European Commission registers 'Save the Planet' citizens' initiative

The organisers of this initiative urge the commission to enhance the Fit for 55 Package and the EU carbon pricing system. Key proposals include a faster phase-out of free allowances and the implementation of an uncapped carbon price to meet emission reduction targets. Additionally, they advocate for redistributing a substantial portion of carbon pricing revenues to low-income households, thereby strengthening the EU's Social Climate Fund. The initiative also promotes the creation of a ‘Climate Club’ where participating countries adopt strong carbon pricing measures, with a focus on redistributing revenues to support low-income households, the commission said in a press release.

The decision to register the initiative is purely legal and does not indicate the commission's final stance on the proposals or the potential actions it may take if the initiative gains sufficient support. The registration confirms that the initiative meets the formal conditions set out in the relevant legislation, making it legally admissible. However, the commission has not yet analysed the substance of the proposals.

Following the registration, the organisers have six months to begin collecting signatures. If the initiative garners one million statements of support within one year, with minimum numbers reached in at least seven different member states, the commission will be obligated to respond. The commission will then decide whether or not to take action based on the request and will be required to explain its reasoning.

If successful, this initiative could lead to significant changes in how the EU approaches carbon pricing and climate action, potentially shifting the economic burden from labour to greenhouse gas emissions and providing financial support to those most affected by these changes. The proposal aims to create a more equitable and effective system for reducing emissions and combating climate change.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)