On 23 January 2008, the European Commission unveiled an ambitious package of proposals to to fight climate change and promote renewable energy in line with EU commitments. This Climate Action package builds on the many targets the EU set itself in 2007 for 2020 as part of the Energy Policy for the European Union including 20% reduction in greenhouse gases; 20% increase in energy efficiency, and increasing renewable energy use to 20% of total energy consumption.

European Commission President, José Manuel Barroso, explained, the European Commission's mission, indeed its duty "...is to provide the right policy framework for transformation to a low carbon European economy and to continue to lead the international action to protect our planet,.."

"This week the European commission will move to turn the European Union's commitments into concrete action," President Barroso said. "Tackling climate change is crucial to safeguard the future of our planet. It also brings major new opportunities for Europe. The time has come to seize them with confidence, and with both hands."

The Climate Action package seeks to ensure the sustainability of the planet, provide new business opportunities for European companies and to improve the security of energy supply by bringing about a shift towards renewable energies.

The proposed measures include:

• an improved emissions trading system (ETS) covering more emissions and allowing firms in one EU country to buy allowances in any other
• an emission reduction target for industries not covered by the ETS (e.g. buildings, transport, waste) so that everyone contributes
• legally enforceable targets for increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix - the targets will reflect each country's individual needs and its potential
• new rules on carbon capture and storage and on environmental subsidies.

The overall goal is to cap global temperature increases at 2°C.

The proposals aim at a more environment-friendly Europe. But they will also help create a more industry-friendly, jobs-friendly and consumer-friendly EU.

The package was adopted and now forms the cornerstone of Commission policy regarding climate change and the use of renewable enrgy sources.

Further information including the full Climate Action Package can be found on the official Climate Action site (see below). There you can also find links to speeches, press releases, key documents, photo coverage, videos and links to the Climate Action pages for energy, environment and competition.

President Barroso's Website | Climate Action Website | Environment