Climate policy architecture in the EU

Abstract

Despite the EU’s complex institutional set-up and the remarkable enlargement to as many as 28 Member States, climate change emerged as a new policy area in which tangible results have been achieved. Greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by 24% compared to 1990 while the EU economy has continued to expand and become one of the most energy efficient in the world. Ambitious decisions have recently been made to accelerate this downward trend of emissions while continuing the upward path of economic and social prosperity, and to reach climate- neutrality by 2050. Based on solid internal preparations, Europe has shown itself to be a trusted partner in the international climate negotiations. It developed a strong policy architecture at the European level that complements actions taken at national, regional and local levels. It prepares its policies through thorough analysis and consultation with all relevant stakeholders. As such, this architecture can also serve as a benchmark for other countries faced with the need to reduce emissions while addressing issues of fairness between regions, preserving the competitiveness of industry, and building public support through transparency and proactive engagement with stakeholders.