Climate change mitigation: evidences from the European scenario

Abstract

The European Union (EU) member states fight climate change through the greenhouse gas emissions reduction (mitigation measures) and prepare for the unavoidable effects which have already been triggered (adaptation measures). By 2050, the EU aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 80%-95% compared with 1990 levels. New objectives up to 2030 provide for a 40% reduction of GHG emissions and an increase of 27% for renewables and energy efficiency. The aim of this work is twofold. Firstly, we present the inventory data of the greenhouse gas emissions, final energy consumption, share of renewable energy, ISO 14001, EMAS and ISO 50001 certifications in 2015 for the EU-28 member states. Then, we identify the current level achieved by the EU and by individual countries compared to the 2020 targets. Secondly, we find a correspondence between the increasing number of certified companies and the good results relating to the mitigation measures. The regulatory obligations and the growing awareness about climate change led companies to voluntarily adopting systems of environmental management and/or energy management, because they generate a series of benefits such as the improving of image return, revenues and levels of competitiveness.