Halving EU emissions by 2030 is affordable, says Britain

Cutting the European Union's greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent from 1990 levels by 2030 would reduce economic growth by a fraction of a percent, Britain's minister for energy and climate change said on the 21 November 2013.

The EU is expected to lead the way in outlining binding environment and energy targets for 2030, helping to frame a new global treaty to fight climate change.

The EU has already nearly met a target to cut 1990-level emissions by 20% by 2020, as a result of lower energy demand following a recession and a shift towards green power, such as solar and wind.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Without strong German leadership, the adoption of an ambitious renewable energy policy across Europe will be impossible http://www.europeansources.info/record/without-strong-german-leadership-the-adoption-of-an-ambitious-renewable-energy-policy-across-europe-will-be-impossible/

EurActiv, 10.10.13: Hedegaard: More 2030 climate targets would be 'wise' http://www.euractiv.com/energy/hedegaard-2030-climate-targets-w-news-530979

ESO: Background Information: Parliament fails to approve ambitious 2030 renewables target http://www.europeansources.info/record/parliament-fails-to-approve-ambitious-2030-renewables-target/

ESO: Background information: Debate rages as Brussels fires starting gun on 2030 energy strategy http://www.europeansources.info/record/debate-rages-as-brussels-fires-starting-gun-on-2030-energy-strategy/

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