The European Commission has announced a path for the European Union to become climate neutral by 2050, advocating for a 90 per cent net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 relative to 1990 levels.
Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner for Climate Action says, “We have just lived through the hottest year on record. The case for climate action is beyond doubt and requires planning now. Going forward, we will have to stand more firmly on two legs: a safe and healthy climate for all to live in, and a strong, resilient economy, with a bright future for business and a just transition for all.”
“This communication we are presenting today is also a message to our partners around the world that Europe continues to lead the way in global climate ambition. Tackling the climate crisis is a marathon, not a sprint. We need to make sure everyone crosses the finish line, and nobody is left behind,” adds Hoekstra.
The Commission plans to further discuss with stakeholders before a legislative proposal post-European elections, aligning with the EU Climate Law.
This recommendation aligns with the recommendations of the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change and the EU’s commitments to the Paris Agreement.
Here are the actions to be taken to achieve the target
Maroš Šefčovič, Executive VP for European Green Deal, Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight, says, “Europe has already made a strategic decision to invest in an innovative, sustainable and globally competitive economy, centred around agile clean industries.”
“Today, we are taking the next step to achieve just that, with an overarching aim to bring long-term prosperity, stable jobs, and the EU’s greater economic security.”
“We see industrial leadership and just transition as two sides of the same coin. As a strong global player in net-zero technologies, the EU will continue to keep fairness and solidarity front and centre of the European Green Deal.”
To achieve the 90 per cent greenhouse gas emissions reduction target by 2040, the EU plans to fully enforce existing laws, aiming for a 55 per cent reduction by 2030.
The strategy involves decarbonising industries using wind power, hydropower, and electrolysers while introducing measures to manage carbon emissions and invest in carbon capture technologies.
Additionally, there will be a focus on boosting domestic manufacturing in sectors like batteries, electric vehicles, and solar cells. The transition aims to prioritise fairness, solidarity, and social policies, supporting vulnerable citizens, regions, businesses, and workers through initiatives like the Social Climate Fund and the Just Transition Fund.
An inclusive approach involves open dialogues with stakeholders, including farmers, businesses, social partners, and citizens.
Kadri Simson, Commissioner for Energy adds, “The energy sector is leading the way in Europe’s decarbonisation and emissions reduction, and we must continue on this path towards 2040.”
“In the 2030s, we should see major progress in the transition away from fossil fuels and an increasing share of renewables in our energy mix. We are sending a clear signal to investors that Europe is staying the course and offers them long-term predictability and stability.”
“For our citizens, we are giving a clear sign that cleaner solutions are on the way and that we are accompanying them in the transition.”