The European Union (EU) is on track to meet its 2030 climate goals, according to calculations by the European Commission based on the climate plans of most Member States.
The EU is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 54% by 2030 compared to 1990, just shy of its 55% target.
"This is excellent news for both climate and our economies, even though there is still work to be done," said Commissioner for Climate, Wopke Hoekstra. "Emissions have dropped by 37% since 1990, while the economy has grown by nearly 70%, demonstrating that climate action and economic growth can go hand in hand."
The EU reports that most Member States are on course to contribute to the European goal of using 42.5% renewable energy by 2030, with hopes to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
The Commission had previously announced its ambition to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, although this plan has not been officially proposed due to concerns from some Member States about its feasibility.
Competition with China, tariff threats by US President Donald Trump, and the rise of far-right movements in various countries have resulted in delays to laws, such as the anti-deforestation law, and prompted the Commission to review a series of legislations.
Nonetheless, the EU promises to have a new plan ready for the next climate conference (COP30) in Brazil.
Belgium, Estonia, and Poland have yet to submit their energy-climate plans. Flemish Minister of Climate Melissa Depraetere announced in mid-May that Belgium aims to have a plan ready by summer after missing the second deadline of 12 May.
Last November, the European Commission initiated infringement proceedings against Belgium.
