Abstract
· The European Union as an intriguing challenge to the concept and manifestations of federalism, combining elements of international and constitutional law ;
· Institutional settings and competences within the EU: a brief overview ;
· Focus on environmental, energy and climate change competences/responsibilities ;
· EU challenges and commitments in the field of climate change ;
· Historic trends and projected progress ;
· EU and MS Climate policy: institutions, initiatives, mechanisms, funding ;
· Climate adaptation and mitigation policies: institutions, initiatives, mechanisms, funding ;
Some preliminary thoughts on flexibility, innovation, learning processes and coordination and cooperation challenges in the field of climate change within the EU.