Good for the climate, good for the people and good for jobs

On Wednesday, the Committee of the Permanent Representatives approved the reform of European emissions trading system with a very clear majority. 23 states agreed. Belgium and Bulgaria abstained. Only two Member States reserve their final political decision for the final vote in the Council (Poland and Hungary). "I am very happy about this clear result and I assume that the vote in the Environment Committee tomorrow, Thursday, will be just as clear. The negotiators of all pro-European parties (EPP, Social Democrats, Renew and Greens) as well as the Left and the conservative ECR supported the compromise. Even if the parliamentary groups are not all completely united, I expect a clear majority," explained Peter Liese, rapporteur for the reform of the EU ETS. "It is the biggest climate protection law of all time and by 2030 we will save 25 times as much CO2 as with the controversial regulation on CO2 cars (ban on the internal combustion engine). Anyone who has a good idea and saves CO2 or brings corresponding products to the market, will benefit. We cannot and should not decide all the details in Brussels, but rather set no limits to the creativity of the 440 million Europeans," said Liese, who is also spokesperson for environmental policy of the largest group in the European Parliament (EPP, Christian Democrats).


 

“I am very happy about a balanced compromise in terms of the burden on the industry. It is very clear that all companies have to make an effort. Those who save CO2, will get a tailwind in the future, while those who want to continue operating old dirty plants, will feel the pressure. We give companies and citizens time to adapt. In contrast to the Commission proposal, the ambition will be reduced until the end of 2026, but then it will be increased," explained Peter Liese.