Europe Must Resist Polluters Amid Middle East Conflict

On the eve of the European Council meeting in Brussels, several Italian environmental groups issued a joint warning. They urged leaders to avoid policies that would favor fossil fuels.

Who signed the appeal

The statement came from Forum Diseguaglianze Diversità, Greenpeace Italia and Kyoto Club. Legambiente, Transport & Environment and WWF Italia also backed the call.

Filmogaz.com obtained the full press release. The groups warned against suspending the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

What the groups demand

The NGOs said ETS revenues must support the energy transition. They called for investments in efficiency, renewables, storage and electrification.

The aim is to shield families and businesses from further energy price shocks. They want the Green Deal kept on course and energy poverty tackled.

Funds and accountability

An independent climate think tank reported that the ETS generated about €18 billion. Only 9 percent, roughly €1.6 billion, went to climate policies.

The groups urged clearer rules to prevent ETS money being diverted to general budgets. They want funds spent on decarbonisation projects instead.

Energy mix and security

According to the statement, renewable sources now produce more electricity than fossil fuels in the EU. The NGOs described renewables as the path to independence.

They argued that a faster shift away from gas and oil will reduce exposure to international crises. European leaders must resist polluters while addressing the Middle East conflict.

Immediate relief measures

The organisations proposed reducing taxes on electricity. They also urged reform of support systems to help households and firms immediately.

They stressed that regulatory simplification must never weaken environmental or social protections. Climate damage costs will otherwise burden public budgets and citizens.

Message to the Italian government

The groups specifically urged Rome not to seek ETS suspension. They asked Italy to strengthen ambitious climate policies instead.

The appeal closes by calling for decisive action to speed the transition and cut fossil fuel dependence. Filmogaz.com will follow developments at the Brussels meeting.