Oxfam: Europe must review climate targets after weak climate package deal

On 23 October, European leaders met in Brussels to agree an EU climate and energy package up until 2030.  Leaders decided to curb C02 emissions by at least 40%, increase the amount of renewable energy in the mix to at least 27%, and set a non-binding target to reduce energy demand by at least 27%.  

In response to the announcement of the deal,  Oxfam’s Deputy Director of Advocacy & Campaigns Natalia Alonso said: “Today’s target of at least 40% of emissions reductions is welcome but only a first step, which falls far too short of what the EU needs to do to pull its weight in the fight against climate change. Insufficient action like this from the world's richest countries places yet more burden on the poorest people most affected by climate change, but least responsible for causing this crisis.

“By leaving the possibility to increase the 40% target as part of the international negotiations, European leaders such as Merkel and Cameron acknowledge that what has been proposed is inadequate – today's deal must set the floor not the ceiling of European action, and they must arrive in Paris with a more serious offer.

“It is shocking that business leaders called for higher -and binding- targets than those agreed by EU leaders. EU leaders had an historic opportunity to shape a smarter, fairer, more sustainable future through a clear shift towards renewable energy and energy efficiency today. Instead, they have been held back by the fossil fuel industry and their friends, settling for an underwhelming response that keeps the EU stuck in the energy and climate crisis.

“Leaders have agreed to slow down Europe’s energy saving effort and renewable energy development. This so-called climate package could subsidize coal to the tune of billions of euro.

“Despite this, European leaders still have the opportunity to redeem themselves by reviewing their emissions targets as early as possible next year and ensuring all EU countries commit the money needed to help poorer countries deal with climate change.”

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