Center-right legislators in the European Parliament have intensified their efforts to weaken two EU climate laws, an action that could undermine the bloc's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Delay in New Laws
The European People's Party, the largest group in Parliament, is seeking a three-year delay in methane emission regulations this week. This change, heavily lobbied by the fossil fuel sector and the U.S. government, could have significant impacts on the EU's climate policies.
Read more: Senate Democrats Seek Explanation from EPA Chief on Mifepristone Study
An increasing number of European People's Party legislators are also calling for a delay or removal of the new carbon price for transport and heating, known as ETS2. These laws are recognized as cornerstones of the EU's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A successful repeal of ETS2, in particular, would be a blow to the EU's climate goals, as this law accounts for about 40% of the bloc's greenhouse gas emissions.
Challenges and Concerns
These developments could also represent a significant victory for conservative legislators and national governments seeking to reduce EU climate regulations in favor of industrial competitiveness. The EU's greenhouse gas emissions trading system, which began in 2005, requires power plants and factories to purchase permits for each ton of carbon emitted. The total number of permits decreases each year and will eventually reach zero.
The ETS2 system will also apply to fuel suppliers for transport and heating starting in 2028. This scheme could be an effective tool for reducing greenhouse gases from polluting activities, but many politicians are concerned that rising costs on gasoline, diesel, and natural gas will put additional pressure on citizens' lives.
Currently, nine national delegations from the European People's Party, including Poland, Spain, Italy, France, Romania, Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Estonia, have called for the repeal of ETS2. One proposed amendment, supported by Adam Jarubas, a Polish legislator from the European People's Party, calls for the complete removal of ETS2.
While there is no majority in Parliament or among member states for delaying or repealing ETS2, upcoming elections next year are likely to increase the number of right-wing governments, which could help pressure for the removal or delay of these laws.
Read more: Hundreds of Thousands in California Forced to Evacuate Due to Malibu Fire · European Parliament Finalizes Secret Voting Results Against the Far Right
