Despite the “positive trends” recorded by the Commission since the entry into force of the Seveso Directive, “risks persist”. From its headquarters in Brussels, the European Commission explains that “recent disasters – such as the 2019 Lubrizol fire in Rouen (France) and the 2021 chemical factories explosion in Leverkusen (Germany) – highlight the need for continuous action, constant oversight and robust safety measures”. In this sense, the Commission “will continue working with Member States, industry, emergency services, and civil society to ensure that the Seveso framework remains fit for purpose in a rapidly evolving industrial, environmental and security context”. Commissioner for Environment Jessika Roswall (pictured) said: “Fifty years after Seveso, the lesson remains clear: prevention saves lives. The Seveso Directive has helped make Europe one of the safest places in the world for industrial activity, but we cannot be complacent. As climate risks intensify and new technologies offer transformation of our societies and economies, we must continue to be consciously alert and anticipate emerging threats, stay agile and strengthen our preparedness. Protecting people, communities and the environment goes hand in hand with building a resilient and competitive European industry”.