45,000 march in Brussels for climate action
Demonstrators demand end to fossil-fuel subsidies and transition to cleaner energy as EU proposes delay to methane rules
Tens of thousands of people marched in Brussels to demand urgent climate action, calling for an end to fossil-fuel subsidies and a transition to cleaner energy. The march, which was organised by the Climate Coalition and other environmental groups, ended near the EU institutions.
Police estimated the turnout at 45,000, while organisers put the figure at 60,000. Demonstrators carried banners and placards, including a giant inflatable screaming globe, to give the Earth a human voice and demand urgent climate action.
The march follows a summer of record-breaking temperatures and repeated heatwaves across Europe. Belgium also experienced deadly heat, while wildfires hit the High Fens nature reserve. The demonstration is a call to action for EU lawmakers and member states to take immediate action to address the climate crisis.
The European Commission is proposing a one-year delay to reporting requirements for importers of fossil fuels under the EU’s methane rules. The proposed delay would change the reporting requirements from 2027 to 2028, and would require approval by EU lawmakers and member states.
## Why it matters The march and the proposed delay to methane rules come at a time when climate action has slipped down the political agenda in Europe. The United States has also stepped back from international climate efforts under President Donald Trump, making it even more crucial for the EU to take a lead in addressing the climate crisis. The demonstrators' demands for an end to fossil-fuel subsidies, higher taxes on the industry, and a fair transition to cleaner energy are seen as essential steps towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The outcome of the proposed delay to methane rules and the EU's response to the demonstrators' demands will be closely watched in the coming months. With expectations for COP31 remaining low, the EU's actions on climate change will be under scrutiny from environmental groups and citizens around the world.
