Sweden Faces Significant Hurdles in Meeting EU's 2040 Climate Goals
Sweden faces challenges in achieving the EU's 2040 climate targets, according to experts.
Key Points
- • EU aims for 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
- • Maria Jernnäs warns of significant challenges for Sweden.
- • Key actions needed include expansion of renewables and energy efficiency.
- • Resistance to climate ambitions exists among certain EU countries.
Amidst the European Union's ambitious plans to achieve a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, Sweden is forewarned of potential challenges in reaching these targets. Climate policy researcher Maria Jernnäs from Linköping University asserts that while the EU's analysis suggests these goals are within reach if member states effectively implement previous 2030 targets, Sweden will need to undertake substantial measures to align with the objectives.
Key actions include rapidly expanding renewable energy resources, advancing energy efficiency across sectors, and enhancing carbon capture and storage technologies. Jernnäs highlighted the importance of strengthening natural carbon sinks, such as forests and soils, to support emission reductions. Without these initiatives, the task of meeting the EU's stringent climate goals appears daunting for Sweden.
Furthermore, resistance to increasing climate ambitions is prevalent in other EU nations, particularly Poland and the Czech Republic, which complicates the consensus on pathways to achieve climate objectives. As Sweden prepares to enhance its climate strategy, the need for coordinated action and increased commitments becomes increasingly critical.