The European Commission has unveiled details of its ambitious plan to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in half by 2030, in comparison to 1990 levels.

In her first state of the union address this week in Brussels, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the EU had set a new goal to reduce GHG emissions by at least 55% by 2030, which is significantly higher than the current target of 40%.

“We are doing everything in our power to keep the promise that we made to Europeans - make Europe the first climate-neutral continent in the world by 2050. Today marks a major milestone in this journey,” von der Leyen said.

CO2 emissions from the burning of fossil fuels are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU

“With the new target to cut EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, we will lead the way to a cleaner planet and a green recovery.

"Europe will emerge stronger from the coronavirus pandemic by investing in a resource-efficient circular economy, promoting innovation in clean technology and creating green jobs,” she added.

Renewables

At the heart of the European Commission’s plan to reduce GHG emissions are some big changes to Europe’s energy system.

The European Commission is targeting a major increase in renewable and clean energy production across the continent.

“CO2 emissions from the burning of fossil fuels are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU.

"Together with other gas emissions from the energy system, they are responsible for just over 75% of EU greenhouse gas emissions. This underlines the energy system's central role in the transition to a climate neutral economy.

"Buildings and transport are, alongside industry, the main energy users and source of emissions. Decarbonising both energy supply and demand is key to achieving climate neutrality,” said the European Commission president.