Denmark has surpassed the U.K. as the world’s most ambitious nation on climate action after unveiling a binding target to cut emissions by 82% by 2035.
Denmark has overtaken the United Kingdom as the world’s most ambitious country on climate policy after announcing a stricter emissions-reduction target, according to a report from the LOS ANGELES TIMES. Danish Climate Minister Lars Aagaard said his government will submit a binding goal to cut carbon emissions by 82% by 2035 compared with 1990 levels — one point higher than the U.K.’s target set earlier this year.
The Danish government added in a statement that the final figure will fall “within the range of 82 to 85 percent,” noting it is prepared to allocate about $620 million annually to meet the commitment. “It is crucial that we send a bold and clear signal in the times that we’re living in,” Aagaard told reporters at the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil. “Too much in this world is moving in the wrong direction. In Denmark we will continue to show that ambitious climate action can go hand in hand with a competitive economy and strong social cohesion.”
Denmark has long been considered one of the EU’s most progressive nations on climate issues, benefiting economically from its investment in clean technologies. By contrast, the EU’s collective pledge to the United Nations targets emissions cuts of between 66.3% and 72.5%. Major emitters like India and Saudi Arabia have yet to submit updated climate goals.