The European Commission (EC) has presented a proposal for the European Union to ratify the Paris Agreement, the world’s first universal, legally binding deal to tackle climate change.
The Commission’s proposal comes weeks after the EU and 174 countries signed the landmark agreement at a ceremony.
The proposal to ratify the Paris Agreement on behalf of the EU is now with the European Parliament and Council for their approval.
EC proposal takes the form of a Council decision. The consent of European Parliament is required prior to the adoption of the decision by the Council. Once approved, the Council will designate the person(s) who will deposit the ratification instrument, on behalf of the European Union, to the United Nations Secretary- General, EC’s press release reads.
Miguel Arias Cañete , EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy, said: “After Paris, the EU is doing its homework. We are determined to maintain the momentum and spirit of Paris and ensure the early ratification – and the swift implementation – of this historic agreement. Today’s proposal demonstrates our continued commitment to lead the global clean energy transition and build a modern, sustainable and more climate-friendly economy. I am confident that the European Parliament, Council and Member States will complete the respective ratification procedures promptly.”
In parallel, the EU Member States will ratify the Paris Agreement individually, in accordance with their national parliamentary processes, EC informed.
The Paris Agreement, adopted on December 12, 2015, sets out a long-term emissions reduction goal of keeping the global temperature increase well below 2°C while pursuing efforts to limit the rise to 1.5°C.