Peter Liese: China announces rather unambitious NDC / Bad days for global climate and for Europe’s competitiveness / Fast decision and pragmatism are needed before the COP in Belém

“These have been very bad days for the global climate and for Europe’s competitiveness,” said Peter Liese, spokesperson for climate policy for the biggest group in the European Parliament (EPP, Christian Democrats). On Tuesday, 23rd September, the UNFCCC parties were supposed to set their NDC for 2035. The environmental ministers of the EU were only able to agree on a letter of intent which does not classify as an NDC. Yesterday, China pledged that they will only reduce their emission by 7-10% in the next ten years. “While it is good that finally China comes with a reduction target, it is much lower than expected and unfortunately, the European Union is partly responsible for this. If Europe misses the deadline, those that argue for ambition in other parts of the world, have less support. I am really afraid that the international process will collapse and that would also be very bad for the European Union’s competitiveness as well,” said Liese.

Liese insisted that not only those that hesitate when it comes to ambitious climate targets like France and Poland are guilty for the failure of the EU climate policy. “I think many people focussed way too much on the figure of 90% for 2040 and didn’t invest enough in the 2035 target which is relevant for the international debate. I am afraid that in the end, the 90% may survive but rather as an empty envelope. Some member states argue for 10% flexibility and obviously only want to re-label their development aid as international climate policy. That’s why I think we need ambition and pragmatism. Maybe a figure slightly lower than 90%, for example, 88%, with a very limited used of high quality international credits are better than an empty 90%. In any case, we need to invest more in the NDC for 2035 and I really think, it must be at the upper end of the range: so rather 72,5% than 66%,” said Liese who insisted that this position is his personal position and the EPP group is still working on their group position.