EU Commission: EU closing in on 2030 climate target

Brussels (dpa) – European Union countries are on track to cut harmful greenhouse gas emissions by 54 percent by 2030, bringing them closer to the EU’s target of 55 percent, the European Commission said on Wednesday.

The assessment is based on national climate and energy plans in which member countries have to detail how they intend to reach the bloc’s long-term target of becoming climate-neutral by 2050 and reducing emissions by more than half by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

The Commission called on member states to stay on course and to fully implement their plans.

“Emissions are down 37% since 1990, while the economy has grown nearly 70% – proving climate action and growth go hand in hand,” said EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. “Now we must build on this momentum,” he urged.

“Investing in clean technologies and innovation is essential for industrial competitiveness and opens new markets for EU companies. Our commitment to the clean transition gives investors clarity and strengthens Europe’s resilience and prosperity.”

“This is a decisive moment – every sector in every member state must contribute to delivery,” Hoekstra concluded.

Green Deal on a slippery slope

The Commission aims to support capitals with streamlined processes and better access to funding to help member states implement their plans.

Despite the overall positive assessment, five EU countries need to do more for a fair burden sharing in sectors like transport, buildings and agriculture, the Commission said.

While the expansion of renewable energy is progressing well, energy efficiency including investing in the renovation of buildings can still be improved in several countries, according to the EU’s executive arm.

The EU’s climate targets are part of the so-called Green Deal, an unprecedented package of measures and legislation intended to tackle global warming. While various laws have been adopted in Brussels in recent years, implementation in the individual countries remains a major challenge.

Stricter rules for agriculture were partially withdrawn following major farmer protests in many EU countries. Requirements for car manufacturers to meet emission limits were recently relaxed.

The Commission is expected to present a proposal for a new legally binding interim target for 2040 in the coming weeks, after having previously recommended a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 90 percent. (28 May)