EU GHG emissions lowest in 23 years

May 31, 2013 | By Barbara Vergetis Lundin

Greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3.3 percent in the European Union (EU) in 2011 to the lowest level since 1990, according to the European Environment Agency (EEA). The EU's total greenhouse gas emissions in 2011 were 18.4 percent below 1990 levels, according to the EU greenhouse gas inventory.

The 2011 emissions decrease was largely due to a milder winter in 2011 compared to 2010, which led to a lower demand for heating.

"The greenhouse gas emissions cut in 2011 is good news, however, it was largely due to a warmer winter. Nonetheless, the EU is making clear progress towards its emission targets," Jacqueline McGlade, EEA executive director, said. "There was an increase in consumption of more carbon-intensive fuels such as coal, while hydroelectricity production and gas consumption decreased. If Europe is to achieve the transition towards a low-carbon society, it will need sustained investment in technology and innovation."Almost two-thirds of the emissions reduction in 2011 came from the U.K., France and Germany with the largest increases in the absolute volume of emissions occurring in Romania, Bulgaria and Spain. Nuclear power's contribution also declined in the EU in 2011 compared to 2010, mainly due to closure of power plants in Germany.

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http://www.fierceenergy.com/story/eu-ghg-emissions-lowest-23-years/2013-05-31