Poland has not established a position on the 2040 climate target yet. It will be formed after the European Commission unveils its emissions reduction proposal, according to Deputy Climate Minister Urszula Zielińska on Thursday. She noted that negotiations will not commence until the EC makes its announcement.
Zielińska outlined Poland’s stance on the 2040 targets during a meeting of the European Union Committee.
She reminded listeners that two EU-wide goals exist at present: a 55 percent cut in CO2 by 2030 and a mission to reach climate neutrality by 2050. She stressed that Poland has not fixed a 2040 target and that the position will be shaped after the EC’s proposal is published.
We anticipate the EC announcement around February 6. Within roughly a month, after broad consultations including social dialogue, Poland will craft and present its position on the Commission’s communication. The plan is not to set a single rigid target; instead, a range is expected, likely around the 90 to 95 percent mark, possibly starting at about 80 percent.
– the Deputy Minister of Climate commented.
She underscored that the EC’s announcement will mark the start of a debate on the 2040 target, a process expected to run for more than a year.
During the informal Environment Council in Brussels, Poland stressed the aim of pursuing an ambitious climate policy that respects the country’s capacity to cut emissions while ensuring social fairness and safeguarding economic interests. It was highlighted that Poland faces higher energy poverty levels than the European average and remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, which necessitates appropriate support.
– Zielińska reported.
The negotiations begin
She noted that talks on the 2040 climate target have only started.
Lawmakers from PiS pressed Zielińska about remarks made in mid-January. At an informal EU environment ministers gathering in Brussels, Zielińska indicated support for a 90 percent emission reduction by 2040. Climate Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska later clarified that Zielińska’s statement was not an official government position, but rather an expression of openness during negotiations.
Marcin Przydacz (PiS) asked about the government’s guidance for Zielińska’s Brussels trip and whether the Ministry of Climate had precise calculations on the cost of a 90 percent CO2 cut by 2040. Zielińska replied that detailed calculations are not yet ready. She added that the previous government did not update the National Energy and Climate Plan or draft a long-term low-emissions strategy to set the 2050 ambition. If both plans are prepared, Poland’s stance on the climate target could be refined, and cost estimates would be easier to calculate. The Ministry of Climate has begun analyses in updating the National Energy and Climate Plan.
She mentioned that government instructions emphasize intensifying efforts to adapt to climate risks and changes.
The committee planned to discuss further energy and environmental issues, but the meeting was adjourned due to insufficient member attendance.
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mly/PAP