EU Advances Towards 2030 Climate Targets with Continued Emissions Cuts
The European Commission’s 2025 Climate Action Progress Report highlights ongoing progress as the EU further reduces emissions in 2024, maintaining momentum toward its 2030 climate objectives. This progress stems from increased use of clean energy, strengthened policies, larger investments, and enhanced efforts in adaptation and global climate finance.
Emission Reductions in 2024
In 2024, the EU achieved a 2.5% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions compared to the previous year. This decline keeps the EU on course to reach its 2030 target of reducing emissions by 55% relative to 1990 levels, assuming full implementation of current and planned policies by both the EU and its Member States, supported by robust investment flows.
Long-Term Emission Trends and Economic Growth
Since 1990, the EU has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 37%. When excluding international aviation and shipping emissions, the reduction rises to 39%. Meanwhile, the EU’s economy has expanded by 71%, demonstrating decoupling of economic growth from emissions.
Sectoral Contributions to Emission Cuts
- Energy Sector: The primary driver of emission reductions, with renewable energy becoming the main source of electricity production.
- Agriculture and LULUCF: Both sectors have contributed to lowering emissions through improved practices and land use management.
- Transport Sector: Emissions have continued to increase, including from domestic and international aviation and maritime transport.
"The energy sector remains the main driver, with renewables becoming the leading source of electricity production."
Despite positive steps, challenges remain in controlling transport emissions, which continue to rise.
Author’s Summary
The EU steadily lowers emissions through decarbonizing energy and land use improvements while economic growth continues, yet transport emissions still pose a challenge.