EU Reports 8.3% Drop in Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The European Union (EU) has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 8.3% over the past year. This marks significant progress, especially as global emissions continue to rise. However, the EU emissions reduction still falls short of meeting its ambitious 2030 climate goals.

Climate Action and Economic Growth

EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra highlighted that climate action can drive economic growth. He reinforced this message ahead of the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan, showcasing the EU’s leadership in climate efforts. Hoekstra emphasized, “We demonstrate that climate action and economic growth can go hand in hand.”

Current Emission Levels and Future Goals

While emissions are down 37% from 1990 levels, the EU’s 2030 goal of a 55% reduction seems out of reach. Preliminary data indicates that EU emissions now make up 6% of the global total, which rose by 1.9% last year, hitting a record 53 billion tonnes.

Sector-Specific Emission Trends

Emission reductions vary across sectors. Energy and industry saw a 47% reduction in CO2 emissions under the EU’s emissions trading scheme since 2005. However, emissions from buildings, agriculture, transport, small industry, and waste management dropped by just 2% in 2023. The aviation sector saw a concerning 9.5% increase in emissions.

Renewable Energy and Coal Decline

The European Environment Agency (EEA) attributes the emission drop to reduced coal consumption and growing renewable energy use. Wind and solar power also contributed to the decline, alongside lower energy demand. However, current climate measures may lead to only a 43% reduction by 2030. Even with planned measures from 22 member states, emissions may drop by only 49%.

Need for Comprehensive Action

Leena Ylä-Mononen from the EEA stressed the need for comprehensive action across all sectors to meet the EU’s net-zero target. “The impact of climate change is accelerating, leaving us no choice but to strengthen our resilience and cut emissions,” she said. The report urges EU governments to commit more to climate policies and ensure a sustainable future.