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The European Union’s new Green Deal chief, Maroš Šefčovič, has pledged to engage in “intensive” discussions with industry and voters regarding the bloc’s climate change measures. This comes in the wake of concerns raised by environmental groups about potential weakening of climate legislation in Brussels.
Šefčovič aims to strike a balance between the European Commission’s ambitious climate goals and supporting the continent’s industry to maintain its strong position in the global economy. He recently assumed the position of vice-president of the commission, succeeding Frans Timmermans, who stepped down to run in national elections.
The change in leadership is crucial as the EU finalizes and enforces its “Green Deal” laws aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050 across its 27 member states.
Resistance to Brussels’ climate laws has been observed from right-wing politicians, farmers, certain consumers, and industrial sectors. Concerns about compliance costs in the face of high inflation and staffing pressures have fueled this resistance.
Commission officials, speaking anonymously, note that Šefčovič has a closer rapport with industry than Timmermans. BusinessEurope, an EU-wide lobby group, appreciates the new chief’s focus on industry.
Climate activists, including Friends of the Earth and the Institute for European Environmental Policy, emphasize the importance of Šefčovič pressuring industry to reduce carbon emissions and safeguard the environment amidst a growing backlash against green legislation ahead of the upcoming EU elections in June.
Manon Dufour, head of climate think-tank E3G’s Brussels office, views negotiations on a contentious law for nature restoration in the autumn as a significant test for Šefčovič and his climate ambitions.
Concerns have been raised that Šefčovič’s appointment may prioritize industry concerns. While he has not previously appeared overly industry-friendly, it is noteworthy that the announcement of his role has been given an “industry spin.”
There are doubts about the implementation of directives on taxing heavily-polluting fuels and establishing sustainable food systems, according to EU diplomats and officials.
Another test for Šefčovič’s commitment will be whether the commission follows through on a plan to ban the use of cages on farms and shorten livestock journeys, following a petition by 1.4 million EU citizens. This proposal is part of the Green Deal.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has requested that the Dutch government nominate a successor for the climate portfolio. This individual will lead negotiations for the EU at the COP28 climate summit in December if the nomination is approved in time. Šefčovič will continue to hold the title of EU Green Deal vice-president until the end of his term.
Von der Leyen has also called for a more intensive dialogue with industry, forest owners, farmers, and citizens regarding Green Deal laws.
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