President Barroso made the following remarks: "The world needs to do much better if we are to limit temperature increase to 2°C. We are heading towards a point of no return. Our foot is stuck on the accelerator and we need to hit the brakes, and fast. And renewable energy offers us a significant tool in doing so."
"The renewable sector faces its most important test in the coming decade. That of moving from an alternative source of energy into the primary source of energy supply. I believe that is going to happen."
"Increasing the use of renewables is central to building a new economic model. Over the last 5 years we have created 300,000 new jobs on our continent by actively developing the renewable energy sector. If we continue at this pace, this could mount to 1.5 million jobs by 2020, locking in a virtuous circle."
"We need not only to think but to act. That is why we will keep our commitment to include aviation in the Emissions Trading System, which will come into force next year. Some of our partners who criticise us would do better for themselves and for the planet if they joined us instead in this effort."
"Renewable energy is neither a luxury nor a distraction. Investing in the right renewable research, infrastructure and regulatory environment is core business for the EU."
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Details
- Publication date
- 17 June 2011
- Author
- Directorate-General for Climate Action