EU predlaže usporavanje smanjenja emisija ugljika za poduzeća

The European Union has announced new proposals that would delay reductions in greenhouse gas emissions for businesses, marking a shift in its climate strategy. The plan, outlined by the European Commission, aims to ease the pace of emissions cuts by extending the period during which certain industries can receive emission allowances. These changes are part of a broader review of the EU’s climate policies, designed to align with long-term environmental goals while considering economic impacts. The revised rules would allow some industries to retain emission allowances until 2038, rather than being phased out by 2034 as originally planned. This extension applies to companies that demonstrate a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint through investment in clean technology and decarbonization projects. The proposal also suggests lowering the annual reduction rate of the emissions cap in the EU’s carbon trading system (ETS). Currently set at 4.3%, the rate would drop to 3.7% starting in 2031 and then to 1.7% beginning in 2036. Free emission allowances would continue until 2038, replacing the earlier plan to introduce a carbon border adjustment mechanism in 2034. The ETS, established in 2005, functions as the EU’s primary instrument for managing industrial emissions. Under the system, companies must purchase permits for each ton of CO₂ emitted, encouraging the adoption of greener technologies. Some firms receive these permits for free to maintain competitiveness against non-EU producers who do not face similar costs. The system also limits the total number of permits issued annually, ensuring that overall emissions decline over time. Critics argue that the ETS has had unintended consequences, such as contributing to higher energy prices. Italy, among other nations, has expressed concerns that the system imposes an effective tax on industry, making domestic production less competitive. The proposed changes aim to address these criticisms by offering greater flexibility to businesses while maintaining the overarching objective of achieving a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. In response to the new proposals, Polish officials have welcomed the move, viewing it as a step toward a more lenient regulatory environment. Climate Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska stated that the softened approach represents a “huge success” for Poland, though she emphasized that the country would continue advocating for even more relaxed measures. Conversely, environmental advocates have raised alarms, warning that the delayed reductions could undermine long-term climate targets. A German member of parliament, Michael Bloss, criticized the plans as potentially leading to “gigantic climate pollution,” with negative implications for future generations. The proposed changes will undergo further scrutiny before final approval. The European Commission estimates that the legislative process could span several months, requiring consensus among EU member states and parliamentary bodies. While the reforms reflect a balance between environmental ambition and economic considerations, the debate over how best to achieve sustainable growth continues to shape the EU’s climate agenda. As discussions progress, the outcome will likely influence the trajectory of global climate action in the coming years.