EU’s First Climate Chief: Green Backsliding Hurts Europe

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In a stark warning that resonates deeply amidst the ongoing climate crisis, Connie Hedegaard, the EU’s first climate commissioner, has expressed her concern over the dangerous trend of green backsliding in Europe. Once hailed as a unifying force, climate action is now at risk as the continent grapples with escalating disasters and a political landscape increasingly dominated by populism.

Reflecting on her tenure as the head of the European Commission’s climate division from 2010 to 2014, Hedegaard noted that climate change was once a source of pride for Europe. She recalls a time when the EU’s climate policies were not just a regulatory burden but a point of collective pride. However, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, and public trust in decision-makers eroding, Hedegaard fears that Europe is losing its way.

“When people lose their homes or their families to extreme weather, they don’t just suffer loss, they also lose trust in decision-makers,” she commented during a recent organic farming summit. “That mistrust is what feeds polarization.” This sentiment is echoed across various sectors, as citizens increasingly question the effectiveness of their leaders in combating climate change.

Hedegaard’s concerns are not unfounded. The last year has witnessed a surge in extreme weather events across Europe, from devastating floods in Spain to raging wildfires in Cyprus and southern France. The European Environment Agency estimates that climate-related disasters have cost Europe nearly half a trillion euros over the past four decades. The intensity of these events has left communities grappling with not only financial losses but also the long-term implications of climate inaction.

Reflecting on the role of major corporations in this narrative, Hedegaard did not hold back in her criticisms. She pointed to BP, once proudly branding itself as ‘Beyond Petroleum’, which has since scaled back its renewable energy investments. “Now they are backtracking. They should be ashamed of themselves,” she stated, highlighting the contradiction between corporate pledges and actions. This shift by industry giants not only undermines public trust but also stalls the momentum needed for meaningful climate action.

The political landscape has also shifted dramatically, particularly following the recent European elections, where far-right parties made significant gains. These parties capitalised on public dissatisfaction stemming from rising inflation and stringent environmental regulations, creating a perfect storm for regressive policies. As a result, Ursula von der Leyen’s ambitious Green Deal has become a political target, with national governments lobbying for more lenient targets and industry pushing back against the pace of change.

Hedegaard argues that treating the Green Deal as a burden during tough economic times is not just a mistake; it is a dangerous miscalculation. “For Europe, climate and security are interlinked,” she asserted. “I think most people can see it when they look at our energy dependency and the need for transformation of our energy systems.” The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis have underscored the urgency of transitioning to more sustainable energy sources, making climate action a matter of national security.

Climate Realities: A Wake-Up Call

The realities of climate change are stark and undeniable. From the catastrophic floods in Spain to the unprecedented heatwaves in Scandinavia that left hospitals overwhelmed, these events serve as a clarion call for action. The record-breaking temperatures of July not only disrupted daily life but also drove wildlife, such as reindeer, into urban areas in search of shade. These are not isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a larger crisis that demands immediate attention and action.

Hedegaard is no stranger to the political battles surrounding climate policy. With a background as a Danish minister and a long-standing presence in the EU, her experience lends weight to her words. She is recognised for her candid and no-nonsense approach, honed during her earlier career as a journalist. This directness is particularly evident in her criticisms of BP and other corporations that have retreated from their environmental commitments.

Moreover, the legal landscape surrounding climate action is shifting. Recent rulings, such as the International Court of Justice’s decision that governments can be held legally accountable for failing to address climate change, may pave the way for challenges against corporations as well. This evolving legal framework could empower citizens and advocacy groups to demand greater accountability from both governments and industry leaders.

Since her departure from Brussels, Hedegaard has continued to champion climate policy through various roles, including her position as chair of the European Climate Foundation. However, her post-EU career has not been without controversy. In 2016, she joined Volkswagen’s Sustainability Council, a decision that drew criticism amidst the backdrop of the company’s emissions scandal. Hedegaard defended her role as one aimed at promoting accountability and driving the company towards sustainable practices.

As the current president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen has a pivotal role to play in shaping Europe’s climate future. Hedegaard’s message to von der Leyen is clear: do not waver in the face of adversity. “She has stood firm so far. She must continue to do that,” she stated emphatically.

Hedegaard’s warning extends beyond the political realm; it is a call to action for Europe to remain competitive on the global stage. “If Europe hesitates while others go full speed, we risk losing the industries of the future,” she cautioned. The recent climate pact with China, while framed as a diplomatic success, highlights the competitive nature of the global transition to sustainable technologies. This rivalry for dominance in the supply chain further complicates the landscape for EU policymakers.

In addressing the agricultural sector, Hedegaard identifies a key area where the EU can leverage its influence to drive the green transition. She argues that the Common Agricultural Policy, which consumes a significant portion of the EU budget, can be harnessed more effectively to support sustainable practices. “It takes courage,” she said, “but agriculture is one of the sectors where we actually have the tools to act.”

As Europe stands at a crossroads, the call to action is urgent. “This is not the time to hesitate or foot-drag,” Hedegaard emphasised. “It is time to deliver.” The future of Europe’s climate policy hinges not only on the decisions made in Brussels but also on the collective resolve of its citizens to demand accountability and action from their leaders. With the stakes higher than ever, the message is clear: we must not falter in our commitment to a sustainable future.