https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20180703STO07123/climate-change-in-europe-facts-and-figures
Climate Change in Europe: Facts and Figures – Summary
- Emissions in the EU:
The European Union has significantly reduced its greenhouse gas emissions. In 1990, the EU contributed about 15.2% to global emissions. By 2023, this share dropped to 6.0%. Overall emissions were 37% lower in 2023 compared to 1990, including an 8% drop from the previous year.
- Climate Targets:
The EU aims to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels) and to become climate neutral by 2050.
- Impacts of Climate Change:
Europe is the fastest-warming continent, with a temperature increase of 2.3°C above pre-industrial levels. This has led to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires.
- EU Action – The European Green Deal:
The European Green Deal is the EU’s main strategy for climate neutrality by 2050. In 2023, the EU revised its Renewable Energy Directive to set a legally binding target of at least 42.5% renewable energy use by 2030.
