The European Union is facing significant challenges in meeting its decarbonisation targets due to environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and the accelerating impacts of climate change, such as more frequent droughts, floods, and heatwaves.

Climate change effects are intensifying across Europe, with southern countries like Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy experiencing increased energy demands for cooling, potentially consuming up to 71% of the EU's total energy for this purpose.

Despite progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the EU's overall efforts remain insufficient, with ongoing environmental degradation and delays in achieving climate goals.

Portugal stands out as a leader in the EU's energy transition, with 73% of its energy consumption coming from renewable sources in 2023, largely due to early investments and expansion in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

Portugal has also made notable progress by closing coal-fired power stations in 2021, although it still faces challenges related to energy imports from coal-based sources, affecting its energy independence.

A report from the European Environment Agency highlights that climate change is leading to increased energy consumption for cooling in southern Europe, exacerbating water scarcity and heatwave risks.

Leena Yläh-Mononen, director of the European Environment Agency, emphasizes that the EU must not reduce its climate ambitions and has the necessary policies and tools to meet its sustainability goals if implemented effectively.

Several sectors, including the automotive industry and some member states, are calling for delays in climate targets and deadlines, citing concerns over industry competitiveness and the feasibility of rapid decarbonisation.

Yläh-Mononen stresses that immediate action based on scientific evidence is crucial, and the EU's current efforts, if properly executed, can shape future climate resilience.