Tens of thousands marched in Brussels demanding immediate action to combat climate change. Police estimated the number of participants at 45,000, while organizers claimed it was 60,000. This march was initiated by the Climate Coalition and other environmental groups, concluding near the institutions of the European Union.
Protesters and Their Messages
Participants in this demonstration carried various banners and placards, and bore a giant inflatable Earth designed to appear as if it were screaming. This design aimed to give a human voice to the planet and call for immediate action against climate change. Protesters demanded the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies and an increase in taxes on this industry, emphasizing the need for a fair transition to cleaner energy.
Context of Climate Change in Europe
This demonstration followed a summer that recorded unprecedented temperatures in Europe, with heatwaves occurring repeatedly across the continent. Belgium also faced deadly heat, and wildfires swept through the Fens nature reserve. In this context, expectations for the COP31 climate conference are low. The United States has retreated from international efforts to combat climate change during Donald Trump's presidency, and climate action has also been sidelined in Europe.
The European Commission has also proposed delaying reporting requirements for fossil fuel importers under the EU's methane regulations by one year, from 2027 to 2028. Implementing this change will require approval from EU representatives and member states. This issue has also added to concerns about the seriousness of climate action across the continent.
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