The European Union remains largely on track to meet its targets for net reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, according to the latest annual review of the EU’s progress in meeting its energy and climate targets published today by the European Environment Agency. Total net greenhouse gas emissions in the EU fell by a further 2.5% in 2024, according to estimates included in the Trends and Projections report.
The latest data shows that collectively, EU member states expect to achieve a net emissions reduction of 54% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, which is just below the 55% reduction target, provided that EU member states fully implement current and planned policies and measures.
The EEA’s Trends and Projections Report states that in 2024, EU net greenhouse gas emissions (as defined in the 2030 target of the EU climate law) have fallen by 37% compared to 1990 levels. If we focus on EU net greenhouse gas emissions, therefore excluding emissions from international air and shipping, the overall reduction exceeds 39%.
As in recent years, the largest reductions in 2024 took place in the energy supply sector. Year-on-year reductions in other sectors such as agriculture, construction and waste were more limited, while emissions even increased slightly in industry and in domestic and international transport.
The report notes several developments that will require attention in the coming years to maintain progress. These include a year-on-year decline in electric vehicle sales in 2024, stagnant GHG emissions reductions in some sectors and member states, and a long-term negative trend in carbon sequestration of EU forests and soils. Together, these trends all highlight the need to maintain strong focus and investment in climate action.
The energy transition well underway
Although much remains to be done, Europe’s shift away from fossil fuel energy sources is well underway, the report says. The overall reduction in emissions since 1990 is mainly due to the energy transition. The EU has managed to significantly reduce the use of the most emitting fuels, such as coal and oil, while accelerating the development of renewable energy.
The EU has set a common target of achieving at least 42.5% renewable energy by 2030 and further reducing energy consumption. The path that separates us from these objectives remains considerable, indicates the report. To meet the renewable energy target by 2030, annual renewable energy capacity additions must more than double the averages of the previous five years. For final energy consumption, annual reductions must also more than double.
These ambitions are achievable but will require full and broad implementation of legislation as well as maximum efforts to increase the enablers of the transition. Technologies such as heat pumps and electric vehicles play a crucial role here, as they can help reduce emissions and final energy consumption compared to fossil alternatives.
Progress to 2030 and beyond
The report notes several developments that will require attention in the coming years to maintain progress. These include a year-on-year decline in electric vehicle sales in 2024, stagnant GHG emissions reductions in some sectors and member states, and a long-term negative trend in carbon sequestration of EU forests and soils. Together, these trends all highlight the need to maintain strong focus and investment in climate action.
This report shows that the foundations for this progress are in place: recent years have seen a rapid acceleration in emissions reductions and the emergence of numerous technological and policy solutions. However, it also highlights the scale of the remaining challenge, in particular the need to strengthen more resilient carbon sinks, accelerate the decarbonisation of transport and ensure implementation of measures at national level.
Every tonne of emissions avoided reduces future risks and costs. Each renewable installation, building renovation or electric vehicle deployed represents a step towards a cleaner, more energy independent and more resilient Europe.
About the report
The EEA Europe Trends and Projections report explores historical trends, recent progress and projected future progress in mitigating climate change through reduced greenhouse gas emissions, gains in renewable energy and improved energy efficiency. It is based on data reported by the 27 EU Member States, five EEA member countries and nine Energy Community contracting parties.
With this package, the EEA supports the European Commission’s assessment of progress towards the EU’s climate and energy targets. In its next report on progress on climate action, the Commission will use the national energy and climate plans recently submitted by Member States as an additional source of information.
The EEA also today published its latest EEA Briefing Paper outlining the progress and challenges of European climate adaptation policies and actions. Both are published alongside the European Commission’s 2025 State of the Energy Union and Climate Action report.
The EEA climate-energy package
Updated climate and energy indicators
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Originally published in The European Times.
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