The European Union has agreed a formal pledge to achieve a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels by 2030 ahead of climate change talks later this year.
The EU has also asked the US and China in making transparent their plans ahead of a global climate agreement to be concluded in Paris in December this year. Countries have agreed to submit their intended nationally determined contributions, containing emissions reductions targets, well in advance of Paris and by March 2015 for those ready to do so.
“I now call on all our partners, especially major and emerging economies, to come forward in time and at least match our level of ambition,” said Miguel Arias Caeete, the EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy. “In Paris, we will have a real opportunity to conclude an agreement that will help the world avoid dangerous climate change. The EU is committed to agreeing an ambitious Protocol that will address emissions reductions, facilitate adaptation to climate change impacts and provide support from those countries in a position to do so to implement climate action in countries that need it.”
The EU target, which has to be met domestically, will mean member states have to buy into non-European carbon reductions schemes. The 40% reduction target is likely to be shared between member states.