ONLINE PRESS BRIEFING: How EU climate targets are implemented on the ground (NECPs)

By the 30th of June, all EU countries are required to submit their updated draft National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) to the European Commission. The European Union has concluded negotiations on almost all energy and climate files under the ‘Fit for 55’ package, establishing climate and energy targets that Member States must achieve.

Check the recording of the press briefing organized this morning by CAN Europe and the Life Together for 1.5 Consortium.

Quotes from the press briefing:

“Action at national level is crucial to increase the EU’s collective climate ambition. Now more than ever, because action in this decade is vital to keep the 1.5 target of the Paris Agreement in reach. EU governments need to make use of their NECPs to go beyond the minimum requirements set in EU law and enable the bloc to achieve at least -65% emission cuts by 2030 and reach net zero emissions no later than 2040”, said Klaus Röhrig – Head of Climate, CAN Europe.

“Spain, as it assumes the EU Presidency, has a crucial role in leading the update of the NECPs, setting an example for a responsible, renewable deployment, reducing consumption, improving energy efficiency, increasing climate ambition, implementing bold and effective sectoral policies and measures. Furthermore, it should always prioritise placing people at the centre of the energy transition and establishing strong links with biodiversity policies”, said Ana Marquez – Climate and energy officer, SEO/BirdLife, Spain.

“The National Energy and Climate Plans are about everything and all at once. These plans cover Member States’ new climate and energy targets until 2030, implementation, financing, and ultimately impact our day-to-day life. We need strong plans to accelerate climate action in all sectors, if we are to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees as the Paris Agreement requires and build the sustainable, resilient energy system we need”, said Brigitta Bozsó – Project manager and policy expert, CAN Europe.

More information about the NECPs can be found in this media briefing. 

In addition, climate and environment NGOs based in 12 European countries gathered more than 70 examples of climate action measures implemented on the ground. These should inspire all governments and put Europe on track for achieving a safe and stable climate and to ensure we all harvest the benefits of a sustainable life. Check the summary here or go to the website for the entire content.