A new climate law in Sweden promises zero net greenhouse-gas emissions by 2045 and a 70% reduction in domestic transport sector emissions by 2030.
The proposed legislation would enter force on 1 January 2018 and the bill paving the way for its introduction was signed last month by Isabella Lövin, minister for international development co-operation and climate. It makes the government and future administrations responsible for pursuing policies that are based on the climate goals. For the first time, Sweden will have long-term climate goals beyond 2020 and a council that independently reviews policy associated with these, she said.
The new law, which is being examined by Council on Legislation before it is presented for a final vote in the Swedish parliament, the Riksdag, was part of climate policy framework agreed by seven of the eight main political parties. It also includes new climate targets and the creation of an independent climate policy council to provide advice to policymakers.
Targets include zero net emissions by 2045. Emissions from activities in Swedish territory would have to be reduced by at least 85% compared with 1990 levels, with the 100% target achieved through supplementary measures, such as increased uptake of carbon in forests and land, and investments in offsetting projects in other countries. Under the plans, emissions in Sweden that are not covered by the EU emissions trading system would need to decline by at least 63% by 2030 compared with 1990 and by 75% by 2040.
Lövin said: ‘There will be no more arbitrariness in climate policy. The large majority of the Riksdag supporting the framework enables a long-term approach and stability, which is exactly what climate policy needs. The transition presents enormous opportunities in the form of jobs, better health and competitiveness.’
