Denmark aims for climate neutrality by 2050 with potential to absorb more greenhouse gases

Denmark is set to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, as established by its Climate Act. A new analysis indicates that this goal is realistic, with the potential for Denmark to absorb more greenhouse gases than it emits. However, this will require immediate political decisions, such as increasing forestation and investing in new technologies.

The Climate Council’s assessment reveals that Denmark could achieve up to 90% of its CO2 reduction targets with existing solutions, provided timely political action is taken. Council chair Peter Møllgaard emphasized that significant progress toward climate neutrality is feasible with the right decisions and known transition measures already in place.

Key actions proposed include removing low-lying farmland from agricultural production, expanding forest areas, phasing out gas usage in homes and industries, promoting electric vehicles, and leveraging existing technologies for CO2 storage underground. Møllgaard pointed out that achieving more than 90% emission reductions will likely require the introduction of new strategies.

The government has suggested raising its 2050 target for CO2 reduction to 110% below 1990 levels and moving the climate neutrality goal to 2045, although these propositions have yet to be ratified by the parliament.

The Climate Council recommends integrating these new targets into the Climate Act to enhance clarity regarding long-term ambitions. Various scenarios indicate a significant transformation in land use, with a potential shift from 60% crop cultivation to as low as 25%. Concurrently, 30% of land could be designated for protected nature areas.

The council highlights Denmark’s potential for producing green food and energy, advocating for the cessation of biomass imports for energy, and promoting domestic green fuels to meet international shipping and aviation needs. They assert that while uncertainty remains about future technologies, immediate action is crucial for achieving climate goals in the next 25 years.