EU presents proposal for ratifying Paris climate agreement

The European Commission presented a proposal for the European Union (EU) to ratify the Paris climate agreement, the world's first universal, legally binding deal to tackle climate change on Friday.

In line with the 2030 climate and energy framework agreed by EU leaders in October 2014, the Commission intends to propose in the coming months the member state targets to reduce emissions in those sectors not covered by the Emissions Trading System (ETC), such as transport, agriculture and buildings.

The Commission would also propose how to integrate land use into the 2030 framework and a communication on low-carbon mobility.

The Commission said its proposals this summer, together with the revision of the ETS, would deliver the remainder of the EU's commitments under the Paris Agreement and are an integral part of Energy Union's ambitious and forward-looking climate policy.

Following the successful conclusion of the COP21 in Paris in December 2015, the Commission in March 2016 presented a full assessment of the Paris climate agreement, which would enter into force after it has been ratified by 55 countries, accounting for at least 55 percent of global emissions.

"Today's proposal demonstrates our continued commitment to lead the global clean energy transition and build a modern, sustainable and more climate-friendly economy. I am confident that the European Parliament, Council and member states will complete the respective ratification procedures promptly," said EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy Miguel Arias Canete.

The consent of European Parliament is required prior to the adoption of the decision by the Council. Once approved, the Council would designate persons who will deposit the ratification instrument, on behalf of the EU, to the United Nations Secretary General.

In parallel, the EU member states would ratify the Paris Agreement individually, in accordance with their national parliamentary processes. Endit