Energy and the environment
CO2-Emissions
The Czech Republic has signed (1998) and ratified (2001) the Kyoto Protocol. A memorandum of understanding concerning Joint Implementation projects with Austria does exist.
According to the Kyoto-protocol, Czech Republic has to reduce her emissions of greenhouse gases by 8 % compared to the base year 1990. Czech Republic emits more greenhouse gases than countries with similar population and industrial development because of its high energy intensity and its high use of fossil fuels. There is an obligation in State Environmentaly Policy to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by 20 % by 2010.
Between 1990 and 2004, the greenhouse gas emissions of Czech Republic have decreased by about 25 %. [UNFCCC]
CO2-emissions per Capita of Czech Republic, other CEEC, Austria, and the EU 15, 2007
Air pollution
The energy sector, in particular heat and power generating plants, is the main source of air pollutants, accounting for approximately 82% of SO2 emissions, 21% of NOx emissions, and 55% of total particulates released into the atmosphere. Over the past decade, the Czech Republic has seen a dramatic downward trend in its emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulates, carbon monoxide (CO), and non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs).
