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.

Policies

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 on Digital Building Logbooks and Building Renovation Passports

Digitalisation & Innovation
EBC backs these tools to improve building information and renovation planning. It underscores the importance of clear data ownership, security, and cost affordability for SMEs. The tools aim to streamline the renovation process and improve energy efficiency while enhancing user knowledge.

ECCREDI joint position paper on Horizon Europe and Built environment and construction as a priority

Digitalisation & Innovation
This paper calls for a comprehensive approach within the Horizon Europe program by establishing a Co-programmed European Partnership on the Built Environment and Construction. The vision emphasizes smart, energy-efficient, and inclusive cities by 2050, supported by innovative technologies and circular economy principles. The ECCREDI paper underscores the need for cross-sectoral collaboration, integration of digital technologies, and strategic investment to modernize the built environment and promote sustainable development.

EBC Position on the implementation of Public Procurement in the European Union

Economy
In its paper on the implementation of the public procurement directive, EBC calls for better access to tender information, reduced administrative burdens, and fair evaluation criteria to improve SME participation. Recommendations include dividing contracts into smaller lots, enforcing payment deadlines, and providing training for public authorities. These measures aim to create fairer opportunities for SMEs and support regional development

Joint declaration: Construction products manufacturers & contractors urgently need a standardisation system that works

Standardisation
EBC, FIEC, CPE and SBS highlight delays in updating harmonized standards under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), which hinder market efficiency. The paper stresses the importance of a streamlined standardization process to reduce costs and maintain competitiveness. They call for collaborative solutions between industry and European institutions to resolve backlogs and modernize the framework.

Construction 2050 paper: Building tomorrow’s Europe today

Digitalisation & Innovation
Major European construction representatives have united, to stress their commitment to the extension of the existing programme in the form of the “Construction 2050: Building tomorrow’s Europe today” initiative. They advocate a holistic policy framework to address challenges in the construction sector, including decarbonization, digital transformation, and workforce skills.

Declaration on Circular Economy in Construction

This document stresses the need for a circular economy approach within the construction sector, endorse by EBC, FIEC, CPE, CECE, SBS, EDA, ECOS and EEB. It identifies challenges such as reluctance to use recycled materials due to quality concerns, inconsistent supply, and regulatory barriers. The paper advocates for policy coherence, better market incentives, and improved construction design to enhance recycling and reuse rates

EBC Position paper on the Late Payment Directive

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 special VAT scheme for small enterprises

Joint Paper
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