UN 
(SDGTALKING) – The European Commission has announced that the European Union is just one percentage point away from its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030. An analysis published on Wednesday revealed that current national and regional policies are on track to achieve a 54% reduction.
Europe at the Center of Global Warming
Europe is one of the regions most severely affected by climate change. Deadly heatwaves, floods, and wildfires have increased in recent years, while scientific data shows that the continent is the fastest-warming region in the world.
The Commission’s statement emphasized that many countries have taken significant steps in their climate policies since 2022 and that this progress has continued despite political pressures.
Important Gains in Energy Transition
According to 2023 data, 24% of the EU’s energy consumption came from renewable sources. This shows that the energy sector is leading the transition. However, other emission sources such as agriculture and transportation have not yet undergone sufficient transformation.
The agricultural sector came to the fore last year with protests by farmers, and Brussels responded by relaxing some environmental regulations. Forest fires and environmental damage are also causing serious concern about their impact on carbon sinks. The Commission has stated that these areas are not expected to recover by 2030.
Environmental Sustainability Supports Economic Development
Due to high energy costs and trade pressures from the US, some countries have called for the softening of green policies in order to protect industry. The Commission argues that climate and growth targets can be pursued simultaneously despite these pressures.
EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said, “Emissions have fallen by 37% since 1990, while the economy has grown by nearly 70%, proving that climate action and growth go hand in hand. We must now maintain this momentum.”
Eyes on the 2040 Target
The EU has one of the most ambitious climate targets among the world’s major economies. The Commission is working on a 2040 climate plan. However, due to growing political backlash, the announcement of this plan has been postponed several times.
