Ireland faces a pivotal role as mediator in a major ideological dispute among EU member states over the future of the bloc's Emissions Trading System (ETS). The European Commission's review, due mid-July, will determine how the 20-year-old carbon pricing policy is reformed amidst industry pressure and differing national interests.
Four major European steel and chemical manufacturers, including ArcelorMittal and BASF, have urged an immediate halt to the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). They argue the climate policy is too costly and uncompetitive compared to global rivals, risking damage to Europe's manufacturing base.
The EU Commission's plan to link emissions trading relief for companies to investments in green transformation is criticized as a misguided approach. The author argues that companies need relief to remain competitive internationally and that current high energy prices make green investments economically challenging.
The EU Commission's plan to link emissions trading relief for companies to investments in green transformation is criticized as a misguided approach. Critics argue that companies need cost reductions to remain competitive internationally, and that forcing green investments, especially with high energy prices, could be economically counterproductive.
Poland's deputy climate minister, Krzysztof Bolesta, described the EU's pace of carbon emission cuts under the Emissions Trading System (ETS) as "insane," warning it could cripple industry. He called for a review of free pollution permits, ahead of the Commission's expected decision in July.
The German chemical industry is pressuring Chancellor Friedrich Merz to revise the EU's emissions trading system. VCI President Markus Steilemann warns that planned new requirements will significantly increase investment risks and harm the industry's competitiveness.
Ministers also asked to alter compensation rights and suspend emissions trading scheme amid Middle East warAirlines are lobbying the UK government to relax environmental and noise rules, modify passenger rights and cut taxes on flying, as they prepare for higher costs and a possible shortage of jet fuel because of the war in the Middle East.A list of policy requests submitted to ministers and the aviation regulator includes suspending the emissions trading scheme and relaxing limits on night flights, it has emerged. Continue reading...
