The European Commission welcomes today’s adoption of two final pillars of its ‘Fit for 55′ legislative package for delivering the EU’s 2030 climate targets. With the adoption today of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation and the revised Renewable Energy Directive, the EU now has legally binding climate targets covering all key sectors of the economy. Ahead of the crucial COP28 UN Climate Conference, and next year’s European elections, this package of legislation shows that Europe is delivering on its promises made to citizens and international partners to lead the way on climate action and shape the green transition for the benefit of citizens and industries. The final legislative package is expected to reduce EU net greenhouse gas emissions by 57% by 2030.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “The European Green Deal is delivering the change we need to reduce CO2 emissions. It does so while keeping the interests of our citizens in mind, and providing opportunities for our European industry. The legislation to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 is now in place, and I am very happy that we are even on track to overshoot this ambition. This is an important sign to Europe and to our global partners that the green transition is possible, that Europe is delivering on its promises.”
With the adoption today of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation and the revised Renewable Energy Directive, the EU now has legally binding climate targets covering all key sectors of the economy. Under the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation, aviation fuel suppliers will have to blend increasing amounts of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) with kerosene, starting with a 2% minimum blend in 2025, and rising to 70% in 2050. The Regulation is expected to reduce aviation CO2 emissions by around two thirds by 2050 compared to a ‘no action’ scenario, and to improve air quality.
The overall package includes emissions reduction targets across a broad range of sectors, a target to boost natural carbon sinks, and an updated emissions trading system to cap emissions, put a price on pollution and generate investments in the green transition, and social support for citizens and small businesses. To ensure a level playing field for European companies, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism ensures that imported goods pay an equivalent carbon price on targeted sectors. The EU now has updated targets on renewable energy and energy efficiency, and will phase out new polluting vehicles by 2035, while boosting charging infrastructure and the use of alternative fuels in road transport, shipping and aviation.
While this legislative package is a central part of the European Green Deal, work continues on other pending legislative files and proposals, and implementation is now starting in the Member States.
