European Green Deal – opportunities and challenges for the EU and Poland
06.05.2020
“Due to the level of ambition, the realisation of this vision is a big challenge for the EU and Poland, but at the same time the level of innovation required to achieve this objective is a big development opportunity for us,” said the Minister of Climate Michał Kurtyka during the opening meeting of the Green Transformation Council, organised by the Lewiatan Confederation. The meeting, which was held in the form of a video-conference, took place on 6 May 2020.
According to the Minister, if the EU’s climate neutrality is to be a realistic goal, there should be a fair and just distribution of commitments.
“This could be an opportunity for the EU and Poland to show that the way out of the current coronavirus crisis can be climate-friendly and just for the society. We cannot allow the transition cost to burden the poorest and the most vulnerable groups,” he said.
The Minister of Climate also pointed out that inequalities within the EU itself, with varying circumstances in each of the Member States, should be taken into account.
“We are going to need financial support and various measures ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
“Climate neutrality is a path that each country has to choose for itself, taking into account the tools available at their disposal. In Poland we plan to gradually diversify our energy mix and develop renewable energy at the same time,” he added.
Michał Kurtyka also pointed out that in the near future the European Commission will present further details on the European Green Deal and the work schedule.
“We want to carry on with a constructive debate on the future of EU climate policy. Poland will not only be an active listener, but also a partner in these discussions,” he claimed.
