EU climate chief Wopke Hoekstra warns Europe could face 3°C warming by 2100, urging governments to strengthen protection against extreme heat, floods and wildfires.
Europe must prepare for a future of increasingly extreme weather with the European Union warning that the continent could face around 3°C of warming by 2100. The European Commission is preparing new rules requiring member states to clearly identify which authorities are responsible for protecting citizens against climate related disasters.
EU Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra told Euronews that the world risks temporarily or potentially remaining above the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C warming limit. He stressed that governments must strengthen preparedness even as efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions continue.
According to the Commission’s projections, Europe could experience around 2°C of warming by 2050 and 3°C by 2100. Europe is warming roughly twice as fast as the global average, increasing the risks associated with heatwaves, floods and wildfires.
EU seeks clear accountability for climate risks
Under the proposed legislation, EU countries would have to specify whether national, regional or local authorities are responsible for preparing for climate disasters. Governments would retain flexibility in assigning these duties but would be required to make accountability clear.
The Commission also wants climate projections to become a standard part of planning for roads, bridges, neighbourhoods and other infrastructure. Officials argue that construction based on historical weather patterns may no longer be suitable for future climate conditions.
Hoekstra estimated that extreme weather this summer caused more than €100 billion in economic damage, underlining the growing financial burden of climate related disasters.
Despite its push for stronger climate preparedness, the Commission has not announced new financial support for households adapting their homes to rising temperatures, flooding and other climate risks.
Hoekstra pointed to a proposal to allocate 35% of the EU budget to climate and nature related priorities. The bloc is also relying on €30 billion in climate adaptation financing announced by the European Investment Bank through 2030.
However, the effectiveness of these plans will depend on negotiations over the EU’s next long term budget where climate spending competes with defence, security, agriculture and economic competitiveness.
The Commission is also seeking closer cooperation with the insurance sector to address gaps in financial protection against climate disasters. According to a senior Commission official, only around 25% of assets exposed to climate impacts are insured, leaving governments businesses and property owners vulnerable to significant losses.
The proposed strategy aims to shift Europe towards prevention and long term resilience rather than rebuilding after disasters strike. However, without additional household support, the cost of climate adaptation could remain a significant challenge particularly for lower income families.