EU advances towards 2030 climate targets with continued emissions cuts

EU Advances Towards 2030 Climate Targets with Continued Emissions Cuts

The European Commission's 2025 Climate Action Progress Report highlights further emission reductions in 2024, keeping the EU on track to meet its 2030 climate goals. Progress is supported by an expansion of clean energy, reinforced policies, increased investments, and enhanced efforts in climate adaptation and global climate finance.

Emission Reductions in 2024

In 2024, the EU achieved a 2.5% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions compared to the previous year. This progress aligns with the target to reduce emissions by 55% from 1990 levels by 2030, assuming full implementation of current and planned policies by the EU and its Member States, supported by strong investment.

Historical Emission Trends

Since 1990, the EU has lowered its greenhouse gas emissions by over 37%, or 39% when excluding international aviation and shipping, while simultaneously expanding its economy by 71%.

Sectoral Contributions to Emission Reductions

The energy sector remains the largest contributor to emission cuts, with renewable energy becoming the primary source of electricity generation.
The agriculture and land use, land use change, and forestry (LULUCF) sectors have also played a role in lowering emissions.
Conversely, emissions from the transport sector, including domestic and international aviation and maritime transport, have continued to increase.

"The reduction in emissions was driven by efforts across various sectors. The energy sector remains the main driver, with renewables becoming the leading source of electricity production."

Author’s summary: The EU is steadily cutting emissions through clean energy and robust policies, maintaining its path to meet the ambitious 2030 climate targets despite rising transport emissions.

European Commission — 2025-11-07