The Green Deal, the EU’s largest project in the current legislative period, aimed to make companies and consumers pay for environmental pollution. However, the plan has veered out of the EU’s control, leading to increased costs for individuals and businesses. When EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen introduced the Green Deal in 2019, promises of innovation and benefits were not enough to prevent resistance and protests from farmers and industry representatives.
The project faced challenges in achieving the targets set by the European Climate Law, such as climate neutrality by 2050 and a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030. Conflicts emerged over various aspects of the Green Deal, including requirements for agriculture, industry, and transportation. The decision to expand emissions trading and introduce a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism was met with criticism for its bureaucratic nature and cost implications. Despite efforts to support households with low purchasing power through a climate and social fund, concerns persist about the impact on everyday life and the competitiveness of European companies.
The upcoming legislative period is likely to see continued debate and challenges related to the Green Deal and the European Climate Law. The Greens, who were initially seen as winners in the 2019 EU elections, may face backlash in the upcoming elections due to their association with a complex and costly project that raises questions about its effectiveness and implications for Europe’s economic competitiveness compared to other global players like China and the USA.
