Page 3 - Environmental_Climat change

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Introduction to the topic

According to the definition, climate change “are all significant changes that take place in the environment
and last for a long time. Climate change includes major changes in temperature, rainfall, etc., as well as
other effects that occur over several decades or more” 1

Rising temperatures result in climate and weather changes. We are increasingly seeing floods, droughts,
heavy rainfall, and strong heatwaves caused by climate change in many places on earth. All of these
changes will be more visible in the coming decades and will be a big challenge for our society and
environment.

As part of the fight against climate change, the EU is working with international partners and pursuing an
ambitious policy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

EU legislation and policies:
• EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) – The main aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from
industry, flights, and power sector in the EU.
• Sectors, not belonging to emissions trading, such as transport, buildings, and agriculture, have their
national targets.
• Providing CO2 emission standards for vehicles will help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to
transportation.
• Developing energy efficiency and using renewable energy.
• Managing climate policies and governance of EU energy.
• Implementing innovative low-carbon technologies, which will help us reduce the greenhouse gas
emissions.
• Phasing out the fluorinated greenhouse gases, which are contributing to climate warming.
• Conservation of the ozone layer
• Financial help to climate actions. 2

The main key energy and climate targets:

• 2020 climate and energy package
• 2030 climate and energy framework
• 2050 long-term strategy

The EU is constantly monitoring and controlling progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. All
activities related to the fight against climate change will require investment, innovation, and research.

1 https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/climatechange/climate-change-basic-information_.html
2 https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/eu-climate-action_en