European Industry & Civil Society Unite to Accelerate Climate Action

A coalition of 55 leading European companies, industry trade associations, and civil society organisations has come together to support the swift implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System for road transport and buildings (ETS2). This new alliance, named the European ETS2 Action Alliance, includes major players such as TRATON, Vattenfall, and Danfoss, and aims to ensure that the ETS2 mechanism, which will introduce carbon pricing on diesel, petrol, and heating fuels from 2028, is delivered without delay or dilution. The group has collectively urged the European Union to maintain a clear and consistent approach to ETS2, stressing that predictability is essential for businesses to confidently invest in green technologies. The signatories emphasise that the success of ETS2 will depend not only on its implementation but also on complementary policies, including the Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII) and the Clean Corporate Vehicle Regulation. These measures are seen as critical to achieving the EU’s broader climate objectives, particularly in decarbonising road transport and reducing emissions from buildings. The alliance warns that any postponement or weakening of ETS2 risks undermining the EU’s climate targets, energy security, and its competitive position in the global transition to low-carbon economies. Key voices within the coalition have highlighted the importance of a stable and robust ETS2 framework. Federico Terreni, climate manager at Transport & Environment, cautioned against any backtracking on the system, emphasising the need for consistent policies to support both businesses and citizens. Similarly, Raphaël Héliot, senior policy manager at E-Mobility Europe, described ETS2 as a vital catalyst for scaling zero-emission transport and urged policymakers to act decisively, including delivering on the Social Climate Fund to ensure a fair transition for all Europeans. The formation of the European ETS2 Action Alliance marks a significant step in uniting diverse stakeholders behind a common goal of accelerating climate action through market-based mechanisms. This informal coalition will serve as a platform for collaboration among NGOs, industry representatives, and environmental groups, working together to safeguard the integrity of ETS2 and promote its effective deployment. Their joint efforts underscore the urgency of moving beyond debate to concrete implementation, signalling strong industry and civil society backing for the EU’s climate ambitions.