French President Emmanuel Macron has introduced an ecological plan for the country, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55%. The plan intends to phase out the use of fossil fuels by 2030.

The 50-point programme is France’s effort to address the climate crisis and promote sustainable development.

It includes a wide range of measures such as investing in renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and supporting the development of new technologies.

Macron said that the ecological plan is essential for France to remain competitive in the global economy and to ensure a sustainable future for the country. He also pledged to provide financial assistance to businesses and individuals affected by the transition.

The plan, dubbed ecology à la Française, will allocate €10 billion to implement the initiatives.

One central goal of the plan is to reduce France’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Currently, these fuels account for 60% of the nation’s energy needs. The plan outlines a strategy to phase out fossil fuel usage across various sectors, including transportation, energy production, and industry.

Macron announced the launch of new offshore wind projects, aiming to harness the potential of France’s coastal regions for clean energy production. These projects will reduce carbon emissions and create jobs.

To accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and curb emissions from home heating, the plan includes initiatives to boost the production and adoption of electric cars. Restrictions on gas boilers are mentioned, though a complete ban is not specified. The Ecology à la Française encourages individuals and businesses to explore alternative heating options, such as heat pumps.

The plan also outlines the establishment of several electric battery factories in northern France. Efforts will be made to identify and utilise natural resources within France, including hydrogen gas and essential elements for lithium batteries. Comprehensive resource mapping will facilitate sustainable development.

The plan also allocates a state investment of €700 million in the regional train network to promote greener commuting options.

Companies responsible for the 50 most polluting industrial sites in France have committed to reducing pollution by a substantial 45% before 2030 as part of Macron’s plan.

President Macron also announced that the state would regain control over electricity prices starting next month. This decision aims to ensure that energy remains affordable for consumers while supporting the transition to cleaner and more sustainable sources of electricity.

Ecology à la Française plan is formulated by the office of the Prime Minister. This initiative came to fruition following the appointment of Antoine Pellion as the Secretary General for Ecological Planning. Pellion is responsible for coordinating national strategies related to climate, energy, biodiversity, and the circular economy.

Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne presented the plan to party leaders and ecological groups last week, seeking input and collaboration from stakeholders in the country’s environmental policies.

Ecology à la Française garnered praise for its goals. However, some ecological groups such as Europe Écologie les Verts found aspects of the plan lacking in terms of depth and immediate action.

Marine Tondelier from Europe Écologie les Verts referred to it as the “longest communication plan in history.” The plan may outline a broad vision for ecological transformation, yet it may not provide specific, actionable measures to address pressing environmental issues, according to Tondelier.

Socialist Party Leader Olivier Faure also expressed disappointment with the plan.