An EU 2030 climate target of at least 55% is not only necessary – it is also possible

(EurActiv, 15 Sep 2020) Ambitious climate policy in the EU can underpin a sustainable economic growth that supports the development of a competitive, modern economy that delivers benefits for all, and acts as a beacon of inspiration to the rest of the world, writes Dan Jørgensen.

Dan Jørgensen is Denmark’s minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities.

The EU has less than four months to agree on an enhanced climate target for 2030 and submit it to the UN in line with our global commitments. We must seize this opportunity to show global leadership and put pressure on other global parties to follow suit.

The Commission will put forward its plan for the 2030 target this week. This will mark the start of negotiations. As experience shows, these are very difficult negotiations. There has previously been – understandable – concerns about competitiveness, financing, level of ambition and whether other global actors will reciprocate.

Despite the very short timeline to conclude the negotiations, I believe that this time we should confidently face the global challenge and take leadership. A climate target of at least 55% emissions reductions is not only necessary. It is also possible. We can achieve it in a way that is fair, cost-effective and preserves the EU’s competitiveness.

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EurActiv, 15 Sep 2020: An EU 2030 climate target of at least 55% is not only necessary – it is also possible