The statement arises in response to the report on the state of the environment, published today by the European Environment Agency (EEA), which provides a comprehensive and cross-sectional evaluation of the environment, climate, and sustainability in Europe.
In an analysis of the document, Zero, referring to the indicators under observation for Portugal, identifies critical aspects such as climate, waste, and green taxation.
The association warns that Portugal must be prepared to adapt to a warmer climate, particularly concerning heatwaves, and emphasizes the need to prioritize home insulation and install cooling equipment.
It is necessary, they say, to reduce the VAT on air conditioning/heat pumps, and these devices should be supported by the E-Lar Program to improve the thermal comfort of homes.
In the area of waste, the association advocates for promoting reduction and reuse, seriously investing in high-efficiency models for selective waste collection and recycling separation, creating incentives for circularity, and promoting the reintegration of recycled materials into the economy.
Zero warns that Portugal has been underinvesting in green taxation, though it currently aligns with the European Union and is slightly increasing.
It is concerning that Portugal maintains support for fossil fuels (although on a downward trajectory) above the EU average. A recent example is the cost of electricity in Portugal’s domestic sector being more than double that of fossil natural gas.
In a traffic light system (green, red, and orange), the association gives Portugal a green light in greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energies, air quality improvement (impact on health), and terrestrial protected areas.
It is rated red or orange in final energy consumption, waste generation, circular use of materials, consumption footprint, energy poverty, environmental protection spending, environmental taxes, and eco-innovation.
