EEA report on trends and drivers of EU greenhouse gas emissions

On 29 May 2020, the European Environment Agency (EEA) published a report which found that EU member states, together with the UK, cut greenhouse gas emissions by 23.2% between 1990 and 2018. During this period, the EU’s contribution to global emissions is estimated to have decreased from 15% to 8%.

The key messages from the report are: 

• Greenhouse gas emissions continue to decrease in absolute terms, per capita and per euro generated in the economy. 
• Most sectors reduced emissions in the past three decades, with the exception of transportation where demand outpaces climate-policy benefits. 
• Many factors and policies have contributed to lower greenhouse emissions, but much faster emission reductions will be needed to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. 
• Integrated policies and sustainable green investments are essential in achieving long-term climate objectives.

Source: EEA, 29 May 2020