Policy

Climate action

To prevent climate change from reaching dangerous levels, the EU must cut greenhouse gas emissions - as part of a wider international effort. Action is also needed to address the unavoidable impacts of a changing climate.

Page Contents

Policies

  • Greenhouse gas emission reduction

    The EU has set itself targets for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions progressively up to 2050.

  • Emissions trading

    The EU emissions trading system (ETS) helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power stations, industrial plants and flights within the EU.

  • International climate action

    The EU supports the UN's efforts on a new climate agreement and gives substantial funding to developing countries facing the effects of climate change.

  • Adapting to climate change

    The EU promotes action to help countries and regions deal with the current and future impacts of a changing climate.

  • Transport emissions

    EU policies and laws help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport, for example by setting emission limits for cars and vans.

  • Forest and agriculture emissions

    Forests and agricultural lands play an important role in climate change at EU and global level.

  • Low carbon technologies

    The EU promotes the development of low carbon technologies and makes sure that they are deployed safely and that risks are properly managed.

  • Fluorinated greenhouse gases

    EU legislation will cut the EU's emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases by two-thirds by 2030 compared with 2014 levels.

  • Ozone layer

    Under EU legislation, ozone-depleting substances have been phased out and replaced with climate-friendly alternatives.

  • Energy efficiency

    EU rules on buildings, industry, consumer products and transport are helping the EU to meet its energy-efficiency targets and move to a low-carbon society.

  • Renewable energy

    The EU coordinates work to reach national targets in line with the renewable energy directive. It also promotes alternative energy use in transport.