In the light of the upcoming COP25 in Madrid from 2 to 13 December, the S&D Group underlines the importance of the EU taking the lead in fighting climate change. In the current climate emergency, the EU must lead by example and speak with a single and unified voice in the coming negotiations with the international community. People across the world, especially the younger generation, are increasingly active in fighting for climate action. All parties worldwide must significantly increase their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with solidarity and cooperation determining the process.
S&D environment committee coordinator, Jytte Guteland, said:
“Today, we as a Parliament heed the call of citizens all across Europe and the world who are calling for leaders to take action against climate change. We demand that all parties under the Paris Agreement significantly ramp up their efforts to urgently further reduce climate emissions.
“This resolution gives Parliament's delegation to COP25 a strong mandate to push for concrete actions from world leaders in Madrid.
“For the S&D Group, swift action to reduce emissions must go hand in hand with innovation and social justice. Our climate efforts will only succeed if they are done in a socially sustainable way. Europe can and must lead the way here.”
S&D rapporteur on the COP25 resolution, Mohammed Chahim, commented:
“With this resolution, we are taking a first step towards a climate-neutral Europe in which solidarity will be at the heart of all our climate actions.
“We must invest in solidarity amongst rich and poor. We must reform our economy. We must invest in accessible new technologies. We also need to look beyond our borders for ideas, actions and solutions.
“The European Parliament is sending a message that Europe is ready to take responsibility.
“We are proud of this resolution; it is time for greater ambition, socially just plans and courageous political leadership.”
