EU Greenhouse Gas Emissions Plummet by 8% in 2023

The EU’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 8% in 2023, according to the European Environment Agency (EEA), The Guardian reported yesterday.

This significant reduction, driven by a transition to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, brings emissions down to 37% below 1990 levels.

The decline mirrors the drop seen during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this progress, the EEA warns that current policies will only achieve a 43% reduction by 2030, short of the EU’s target of 55%. The energy sector experienced the largest decrease, while agriculture and transport emissions lagged. With the climate crisis intensifying, the EU emphasizes the need for accelerated action.

These findings come ahead of the upcoming Cop29 climate summit, where discussions will focus on enhancing climate initiatives and funding for a cleaner economy.