EU emission cut of 90% by 2040 is new target
THE European Commission has recommended a new emissions cut of 90% for all EU states by 2040.
Currently, countries are working towards a 55% greenhouse gas reduction from 1990 emissions levels by 2030.
The EC says the increased target will put Europe “on course towards climate neutrality by 2050, building a healthier and safer future for Europeans”.
Its proposal puts a strong focus on reducing emissions in industry, buildings and transport while a second document sets out how to capture and store carbon.
But following farming protests in some EU member states, the Financial Times reported the communication no longer refers to a 30% reduction target for methane, nitrogen and other gases linked to farming after speaking to EU officials.
If the overall proposal is adopted by the next Commission and written into European Climate
Law, Ireland will have to revise its own laws.
Sustainable energy expert, Prof Hannah Daly, said: “When it comes to greenhouse gas emissions, we often think that as long as we get to net-zero by 2050, climate change will be kept at safe levels.
“But this is a misconception – every tonne of carbon going into the atmosphere stays there, doing damage, for centuries or longer. So our climate commitments are far more about the journey than the destination.”
Ireland South MEP Sean Kelly welcomed the EC’S proposal.
He added: “We currently spend €1million every hour importing fossil fuels. Achieving a carbon-free electricity grid powered by renewables, coupled with electric heating and transport, is entirely achievable for Ireland in a 2040 timeframe.”