Press release: 9 March 2022
European Parliament green lights EU support for gas infrastructure - ClientEarth reaction
In a vote today, the European Parliament did not oppose the fifth edition of the “projects of common interest” (PCI) list which include gas projects like the vast EastMed pipeline. Projects featured on the list gain fast-track permitting privileges and the opportunity to receive EU funding.
Guillermo Ramo, energy lawyer at environmental law organisation ClientEarth, said: “Today's vote is galling and doesn’t meet the moment. A PCI list that includes gas projects does not square with the EU’s legal obligations under the Paris Agreement and it’s absurdly out of touch with new realities. Doubling down on fossil fuels will only create more crises, at a time when the EU needs to focus on energy efficiency, better storage and homegrown renewables.”
ENDS
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ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account, and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. From our offices in Europe, Asia and the USA we shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.