France’s emissions falling faster in 2026 but still over climate target

The Butachimie chemical plant in Chalampe, eastern France, 8 November 2022. France’s greenhouse gas emissions are expected to fall by 2.8 percent in 2026, although the pace remains too slow to meet the country’s 2030 climate targets. © AP - Jean-Francois Badias

France’s greenhouse gas emissions are expected to fall by 2.8 percent in 2026, slightly more than last year – but the pace of decarbonisation remains well below what is needed to meet the country’s climate targets.

Emissions are forecast to reach around 349.4 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent this year, according to estimates published on Tuesday by Citepa, the organisation responsible for compiling France’s national emissions inventory.