Each country has been given its own target for 2030 based on 2005 levels, with richer countries such as Luxembourg, Austria and Germany requested to bring down emissions by up to 40% in less than 14 years.
The EC has set smaller targets for Eastern and southern European states, reflecting their economic position, while Bulgaria has been set the challenge of maintaining its 2005 emissions levels.
Although the UK’s part in the European Union’s energy and climate framework is now unclear, following the June referendum, the target seems to be in line with its goal to cut emissions by 57% by 2032 against 1990 levels – contained within the UK government’s fifth carbon budget, which was approved by parliament last month.
A spokeswoman for the newly formed Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy stressed that the EU’s existing climate targets still apply to the UK. “Tackling climate change is a priority for the government,” she said. “Setting long-term targets to reduce our emissions is a fundamental part of building a secure, affordable and clean energy system that our families and businesses can rely on, and that is fit for the 21st century.
“The existing rules on the EU climate change targets still apply and so we will continue to participate in negotiations to ensure we get the best deal for the UK.”