Environmental Goals of the European Union Fall into the "Hard to Achieve" Cycle

Authorities advocating for environmental protection excel in meetings, discussions, and projects but often lag in concrete actions with tangible results. The European Environment Agency (EEA) considers, in a report published yesterday, that it is "difficult" for the 27 member states to meet the European Union's (EU) climate ambitions by 2030, especially regarding energy consumption and organic farming. "According to the EEA analysis, it is possible that the EU will not achieve most of its objectives by 2030," the agency summarized in a statement. For example, according to the EEA, it is "very unlikely" that the EU will manage to decrease its energy consumption to the proposed extent (992.5 million tons of oil equivalent). To achieve this goal by "2030, the average annual reduction rate observed in the last ten years will need to be three times faster." Additionally, reaching a share of 42.5% of renewable energy in the overall consumption is considered "unlikely." On the other hand, the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% is "undoubtedly likely" to be achieved by 2030, noted the EEA. The report, aiming to be updated annually, assesses the progress made by member countries towards the 28 objectives of the EU's Environmental Action Program, covering the period 2021-2030. According to the text, it is "very unlikely" that 25% of agricultural land will be cultivated according to organic farming criteria. "To accelerate progress, member states must enforce existing laws more, take additional measures, and integrate climate and the environment into other policy areas," emphasized the institution. However, there is good news: it is "very likely" that the EU will succeed in reducing the number of premature deaths associated with air pollution by 55%.