EU Fines Nine Countries for Failing to Designate Methane Emissions Watchdogs
The European Commission has taken action against nine EU member states, including Spain, for failing to designate competent authorities to oversee methane emissions regulations. The EU's methane regulation aims to enhance measurement, reduce emissions, and boost transparency. The Commission has sent letters of formal notice, giving these countries two months to respond and rectify the issue.
By February 5, 2025, member states were required to notify the Commission of their chosen authorities. However, Spain, Bulgaria, Estonia, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Austria, Slovakia, and Finland have not complied with this requirement. In Spain's case, the responsible authority for monitoring and ensuring compliance with methane regulations has not been designated yet. If the responses from these countries are unsatisfactory, the Commission may issue a reasoned opinion and even refer the case to the European Court of Justice.
The Commission's complaint highlights the importance of member states' cooperation in implementing the EU's methane regulation. The nine countries have until the end of this month to respond and correct their deficiencies. Failure to do so may result in further legal action.
Read also:
- Planned construction of enclosures within Görlitzer Park faces delays
- Controversy resurfaces following the elimination of diesel filter systems at Neckartor: A renewed conflict over the diesel restriction policy
- SV Empor Brandenburg's U9 Team Leads in Environmental Protection with E-waste Campaign
- Renewable energy sources take over nuclear power and decrease overall emissions concurrently
