During the first Environment Council environment and climate ministers had an exchange of views on the European Green Deal, especially on the concrete steps and measures needed to be taken so that the EU reaches its climate neutrality objective by 2050. Majority of Member States welcomed the European Green Deal. Many Member States emphasized that urgent actions and further measures are necessary to be introduced for fighting climate change, for which the Green Deal provides an appropriate framework. Several ministers stressed the importance of strengthening the EU leading role in the run up to COP26 climate conference.
The Council adopted the EU's submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on the long-term low greenhouse gas emission development strategy of the EU and its member states. The EU and its member states are fully committed to implementation of the Paris Agreement and its long-term goals, and the climate neutrality objective of the EU.
The ministers have adopted the Council Conclusions on Ambient Air Quality. The „Conclusions” aims not only to establish the future ambient air quality policy of the EU, but also to provide direction to the Commission in the preparation of the air quality legislation.
The ministers exchanged their views on the Greening of the European Semester. Most Member States supported the greening process; nevertheless, they agreed that the focus of the Semester should remain on the macro economical features.
The Commission presented its proposal on a European Climate Law and on a Just Transition Mechanism under the European Green Deal, and its communication on the European Green Deal Investment Plan. Ministers had the possibility to express their first thoughts on the new Climate Law. Ministers emphasized the importance of access to EU support mechanism and financial tools and of just transition to climate neutrality and supported the establishment of Just Transition Fund.
