The European Environment Agency (EEA) has published its “Trends and Projections” annual report, revealing an 8% drop in the European Union’s total net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2023. This represents the largest reduction seen in decades, falling by 37% compared to their 1990 level. The EEA attributes the decline to a significant decrease in the use of coal, the increase in renewable energy sources (from 10.2% of final energy consumption in 2005 to 24% in 2023) and a decline of energy consumption within the Member States.
According to the EEA, net emissions are projected to drop by 43% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels) based on the measures currently in force in the EU. If additional measures planned by 22 Member States but not yet implemented are considered, net GHG emissions would decrease by 49% compared to 1990 levels. However, both projections fall short to the 55% reduction targeted by the EU Climate Law.