Brussels – Slovenian Minister for the Environment, Climate and Energy Bojan Kumer stated that the EU’s climate objectives, currently under deliberation by member state environmental ministers, must rely on scientifically-based evidence and adhere to the Paris climate agreement.
Kumer emphasized the importance of basing Slovenia’s position on scientific findings while maintaining a clear connection to the Paris Agreement during discussions related to the EU’s framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.
With the Danish presidency of the EU Council coordinating a declaration of intent, it became apparent that reaching a consensus on including a 2040 emissions reduction target in the EU climate law was unfeasible at this meeting. This target would also affect the EU’s nationally determined contribution (NDC) to emissions reduction for 2035 under the Paris Agreement.
It is likely that the EU will miss the September 30 deadline for submitting its NDC to the United Nations, as member state leaders will review climate law amendments before the EU Council’s final decision at the summit in Brussels on October 23. Finalization of a climate target for 2040 will occur after this, which will subsequently inform the target for 2035.
Kumer remarked that discussing climate policies at the highest levels is beneficial, as they influence all other areas of policy. He noted that the delay in submitting the NDC will not diminish the ambition of the targets.
During the meeting, he endorsed a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, highlighting the necessity for a robust support framework that includes clear legislation and equitable allocation of financial resources, predominantly from the emissions trading system (ETS), which should remain within member states. (September 18)
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