EU leaders move forward on Paris climate deal but struggle to shrug off coal: Greenpeace

19 March 2015
by greenpeace -- last modified 19 March 2015

The EU’s domestic energy plans are struggling to keep up with its climate change diplomacy, warned Greenpeace after a summit of European leaders in Brussels.

EU leaders pressed China, the US and other blocs to follow its lead and table commitments to cut carbon ahead of this November's global climate conference in Paris. But the leaders also endorsed a muddled set of plans for a European energy union that preserve the use of fossil fuels like coal, said Greenpeace.

Commenting on today's EU summit, Greenpeace EU energy policy adviser Tara Connolly said: "EU leaders have talked up their global climate leadership and talked down their addiction to an old and polluting energy system at home. Europe can still claim it's a step ahead on climate change - although it could do much more - but it's struggling to back this up with a clear vision on energy policy that cuts out coal and other fossil fuels. There's only so much you can promise before you have to deliver on the ground."

Energy union

EU leaders have backed a contradictory set of priorities for energy and climate policy contained in the European Commission's energy union plan. The plan supports the need to cut carbon emissions and recognises the role of renewable energy, but does not rule out fossil fuels like coal or shale gas in the context of energy security.

EU energy ministers will formally comment on the Commission's energy union plan at a meeting in June. The Commission is then expected to move ahead with specific policy proposals.

Paris climate conference

EU leaders also formally backed the EU's planned contribution to international efforts to cut carbon emissions in the context of the global climate conference in Paris in November. The EU has pledged to cut domestic emissions by at least 40% in 2030 and 80-95% in 2050.

While the EU could easily do more in terms of carbon cuts and renewables, the spotlight is now on other major economies to put their cards on the table. The likes of China and the US should make clear pledges to cut carbon emissions.

EU governments are also expected to agree a detailed joint negotiating position for Paris in June or October.
 

Greenpeace is an independent global campaigning organisation that acts to change attitudes and behaviour, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace. Greenpeace does not accept donations from governments, the EU, businesses or political parties.

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