This decrease surpasses previous conventional estimates and confirms that EU countries have collectively taken a major step toward their climate targets.
The reduction is particularly notable given that the EU’s economy experienced modest growth of 1.2 percent. This indicates that economic growth and reduction of pollutants can, to some degree, go hand in hand.
The substantial drop in emissions resulted from a combination of factors. First, stricter environmental laws have paid off, leading to reduced use of fossil fuels. Second, the mild winter of 2023 played an important role, as energy demand for heating was significantly lower than usual.
The release of these new figures came at a crucial time, just before the European Parliament hearing on the potential reappointment of Wopke Hoekstra as EU Climate Commissioner.
Hoekstra, former Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, had to account for his future plans and how he intends to support the EU’s climate objectives.
In his statement, Hoekstra made clear that he wants full implementation of European environmental regulations and promised to abide by all agreements set out in the Green Deal and broader climate strategy. Opponents openly questioned Hoekstra’s commitment.
The new emissions data is not only an encouraging signal for the EU as a whole but also underlines the necessity to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement.