Austrian coalition sends draft climate protection law to expert review
Austria's governing coalition of ÖVP, SPÖ and Neos has forwarded a new climate protection bill to a parliamentary assessment panel, amid Green Party calls for stronger heat-wave safeguards.
In a special session of the National Council, Green Party chair Leonore Gewessler demanded immediate action on heat-wave protection and the adoption of an effective climate law. The ÖVP-SPÖ-Neos coalition responded that a draft law, designed to make Austria "climate-fit" while preserving its economic competitiveness, has been sent for parliamentary scrutiny. Climate Minister Norbert Totschnig presented the legislation as a long-term governance act featuring three pillars: reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and expanding renewables, strengthening adaptation measures like cooling homes and securing water supplies, and promoting a circular economy to cut resource use and waste.
He highlighted Austria’s progress, noting emissions are now nearly 29 percent below 2005 levels and that the domestic green-tech sector employs tens of thousands. The bill calls for a climate roadmap to be prepared by the end of 2027, with a flexible clause for crisis-related adjustments, overseen by a steering group chaired by the environment ministry and supported by a scientific advisory board.
Why it matters
The law will shape Austria's climate strategy, affecting emissions, industry and public health.
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