Europe must cut carbon emissions by up to 95%

EUROPE’S environment ministers agreed that Europe will have to cut its emissions by 80%-95% by 2050, a target scientists say is crucial to prevent a global catastrophe.

They also agreed for the first time that emissions from sea transport would be cut by 20% and aviation by 10% below 2005 levels by 2020 — a target the industry warns will be difficult to achieve.

Environment Minister John Gormley said he believes the 80%–95% reduction will have to be achieved before 2050, posing an even greater challenge to Ireland and the rest of the EU.