Brussels – Greenpeace EU released a new legal analysis today, stating that an EU ban on new oil, gas, and coal projects is not only possible but necessary. As global temperatures surpass 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels for the first time in 2024, the urgency to combat the climate crisis intensifies.
Fossil fuels are the leading cause of the climate crisis, responsible for more than 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of CO2 emissions. Governments around the world are increasingly recognizing the need to phase out fossil fuels. The International Energy Agency and the International Institute for Sustainable Development both stress that halting new fossil fuel projects is crucial to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and preventing the worst effects of climate change.
Thomas Gelin, Greenpeace EU climate campaigner, emphasized, “Fossil fuels are the biggest driver of climate breakdown, yet the EU and national governments continue to approve new drilling, pipelines, and import terminals. If you’re trying to quit smoking, you must stop buying new cigarettes. The EU must commit to a future without oil, gas, and coal to ensure a safe climate, clean air and water, and affordable energy for everyone. It’s time to ban new projects that fuel this crisis.”
The legal analysis concludes that the EU has the authority to impose a ban on new fossil fuel projects within its borders. It argues that such a ban is essential for the EU to meet its climate and human rights obligations and that this action can be taken collectively as part of the EU’s broader response to the climate emergency. The analysis comes as the EU prepares to present its updated “nationally determined contribution” under the Paris climate agreement, aimed at limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
For fossil gas alone, new projects in the EU could cost up to €84.1 billion, with additional emissions equivalent to almost 300 coal-fired power plants. This would further strain European governments’ budgets and move the region further from its climate targets, according to calculations from Global Energy Monitor.
Greenpeace, a global campaigning network with over three million supporters, works to change attitudes and behaviors to protect the environment and promote peace. It does not accept donations from governments, the EU, businesses, or political parties.
In addition, Greenpeace EU now offers a dedicated WhatsApp channel for journalists, providing easy access to press releases, comments on EU affairs, and multimedia content such as photos, videos, and audio clips. Journalists can sign up to receive notifications and stay updated on the latest news from Greenpeace EU.
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