Today, as part of the European Green Deal (EGD), the European Commission is launching its ‘Fit for 55’ package, aiming to cut emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and make the bloc carbon-neutral by 2050 through a revision of the EU’s energy and climate law. Vice-President of the Commission Frans Timmermans will present the set of initiatives to the Parliament’s Environment and Public Health Committee later today.

The package will overhaul existing laws such as the EU emission trading scheme and the renewable energy directive as well as introduce new initiatives including a carbon border adjustment mechanism, a new EU forest strategy and legislative tools promoting the use of sustainable alternative fuels in the shipping and aviation industry. In addition, to mitigate the social impact of higher carbon prices which is expected to raise transport and heating costs, the new Climate action social fund facility aims to channel revenues from carbon pricing to especially vulnerable citizens while making greener alternatives more affordable.

In June, following the provisional agreement between the Council and European Parliament in spring, the Council adopted its position on the European climate law, setting into legislation the objective of a climate-neutral EU by 2050. While Parliament had been advocating for bolder targets, the EU climate law brings Europe a step closer towards a climate neutral future, by transforming political commitments into a binding obligation and concrete action.

Key Texts

European Green Deal 

European Climate Law Proposal

Upcoming Dates:

18 September 2021: European Day of Sustainable Communities

11 – 24 October 2021: Fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity

1 – 12 November 2021: COP26

European Movement International position

As outlined in our policy position “The European Green Deal​”, EU climate action has the potential to enhance citizens’ wellbeing, support Europe’s recovery from COVID-19 and create a more resilient economy in the long run. By promoting the objectives of the EGD and the Climate Law, the European Climate Pact can foster true cooperation among stakeholders across Europe, encourage alliances, engage citizens.

While the promotion of sustainable alternatives and clean energies will be key to achieving the EU’s climate goals, these efforts need to be underpinned by adequate financial support and comprehensive policies as well as strong social requirements and commitments at the national and local level. Especially energy dependent industries as well as regions and citizens facing socio-economic challenges need to be supported. Moreover, the EU can use the leverage of its international partnerships to promote its values and climate ambitions beyond its borders.