Book Description

ÔThe book gives detailed discussions of essential EU climate law and presents profound national reports which cover the transposition of EU law and focus on national climate strategies, which are often complex and sometimes also ambitious. Comparative studies at the grassroots level are an important source of ideas and possibilities and also useful documentation both for researchers and political actors.Õ Ð Erkki Hollo, University of Helsinki, Finland ÔThis is an outstanding collection of essays by a multi-national team of leading scholars. It reminds us that in a system of multi-level governance, it is crucial to examine and appraise developments not only at the level of the European Union but also within the Member States. This task has become easier with the publication of this excellent book.Õ Ð Joanne Scott, University College London, UK The complex and multifaceted nature of EU climate legislation poses a major challenge for EU Member States. This timely book focuses on national climate action, addressing the regulatory responses required for the purposes of meeting greenhouse gas emissions reduction objectives for 2020 (and beyond). The book seeks to answer such questions as: what kind of legislative approaches should be developed to comply with EU climate law? What room for national discretion should remain? What opportunities exist to go beyond EU ambitions? In addition, distinguished authors analyse national regulatory developments across selected Member States, identifying potential areas for review and improvement. The book offers further discussion and legal analysis of core themes such as: long-term target setting; contrasting legislative approaches; instrument mixes; and key linkages between environmental and energy law. In light of the challenges confronting national legislators, this book offers important insights into the role and contribution of law towards improved climate protection, with potential lessons for countries both within and outside the EU. With this in mind, Climate Law in EU Member States will be a valuable read for policymakers and civil servants at national ministries and at the European Commission, carbon consultants and environmental non-governmental organisations, as well as for academics in and outside the EU.