EU advances towards 2030 climate targets with continued emissions cuts

EU Advances Toward 2030 Climate Targets

The European Commission’s 2025 Climate Action Progress Report confirms that the EU reduced greenhouse gas emissions again in 2024, keeping the region on a steady path toward its 2030 climate objectives. Clean energy expansion, stronger policies, and increased climate-related investments continue to drive this progress.

Emission Reductions and Economic Growth

According to the report, the EU achieved a 2.5% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 compared to 2023. This progress supports the goal of cutting emissions by 55% by 2030 relative to 1990 levels, assuming all planned and current measures are fully implemented across Member States with consistent investment flows.

“Since 1990, the EU has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 37%—or 39% excluding international aviation and shipping—while its economy expanded by 71%.”

Sectoral Contributions to Emission Cuts

Multiple sectors supported the reduction. The energy sector remained the primary contributor, with renewable sources becoming the largest share of electricity generation. Agriculture and land use, including forestry (LULUCF), also aided emissions cuts. However, emissions in transport, particularly aviation and maritime, continued to rise.

Key Drivers of Progress

Outlook to 2030

The EU’s progress in 2024 demonstrates tangible advancement toward the 2030 climate targets, though maintaining momentum will depend on consistent policy enforcement and further investment in sustainable transitions.

Author’s summary: The EU sustained emission reductions in 2024 through renewable energy expansion and policy action, keeping it on course to meet its 2030 climate goals.

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European Commission European Commission — 2025-11-07

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