CO2 emissions: what the new EU 2025 regulations say

The EU 2025 regulations on CO2 emissions mark a decisive step towards a more sustainable Europe. With the aim of combating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, these laws impose stricter limits on emissions from vehicles and industrial sectors. Let's delve into the main provisions, impacts, and challenges associated with these regulations.

EU 2025 Regulations on CO2 Emissions

The new regulations set stringent targets to reduce CO2 emissions across Europe. They focus on key sectors, including transport, heavy industry, construction, and agriculture, and impose stricter emission limits compared to previous regulations. These regulations represent a fundamental intermediate step towards achieving climate neutrality by 2050, in line with the European Green Deal.

Objectives of the EU 2025 Regulations

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

The European Union aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030. The year 2025 is a crucial milestone to assess progress towards this ambitious goal.

Acceleration of the energy transition

The regulations encourage the development and adoption of low-emission technologies. These include electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and green hydrogen.

Compliance with the Paris Agreement

The EU regulatory package aims to comply with the Paris Agreement, limiting the increase in global temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Sectors Affected by the EU 2025 Regulations

Transport Sector

Transport is responsible for a significant share of CO2 emissions in Europe, with cars, trucks, and planes contributing to the problem.

• New limits for cars: automakers must meet an average threshold of 80 g/km of CO2 for new vehicles. These limits push companies to design more efficient engines or switch to electric.

• Promotion of electric vehicles: the EU is investing billions in expanding charging infrastructure, thereby incentivizing the purchase of low-emission vehicles.

Heavy Industry

Sectors such as steel, cement, and chemical production are subject to stricter regulations. They must adopt carbon capture and storage technologies to comply with the new limits.

Construction and Heating

Buildings account for about 36% of total CO2 emissions in the EU. The new regulations require:

• The use of sustainable building materials.

• The installation of more efficient heating systems, such as heat pumps and solar panels.

Agricultural Sector

Although less visible, agriculture significantly contributes to emissions. The new regulations promote sustainable agricultural practices, such as the use of low-emission fertilizers and optimized soil management.

Technologies to Comply with the Regulations

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)

The carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology focuses on intercepting CO₂ emissions at the source and then storing them in secure geological formations. As of 2024, the global number of CCS projects increased by 60%, rising from 41 to 50 operational sites. However, overall capacity remains limited, with only 51 million tons of CO₂ captured annually, a figure still insufficient to significantly meet global climate goals.

Collaborations on Renewables

In Italy, the National Research Council (CNR) has entered a five-year strategic agreement with Carbfix, a global leader in mineral carbon capture and storage technology. This partnership aims to develop innovative technologies that can reduce the impact of climate change, facilitating a rapid energy transition.

Increase in Renewable Energy

Italy has made significant progress in the field of renewable energy. In 2019, renewable sources accounted for 41.9% of the national gross electricity production, an increase of 207% compared to 1990. This progress has primarily been driven by the expansion of solar and wind energy.

Hydrogen Vehicles

Green hydrogen, produced using electricity from renewable sources, represents an innovative solution for reducing emissions in the heavy transport and industrial sectors. Although the use of hydrogen vehicles is still in its infancy, Italy is investing in infrastructure and pilot projects to promote the adoption of this promising technology.

Energy Efficiency

Staying in Italy, numerous measures have been implemented to increase energy efficiency in both residential and industrial sectors. These interventions have reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting the achievement of climate goals set at national and international levels.

Challenges and Opportunities

Main Challenges

• High Investments: compliance with the regulations requires significant initial costs for companies.

• Regional Disparities: some member states face greater difficulties due to their outdated infrastructure.

• Political Opposition: not all sectors easily accept the regulations, fearing economic repercussions.

Growth Opportunities

• Growth of the Green Economy: the energy transition can create millions of jobs in the renewable and clean technology sectors.

• European Leadership: the EU strengthens its position as a global leader in the fight against climate change, influencing policies of other countries.

How Regulations are Changing the Vehicle Market

Tighter Standards for Manufacturers

Car manufacturers are forced to innovate rapidly, investing in research and development to maintain competitiveness.

Environmental and Social Implications

Reduction of Air Pollution

The policies adopted by the European Union have led to a significant reduction in emissions of pollutants in the air. However, some urban areas continue to register levels above the imposed limits. A notable example is Cremona, Italy, which in 2021 and 2022 exceeded the EU limit of 25 µg/m³ for fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Benefits for Public Health

A cleaner air has contributed to improving the health conditions of the population. Various studies have shown that integrated strategies for reducing air pollution and combating climate change can decrease the incidence of severe diseases. 

Increased Environmental Awareness

The initiatives promoted at the European level have encouraged greater awareness of the environment among citizens. Projects like “Clair city” have actively engaged residents of various European cities, helping them understand how their daily habits affect air quality. This participatory approach has stimulated the adoption of more sustainable and responsible behaviors.

FAQ on the EU 2025 CO2 Emission Regulations

What do the EU 2025 regulations stipulate for cars?
New cars must meet an average limit of 80 g/km of CO2 and electric or low-emission vehicles will be promoted.

Which sectors are most affected?
The key sectors are transport, heavy industry, construction, and heating, with specific regulations for each area.

How will emissions be monitored?
Emissions will be monitored through mandatory verification systems and annual reports submitted by companies.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Companies that do not comply with the regulations will face heavy financial penalties and trade restrictions.

What role do renewable energies play?
Renewable energies are crucial for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and achieving climate goals.

How can businesses adapt to these regulations?
Businesses can invest in clean technologies, optimize production processes, and train personnel to manage the transition. The new EU 2025 regulations on CO2 emissions represent a paradigm shift towards a greener and more sustainable Europe. The road to climate neutrality is challenging, but with the collective commitment of governments, businesses, and citizens, it is possible to achieve this ambitious goal.