Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe was appalled to see the obstructionist tactics used by Poland ahead of today’s meeting of Environment Ministers. While Poland seems intent on skirting its climate responsibilities, other EU countries were ready to support increased climate ambition by 2020 and to approve milestones for a cost effective emissions reductions pathway by 2050.
The outcome of today’s Environment Council shows the EU is failing to fix the floundering carbon market [1], to grasp the benefits of increased climate ambition and to respond to the progress made in the international climate negotiations.
“Poland has once again shown its true colours as a progress blocker,” said Wendel Trio, Director of CAN Europe. “Poland has further isolated itself from the rest of the EU, and its own citizens, who support more climate efforts. Ultimately, Poland may end up missing out on access to European funds to support low-carbon investments.”
Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe is calling on the Danish Presidency and EU Heads of State to raise this issue at the next EU Summit and take the necessary measures to increase Europe’s climate ambition and bring Poland in line.
Editors’ Notes:
Environment Council conclusions can be found here.
[1] In the second half of 2011, the carbon price lost 50% of its value.
