Global Energy Force Inc

EU leads Kyoto 'carbon revolution'
The Kyoto protocol, now finally in force, is designed to cut greenhouse gas emissions by making the polluter start paying for climate change.

The pollutants in question are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, nitrous oxide from vehicle exhausts, and some types of man-made gas used in industry. The polluters are the countries which emit them into the atmosphere.

Reducing emissions from transport
Transport is responsible for around a quarter of EU greenhouse gas emissions making it the second biggest greenhouse gas emitting sector after energy. Road transport alone contributes about one-fifth of the EU's total emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas. While emissions from other sectors are generally falling, those from transport have increased 36% since 1990. The EU has policies in place to reduce emissions from a range of modes of transport, such as including aviation in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and CO2 emissions targets for cars.

What is the EU doing on climate change?
Combating climate change is a top priority for the EU. Europe is working hard to cut its greenhouse gas emissions substantially while encouraging other nations and regions to do likewise. At the same time, the EU is developing a strategy for adapting to the impacts of climate change that can no longer be prevented. Reining in climate change carries a cost, but doing nothing will be far more expensive in the long run. Moreover, investing in the green technologies that cut emissions will also create jobs and boost the economy.