Frequently asked questions on the ESR Safety/Early Action Reserve
The Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR) defines the carbon budget for EU member states for the non-traded sectors (surface transport, buildings, agriculture, small industry and waste) until 2030.
If the ESR’s headline goal of -30% compared to 2005 is undermined through loopholes, the ESR will not lead to real-world emission reductions in those sectors. This FAQ is aimed at bringing clarity to one element being discussed during the negotiations: the ESR Safety/Early Action Reserve.
Related Articles
View All
Plug-in hybrids emit six times, on average, what official tests claim - new EU data
The car lobby is demanding that the EU scrap rules that would better reflect PHEV pollution
Oil majors double profits in Europe in latest quarter
As wildfires rage across Europe, T&E calls for a permanent tax on the windfall profits being made off the back of European drivers
How much windfall profit have oil companies made in Europe?
Just eight oil companies have made €7.5 billion in excess profits in Europe in the first half of 2026