A growing unease is emerging in European political circles over how quickly climate action is being pursued and how air quality is being safeguarded. While the European Union has long led the world in environmental and climate policy, voices urging caution are gaining traction. Some even argue for softening or slowing certain measures, a stance echoed by Ursula von der Leyen, the president who championed the European Green Deal.
Recently, von der Leyen urged consideration of how much the European economy can bear under environmental adjustments. The remarks touched on agriculture and livestock sectors that span various policies, including limits on macrofarms and proposals to curb pesticide use by as much as 50 percent.
Across the union, farmer unions and agricultural groups, mobilizing millions, have voiced growing discontent. They warn that tighter rules threaten their income and livelihoods as regulatory initiatives intensify.
Agricultural protests in the Netherlands show the tangible impact on communities and local economies. The image above captures a moment from the field.
Von der Leyen’s plan was soon joined by French President Emmanuel Macron, who called for reindustrialization and a pause in environmental regulations. In his view, it is time to act—without piling on more rules—so as not to leave people behind along the way.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo also signaled support for a temporary halt in European climate legislation amid rising voices across the bloc. Brussels could slow its pace to reassess priorities.
“At some point, a decision must be made. Isn’t it time to do everything at once?” asked the prime minister on a Flemish broadcaster, highlighting the pressure states feel to balance action with practicality.
Madrid and Barcelona push for a more pragmatic approach
Several regions are calling for looser regulatory constraints on this issue. The eight-member Regional Air Quality Initiative, including Madrid and Catalonia, argues for a more flexible stance and realistic ceilings on pollution limits. Madrid and Barcelona are among the areas most affected by pollution and have faced warnings and penalties from authorities to reduce harmful emissions.
The Generalitat’s Climate Action Department expressed support for the Air Quality Directive under consideration but argued that the wording should reflect a more practical starting point. A flexible interpretation, they say, should respect the realities of weather and other environmental conditions while maintaining public health protections.
City leaders in this bloc urged the European Commission to set ambitious yet attainable thresholds, insisting that lowering limits should not be automatic. They advocate a future framework that accommodates practical flexibility without compromising safety.
Teresa Ribera on environmental relief
In this debate, Spain’s government has defended the existing structure. Ecological Transition Minister Teresa Ribera labeled the regional petition for greater ease in regulation as inappropriate given current pollution challenges.
The ministry contends that relaxing measures to cut pollution could endanger citizens. It notes that revising the Air Quality Directive remains a priority for Spain’s presidency of the Council of the European Union and should be handled with care to protect health.
Reports suggest that calls for a softer regulatory touch should be weighed against the broader goals of protecting air quality and public health across member states.
Contact information for the environment department is not provided here.