Campaigners take EU to court over weak climate targets

Environmental groups are suing the EU, arguing that its 2030 climate targets for key sectors, including agriculture and transport, are insufficient to meet global climate goals.

Isabella Kaminski reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• The lawsuit challenges the EU's emission limits for sectors responsible for over half of its greenhouse gas emissions.
• The plaintiffs claim these targets are not aligned with the best available science or the Paris agreement’s 1.5C warming limit.
• The case has been fast-tracked, with an oral hearing expected in 2025.

Key quote:

“States are obliged to adopt science-based emissions targets consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5C.”

— Gerry Liston, senior lawyer with GLAN

Why this matters:

Weak climate targets could undermine global efforts to prevent severe climate change impacts. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for stronger environmental policies across Europe.

Related EHN coverage:

• EU’s new climate change plan will cause biodiversity loss and deforestation: Analysis
• How Europe’s wood pellet appetite worsens environmental racism in the US South
• Three-quarters of Paris Agreement pledges judged insufficient