Europe targets emissions

The European Commission this week announced a package of targets and measures aimed at cutting EU emissions of greenhouse gases by at least 20 per cent by 2020. The announcement also confirms a specific 10 per cent target for biofuels.

Targets will be increased to 30 per cent when a new UN global climate change agreement is reached.

The measures are intended to increase the use of renewable energy in each country and will set legally enforceable targets for governments to achieve them. Commission president, José Manuel Barroso, said the proposals would provide a unique business opportunity for thousands of European companies.

A biofuels target of 10 per cent has been for each member state to ensure consistency in transport fuel specifications and availability. To counter concerns about the sustainability of biofuel production, the Commission has also set out criteria including ensuring biofuels sold in the EU have emission savings of at least 35 per cent compared with fossil fuels.