Denmark on its way to fulfilling climate goals

Greenhouse gas emissions cut by almost 40 percent compared to 1990

Green cars, wind turbines and sustainable awareness are all helping Denmark on its way to fulfil one of the world's most ambitious climate goals: to be completely independent of fossil fuels by 2050.

According to the annual green transition report from the Energy and Climate Ministry, Denmark is close to reaching its goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent in 2020 compared to 1990.

“The figures prove the political climate goals actually work,” Rasmus Helveg Petersen, the climate and energy minister, said in a press release.

“The new figures show the target is within reach and that Denmark is well on its way to a fossil-free energy system. The 40 percent target is an important stepping stone, but the journey is far from over.”

READ MORE: EU agrees on climate targets

Higher emissions quotas
Petersen underlined there is still much to be done before the Danes can complete their target of becoming completely independent from fossil fuels by 2050 and also have reduced our greenhouse gas emissions by 80-95 percent compared to 1990 levels.

The report showed that wind turbines, greener cars and a higher carbon emissions quotas have proven essential to reducing emissions, and Petersen wants that trend to continue.

“We must raise the price of CO2 so that green solutions become even more attractive," Petersen said.

"The government is working hard for an ambitious EU climate goal for 2030 and a reformed and strengthened quota-trading system in the EU.”

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