Submitted by Sergey Kolesnikov on Fri, 23/06/2023 - 16:27
The European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change, which was created by the European Climate Law of 2021, has recommended reducing EU greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 90 to 95%, compared to the emission levels of 1990, by 2040.
The report that produced this recommendation drew upon the latest scientific GHG emission scenarios, and also took into account fairness and feasibility, to look at how climate neutrality could be achieved in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The Board analysed more the one thousand EU emission pathways, identifying those that are aligned with the EU's goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, and also limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The Board considered the feasibility of these scenarios, including the challenges of scaling up green technologies - such as solar photovoltaics, wind power, and hydrogen energy - in the short-term.
Professor Laura Diaz Anadon, Co-Vice Chair of the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change and Director of CEENRG, commented:
The recommended 2040 target requires us to act quickly, ensuring smooth transitions to address environmental risks and tackle the challenges of scaling up technology. There are multiple pathways to achieve climate neutrality, requiring careful and adaptive decision making to navigate various policy options. All these pathways can generate numerous other benefits, including significant improvements in health and enhanced energy security.
Read the full EU report: Scientific advice for the determination of an EU-wide 2040 climate target and a greenhouse gas budget for 2030–2050
Read EU press release: EU climate Advisory Board recommends ambitious 2040 climate target and urgent transitions for the European Union
Media coverage:
- Reuters: EU told to slash greenhouse gas emissions 90-95% by 2040
- Bloomberg: Europe’s Next Goal Should be Emissions Cut of Up to 95%, Advisers Recommend
- La Vanguardia [in Spanish]: Los científicos asesores de la UE proponen reducir las emisiones de CO2 hasta un 95% en 2040
- DW: How will the EU reach its 2040 climate targets?
- Euractiv: Scientific advisers urge EU to cut emissions 90-95% by 2040
- S&P Global: EU advisory panel calls for 90-95% emissions cut by 2040
