Countries in the European Union could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 24% by 2020, 4% over the set target, according to the European Environment Agency (EEA). Romania is among the countries that are on track of achieving the set targets of 20%, reports AFP, cited by local Mediafax.

In 2013, the greenhouse gas emissions fell by 1.8% compared to the previous year, and by 19.3% compared to the reference year 1990. The European Union established in 2008 a 20% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020.

"Our analysis shows that Europe is on track towards its 2020 targets," said AEE chief Hans Bruyninckx.

Nine EU countries are on track to achieving the set targets, namely Romania, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Hungary, Slovakia and the UK.

Last week, European leaders set new targets for 2030: reducing greenhouse gases emissions by at least 40% from 1990 levels, increasing renewable energy to at least 27% of final energy consumption and a minimum 27% reduction in energy consumption.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com