could improve prevent social dumpling and unfair competition in the construction sector.
EBC position paper on skills and labour needs in the EU construction sector “Crafting the workforce of tomorrow”
Social Affairs
EBC position paper on skills and labour needs in the EU construction sector
EBC position paper on the Late Payment Directive (2023)
Economy
EBC develops the call for actions from construction SMEs and crafts to further improve payment behaviour of enterprises and public authorities through an ambitious revision of the directive, based on the principle of zero tolerance for long payment terms and late payment.
EBC position paper on the revision of the Directive on asbestos at work
Social Affairs
EBC stresses worker safety in asbestos removal while highlighting the financial and technical constraints faced by SMEs. EBC calls for realistic occupational exposure limits, streamlined measurement methods, and improved training and financial support for SMEs involved in asbestos-related work.
Joint statement #BetterBuildingsEU – The European Green Deal needs to lead to concrete actions for integrated building renovations
Energy & Environment
On the first day of Ursula von der Leyen’s European Commission, 12 major European clean energy and construction associations joined forces, calling for a bold strategy concerning the renovation of the EU building stock to be part of the European Green Deal – with on-site renewables, energy efficiency, and smart energy solutions at its core.
European Housing Forum joint letter – Decarbonisation of the EU Housing stock through contextualised EU climate policies
Social Affairs
With the other members of the EHF, EBC highlights the need for tailored climate policies that balance energy efficiency with affordability. Additionally, EBC calls for flexibility in regulations, targeted funding, and holistic approaches to renovation that consider social and economic impacts on vulnerable groups.
Joint EBC-UIPI position paper on One-Stop-Shops for Sustainable Renovation
Energy & Environment
EBC and UIPI propose scaling up One-Stop Shops (OSSs) to streamline renovation projects by offering holistic services, including technical advice and financing. OSSs address barriers to sustainable renovations by simplifying processes and ensuring affordability. EBC and UIPI emphasize public-private cooperation, flexible funding, and enhanced consumer guidance to improve accessibility and foster local business opportunities
EBC position paper on the Renovation Wave
Energy & Environment
The European Builders Confederation (EBC) supports the EU's "Renovation Wave" to improve building energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and stimulate SMEs. Key priorities include proportional energy standards, financial incentives, and accessible renovation advice. EBC highlights the need for workforce upskilling, digital transformation, and gradual policies to aid SMEs in adapting to sustainability goals. It stresses fair public procurement, streamlined regulations, and improved material recycling. While welcoming the initiative, EBC warns against impractical regulations and advocates balanced measures to support construction SMEs and property owners effectively.
