Based on current trends, by 2010, the European Union will cut emissions to only 0.6% below 1990 levels.  The Kyoto protocol calls for a reduction of 8% by 2012.  Moreover, between today and 2010, emissions are projected to increase by 0.3%.  The estimates were compiled by the staff of EU environment commissioner Stavros Dimas.

Mr Dimas said that, on unchanged policies, seven countries – Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain – would exceed their individual emission limits, which are binding under EU law. Even with extra measures, Spain is projected to exceed its 1990 emissions by 51.3% in 2010, compared with an allowed increase under Kyoto of 15%.

Spain's annual economic growth is nearly 4%, one of the highest rates in western Europe, but it has suffered from extreme weather prompting greater use of fossil fuels. Ireland is projected to reach 30% above 1990 levels by 2010, against an allowance of 13%, and Portugal 42.7% higher, with an allowance of 27%.
. . .
Mr Dimas is to propose that civil aviation be brought within the EU's CO2 emissions trading scheme and is considering legislation for car manufacturers.

The European Regions Airline Association has said that, if aviation is incorporated into the carbon emissions trading scheme, airlines could move out of the EU.

ERAA spokesman Simon McNamara said that for legal reasons the scheme would be difficult for the Commission to impose on companies based outside the EU flying in Europe, which might encourage airlines to relocate outside of Europe.

h/t: Greenie Watch

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