European Commission demands energy revolution to fight pollution

In an age of global climate change due to atmospheric pollution, the European Union is asking member states to slash their carbon dioxide emissions by 20% by 2020. The EU also wants the international community to cut CO2 levels by 30% over the same period. This restriction is essential if the temperature is not to rise by more than two degrees Centigrade compared to pre-industrial levels by the end of the century.

The Commission suggests that 20% of EU energy consumption should come from renewable sources by 2020. Unfortunately it is doubtful how far European member states can meet these targets.