Question 17 - 700-245 discussion

The European Green Deal is a comprehensive policy initiative launched by the European Commission in December 2019, with the objective of making the European Union (EU) the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. It serves as the roadmap for transforming the EU's economy and society to become more sustainable by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, decoupling economic growth from resource use, and ensuring a just transition for all citizens. The deal's ambitious goals are aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise.

Key components of the European Green Deal include:

Climate Action: The EU aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. This is considered a significant step toward reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Clean Energy Transition: The Deal encourages the adoption of renewable energy, improvement in energy efficiency, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Circular Economy: The European Green Deal promotes the concept of a circular economy, where resources are reused, recycled, and waste is minimized.

Biodiversity Conservation: It also emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, aiming to restore degraded ecosystems, reduce pollution, and enhance the sustainable management of natural resources.

Sustainable Agriculture and Food: Through initiatives like the Farm to Fork Strategy, the EU is striving to ensure a more sustainable food system by reducing the environmental and climate impact of agriculture.

The European Green Deal is supported by legislative packages such as the 'Fit for 55' proposals, which include laws and regulations that guide EU member states in achieving their climate goals. These laws touch upon sectors like energy, transportation, industry, and agriculture.

Environmental Sustainability References:

European Commission. (2019). The European Green Deal. Retrieved from: https://ec.europa.eu/green-deal

European Environment Agency. (2020). The European Green Deal: Success Factors and Challenges.

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). (2020). The Role of the European Green Deal in Climate Action.