Spopad v Svetu EU o sistemu emisijskih kvot, potem kompromis: Ocenjevanje vplivov uporabe na stavbe in promet

European Union leaders reached a compromise late Thursday night after a day of tense negotiations over the European emissions trading system (ETS), though they did not agree to delay the expansion of the carbon market to include buildings and transport, which was initially proposed for 2028. The final conclusions of the Council of the EU call on the European Commission to reassess the impacts of the expanded ETS2, particularly its structure and safeguard measures, while reaffirming the importance of the system in driving the energy transition and climate goals. The agreement reflects a delicate balance between member states pushing for adjustments to ease the economic burden of the green transition and those advocating for strict adherence to climate commitments. Italy, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, played a central role in pressing for revisions to the ETS2 framework, arguing that the current system could disproportionately affect households and businesses. However, northern European countries such as Germany, France, and Sweden opposed any delays or modifications that might weaken the ETS's effectiveness in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The final text emphasizes the need for a well-functioning, transparent, and predictable carbon market, with efforts to reduce price volatility and mitigate the impact on electricity bills. It also underscores the essential role of the ETS in guiding investments toward cleaner technologies through market-based pricing signals. While the document does not explicitly endorse temporary exemptions or deferrals, it opens the door for the Commission to evaluate potential adjustments to the ETS2 design. Italy’s push for flexibility extended beyond the ETS debate. Meloni raised the issue of fiscal rules during the summit, suggesting that rising energy prices should be considered an external factor affecting national budgets. This request found limited support, with Greece being the only country openly backing Rome’s stance. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated caution regarding public finances, highlighting the possible extension of state aid rules for the energy crisis as a short-term measure. The ETS2 expansion remains scheduled for 2028, covering sectors such as building heating and road transport. Despite the compromise, the Italian government has indicated it may explore temporary national derogations, similar to those granted to Spain and Portugal in 2023 to manage electricity costs. However, this remains an open possibility rather than a confirmed outcome of the summit. Meanwhile, tensions flared over border controls with Spain following the expiration of a temporary Schengen suspension imposed by Italy after the migrant influx at Ceuta. After discussions between Rome and Madrid, Italy agreed to extend the temporary checks for seven additional days, aligning them with Spain’s measures. Both sides pledged to work together in the coming week to develop alternative cooperation mechanisms. Immigration remained a key topic, with Italy, the Netherlands, and Denmark convening an informal group to address mass irregular arrivals, human trafficking networks, and the implementation of new EU migration regulations. The meeting included representatives from 18 countries and the European Commission, focusing on preventing large-scale illegal immigration and ensuring compliance with the new legal framework. Meloni emphasized the need for heightened vigilance at the EU’s external borders, stressing the importance of preventing irregular migration and associated security risks. Her approach highlights a broader strategy aimed at avoiding policies perceived as creating incentives for human traffickers, referencing concerns linked to the situation in Ceuta. The summit underscored the complex interplay between climate policy, economic stability, and migration management within the EU. While some compromises were reached, fundamental disagreements remain over the pace and scope of the green transition, reflecting the deep divisions among member states on how best to navigate the challenges of energy security and environmental sustainability.