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The Government of North Rhine-Westphalia

North Rhine-Westphalia

Population: 17.9 million (2008)
GHG Emissions: 282.5 MtCO2 (2008)

The North Rhine-Westphalia region strives for strong economic growth alongside emission reduction. North Rhine-Westphalia is an active member of The Climate Group's States and Regions program.


Targets/Goals

North Rhine-Westphalia intends to adopt a Climate Change Bill. Key points are:

  • The draft Bill adopted in June 2011 includes a reduction in carbon emissions in North Rhine-Westphalia by at least 25% by 2020 and by at least 80% by 2050 compared to 1990. This will be achieved through a number of measures including energy conservation and efficiency and the expansion of renewable energy. By 2030, the Bill states, the state government will be carbon neutral;
  • Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in North Rhine-Westphalia by at least 25% by 2020 and by 80-95% by 2050 compared to 1990;
  • An increase in energy efficiency, energy conservation and the expansion of renewable energies;
  • The mitigation of adverse impacts of climate change;
  • The establishment of a Climate Change Council;
  • The introduction of climate protection goals as objectives of regional planning;
  • A CO2-neutral state administration until 2030.

Further information can be found on the North Rhine-Westphalia States and Regions page.