EU legislation to enhance the monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG)

The European Commission proposed on November 23, 2011 legislation to significantly enhance the monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions, in particular to meet new requirements arising from the package of EU climate and energy laws for the period 2013-2020. The EU and Member States already cooperate to monitor and report GHG emissions under the terms of a Decision adopted in 2004. They produce annual GHG inventories which are used to assess progress towards meeting Kyoto Protocol emission targets. They also gather and publish information on GHG projections and on their policies and measures to reduce emissions. The current rules are largely based on the requirements arising from the Kyoto Protocol. The proposed new Regulation enhances this monitoring and reporting mechanism in line with the requirements of the 2009 climate and energy package. It goes a step beyond Kyoto in providing greater transparency in the data and information provided and ensuring compliance with the EU's climate change commitments. The main objectives of the proposed revision are to: Facilitate further development of the innovative EU climate policy mix by addressing emissions from land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF), aviation and maritime transport, among other sectors, and by supporting adaptation to climate change; Help the EU and Member States keep track of progress towards meeting their emission targets for 2013-2020; Further improve the quality of data reported; Ensure that the EU an…