The European Commission is set to unveil a new EU climate resilience framework later this year. This significant initiative aims to enhance the European Union’s readiness and adaptation capabilities against the worsening impacts of climate change. Its development follows a challenging summer marked by widespread forest fires and unprecedented extreme temperatures across the continent.
Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, the European Commission’s Climate Spokesperson, highlighted the urgency of these efforts. She stated that crucial policies are being prepared to help Europe confront and adapt to persistent climate phenomena. “These unfortunately will not disappear,” she remarked during a press briefing.
Moreover, Itkonen emphasized that preparations for this framework began well before the summer’s incidents. Scientists have clearly indicated for years that such measures are essential. The Commission is specifically designing a new EU climate resilience framework and risk management plan. This will encompass both legislative and non-legislative actions to improve prevention, preparation, and planning against escalating climate risks.
Meanwhile, discussions on ensuring effective financial strategies are also underway. Itkonen stressed the importance of “well-targeted” investments. These aim to minimize future financial burdens, as Europe must adjust to new climate realities.
Separately, Spain has put forward a proposal to the EU. It suggests taxing the profits of oil and gas companies. The funds generated would then finance climate adaptation measures, particularly after recent severe droughts and widespread wildfires across Europe. This proposal was formally sent by Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition to Wopke Hoekstra, the European Climate Commissioner.
However, the Commission maintains a consistent position on national taxation powers. Louise Bogey, the Taxation Spokesperson, reiterated that taxing extraordinary profits remains a national competence. Member States can implement such measures according to their own laws. “These actions must always respect European legislation,” she added. Therefore, the Commission will respect the decisions made by individual Member States in this area.
