EU to be carbon-neutral by 2050
The European Commission has announced a new long-term strategy for the EU to be carbon-neutral by 2050.
The European Commission has announced a new long-term strategy for the EU to be carbon-neutral by 2050.
The European Commission notes the importance of partnership in achieving this target. The long-term strategy aims to create a vision for stakeholders, researchers, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike to develop new and innovative industries, businesses and associated jobs.
Miguel Arias Cañete, Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy, said: "The EU has already started the modernisation and transformation towards a climate neutral economy. And today, we are stepping up our efforts as we propose a strategy for Europe to become the world's first major economy to go climate neutral by 2050. Going climate neutral is necessary, possible and in Europe's interest. It is necessary to meet the long-term temperature goals of the Paris Agreement.”
The role of the transport sector was also noted as being important in achieving this ambitious target.
Violeta Bulc, Commissioner for Transport, said: “All transport modes should contribute to the decarbonisation of our mobility system. This requires a system approach with low and zero emission vehicles, strong increase in rail network capacity, and a much more efficient organisation of the transport system, based on digitalisation; incentives for behavioural changes; alternative fuels and smart infrastructure; and global commitments. All this driven by innovation and investments."
The Commission adopted its strategic vision yesterday, ahead of the COP24 which takes place from 2nd to 14th December in Katowice, Poland. During the conference, the EU will host over 100 side events at the EU Pavilion, including several events on long-term climate perspectives and strategies.
The European Union has said there needs to be a debate among member states about how to achieve the goal. To align with the Paris agreement, the EU will submit the ambitious strategy to the United Nations by early 2020.
This news follows the European Parliament approving a single-use plastic ban that is set to be put into place in 2021.
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