The European Commission has identified several shortcomings in domestic environmental policy. In particular, the Brussels authorities have examined climate targets, legal options for citizens and NGOs, habitats and species.
“Despite marked improvements in conservation and restoration efforts over the past decades, the status of many habitats and species is deteriorating,” the European Commission said. The area of Natura 2000 areas is below the EU average.
More effective pricing of greenhouse gas emissions
The EU authority also called on Austria to price greenhouse gas emissions “more broadly and effectively” in meeting European and national climate targets. Adapting the energy infrastructure to the requirements of the green transition and major investments in energy storage infrastructure and transport and distribution networks are necessary.
There was also criticism of the legal possibilities for citizens to act against administrative or regulatory decisions. According to the report, these are not complete enough.
progress in air quality
However, Austria has made progress on air quality: “In 2020, no EU air quality limit values for nitrogen dioxide or particulate matter were exceeded.” There were also positives for the comprehensive circular economy strategy. The reduction of environmental pollution in groundwater was also praised. The EU commission named the repair bonus and the climate ticket as “best practices” in Austria.
Source: Krone
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