Key facts
- The EU's proposed Climate Resilience Law asks governments to plan for a world 2C hotter by 2050 and 3C by 2100.
- National climate risk assessments will be required every five years starting in 2029.
- Climate-proofing plans must be drawn up by the end of 2030.
- The EU needs to invest around €70 billion annually by 2050 to adapt to a warmer world, currently spending €29 billion.
The European Commission has introduced its first-ever law aimed at enhancing the bloc's resilience to climate change, acknowledging that reducing emissions alone is no longer sufficient to combat the escalating impacts of global warming. The proposed Climate Resilience Law mandates that EU governments develop national plans to prepare for a world with higher temperatures, reflecting the latest UN projections that current policies may lead to warming of up to 2.8C by 2050. Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra emphasized the need for both forceful emissions cuts and robust preparation for the current trajectory of climate change. The legislation encourages governments to consider a 3C hotter scenario in their policies and investments, requiring national climate risk assessments every five years starting in 2029 and preparedness plans by the end of 2030. While some lawmakers supported clearer responsibilities, others criticized the proposal for lacking binding targets and sufficient resources. The Commission also highlighted the economic opportunities in climate-proofing technologies.