Germany on track for national 2030 climate target despite missing EU goals

(EurActiv, 15 Mar 2024) While specific EU climate targets are out of reach for Germany, its economy is well on track to meet the national target of cutting emissions by 65% by 2030.

Germany plans to slash emissions by 65% relative to 1990 levels by 2030, before becoming climate-neutral in 2045. The country is almost halfway there – down from 1,200 million tonnes in 1990 to around 670 in 2023.

“The figures show: Germany is on track – for the first time. If we stay on course, we will achieve our 2030 climate targets,” Robert Habeck, the minister of economy and climate action, said while presenting the 2023 figures and the 2030 outlook on Friday (15 March).

For 2023, Germany’s emissions saw a sharp drop owing to high energy prices and the subsequent drop in output. 

But “even with a stable and growing economy, we can do it,” said Habeck, adding that at the average annual growth of 1.4%, Germany is projected to meet the 2030 target.

This is largely due to the projected overachievement of the energy sector – which is on track to save an extra 175 million tonnes of CO2 – alongside a 37 million tonne overachievement by industry. Some smaller gains will be made by agriculture and waste industries. 

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EurActiv, 15 Mar 2024: Germany on track for national 2030 climate target despite missing EU goals