Despite progress toward its 2030 climate goal of a 55% reduction in emissions compared to 1990 levels, the European Union (EU) is falling short on several other green targets, according to the annual report from the European Environment Agency (EEA). While the EU has consistently monitored environmental action since adopting its first program in 1973, the latest report provides a mixed assessment.

The EU's environmental action plan comprises eight overarching targets, evaluated from "very likely" to "very unlikely." The report highlights the need for urgent actions by member states to align with the EU's environment and climate ambitions by 2030. The targets require the full implementation of current laws, increased investment in future-proof technologies, and the integration of sustainability into all policies.

The EU faces challenges in the carbon removal domain, specifically within land use, land-use change, and forestry (LULUCF). The target of sequestering an additional 310 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent is projected to fall short by 50 million tonnes. Factors contributing to this shortfall include increased wood harvest and lower carbon sequestration by aging forests in some member states.

Regarding climate change mitigation, the EU is on track to achieve the target of reducing emissions by 55% compared to 1990 levels. However, achieving energy-saving metrics, such as the energy efficiency target and the goal for 45% renewable energy by 2030, appears "very unlikely" and "unlikely but uncertain," respectively. The EEA emphasizes the need for a profound transformation of the European energy system within the decade to meet the renewable energy target.

The report notes insufficient progress in climate adaptation and circular economy goals. Adaptation goals, aimed at minimizing the impact of severe weather events and droughts, are considered "unlikely but uncertain." Circular economy targets, focused on reducing material use and waste significantly, face challenges due to continued economic growth and consumption patterns.

Overall, the EU's environmental footprint has grown by 4% since 2013, and the reduction of citizens' consumption impact is deemed "very unlikely." However, the report acknowledges the growth of the green economy, with green industries contributing 2.5% to the EU's GDP in 2020, particularly in areas like renewables, energy efficiency, and waste management.

The EEA calls for a reevaluation of strategies to ensure the EU meets its environmental and climate goals by 2030, emphasizing the urgency of stronger actions and investments.