Background on the European Union’s Climate Leadership
The European Union (EU) has approved a minimum agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, demonstrating its commitment to climate leadership despite differing opinions among member states. Denmark, currently holding the rotating presidency of the EU, presented this pledge to show that Europe remains steadfast in its climate ambitions.
Key Players and Their Roles
On Thursday, the 27 EU countries approved an emission reduction range of -66.25% to -72.5% compared to 1990 levels in Brussels, just before the upcoming UN General Assembly and COP30 in Brazil in November.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will advocate for Europe’s climate goals in New York on the following Wednesday during the UN General Assembly.
COP30 and Current EU Climate Stance
COP30, the major UN climate conference, is set to commence on November 10 in Brazil. The EU, recently impacted by the rise of far-right parties in the 2024 European elections, appears less ambitious on environmental issues compared to the previous mandate.
The European Commission’s proposal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels remains stalled. Denmark, Sweden, and Spain support this proposal, while countries like Hungary and the Czech Republic oppose it, citing industrial protection.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main agreement approved by the EU? The EU has agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions between -66.25% and -72.5% by 2035, based on 1990 levels.
- Who presented this agreement, and why? Denmark, currently holding the rotating presidency of the EU, presented this pledge to show Europe’s unwavering commitment to climate leadership.
- What is the significance of COP30? COP30 is a major UN climate conference starting on November 10 in Brazil, where global leaders will discuss and negotiate climate change mitigation strategies.
- Why is the EU appearing less ambitious on environmental issues? The rise of far-right parties in the 2024 European elections has influenced the EU’s stance, making it less ambitious on environmental issues compared to the previous mandate.
- What is the status of the European Commission’s 2040 emission reduction proposal? The proposal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels remains blocked due to opposition from countries like Hungary and the Czech Republic.
