Brussels proposes climate resilience law

Brussels unveiled a proposed law on Tuesday aimed at improving the European Union's ability to adapt to climate change. This "resilience regulation" would require member states to create national adaptation plans by 2030, focusing on measures to reduce risks from climate impacts.

EU lacks adaptation strategy

While the EU has a binding strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions, it previously had no formal plan for adapting to climate change. The European Commission now aims to fill this gap with a framework that sets common goals for limiting warming to 2 degrees Celsius by 2050 and 3 degrees by 2100 compared to pre-industrial times.

National plans must include specific actions

The proposed plans must cover food security, flood prevention, building renovations, and land planning that considers future climate conditions. They also need to include funding details for these measures. However, critics say the proposal lacks clarity and ambition, leaving key actions undefined.

NGOs criticize lack of concrete solutions

Climate advocates expressed disappointment, noting the proposal falls short of what was possible. Oxfam's Robin Elh pointed out that important measures, like protections for workers during heatwaves and building insulation standards, were excluded. The regulation promotes nature-based solutions but does not make them mandatory.

No dedicated funding for climate adaptation

The regulation does not include a specific fund for climate adaptation. Instead, expenses must be included in the EU's 2028-2032 budget. A proposed tax on oil and gas profits to fund such a fund was previously supported by some EU members but is not included in the current proposal.

Law still needs approval and faces delays

The regulation must be approved by the European Parliament and the European Council, a process that could take two more years. Critics argue this delay is problematic, given the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters, such as those seen this summer.