Belgian industry could cut emissions by 90% by 2040, but next five years are decisive
Belgium’s industry could reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 per cent by 2040, but only if decisive steps are taken within the next five years. That is the conclusion of a new study by the Free University of Brussels (VUB), commissioned by the federal government’s climate change department.
According to official figures provided to the UFCCC, Belgian industry accounts for 28 per cent of Belgium’s emissions, around 30 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually. That comes mainly from chemicals, steel, and cement and lime production.
VUB researchers were tasked to examine how that could be reduced. They examined more than 180 technological options and concluded that a 90 per cent cut compared to 2005 levels is theoretically possible by 2040. But lead author Tomas Wyns warned that delays in technology and infrastructure would push the target closer to 2050.
The report points to electrification of industrial heat, carbon capture and storage, and a more circular use of materials as the most impactful measures. But it stresses that the next five years are critical to build CO2 transport and storage infrastructure, scale up renewable energy, and reinforce the power grid. Coordinated policies and stable investment frameworks will also be required.
Large investments needed
According to industry federation Agoria, the sector has already cut emissions by more than 40 per cent and electrified 60 per cent of their operations. “We are on track for 2030, but climate neutrality by 2050 demands large investments that are often not profitable today,” warned Agoria CEO Bart Steukers. “Without stable policies, we risk pricing our companies out of the market.”
The findings come on the same day as a special meeting of EU environment ministers in Brussels, where they will discuss climate policy and the bloc’s nationally determined contributions (NDCs) ahead of November’s COP30 summit in Brazil. Divisions remain within the EU over targets for 2035 and a common negotiating stance.
© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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