This is the biggest annual decline in decades, with the exception of 2020 when the coronavirus led to a 9.8% reduction in emissions
The European Commission published today the 2024 progress report on climate actionaccording to which the net greenhouse gas emissions of the European Union (EU) were reduced by 8.3% in 2023 compared to the previous year. This is the largest annual decline in decades, with the exception of 2020, when the coronavirus led to a 9.8% reduction in emissions. Net greenhouse gas emissions are now 37% below 1990 levels, while GDP has increased by 68% over the same period, demonstrating the continued decoupling of emissions from economic growth. The EU remains on track to meet its commitment to reduce emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
Mr. Wopke HoekstraCommissioner for Climate Action, said: “The EU is leading the way in the clean transition, as 2023 was another year of significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The EU is currently responsible for 6% of global emissions. Ahead of the upcoming COP29, we are once again proving to our international partners that it is possible to take climate action and invest in growing our economy at the same time. Unfortunately, the report also shows that our work must continue, both inside the EU and abroad, as we see the toll climate change is taking on our citizens.”
While this report provides encouraging news about the EU’s reduction in emissions, last year also saw more catastrophic events and loss of lives and livelihoods due to our already changing climate, while global emissions have yet to peak. Continued action is needed to ensure that the EU meets its 2030 targets and is on track to reach its future 2040 target, as well as the net zero emissions target for 2050. The EU must also to continue its international contacts, starting with COP29 next month, to ensure that our international partners also take the necessary steps.
The Climate Action Progress Report, which complements the annual State of the Energy Union report, describes the progress made towards meeting the EU’s emission reduction targets, as required by the Governance Regulation.
Korina Georgiou
Source: Skai
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