The EU recorded an 8% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching its lowest level in 60 years, according to analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, The Guardian reports.
The sharp decline in emissions is attributed to the increased use of cleaner electricity, with more than half of the reduction coming from renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The EU built record levels of solar panels and wind turbines in 2023, contributing to lower demand for electricity.
The EU’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas pollution by 55% by the end of the decade and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 necessitates faster reductions, according to the EU’s own climate advisers.
The advisory board outlined recommendations, including phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and expanding emissions pricing to include agriculture.
