Austria seeks agreement on new climate protection law

The Austrian government is working toward an agreement on a new climate protection law, with a potential consensus expected in the ministerial council as early as this week. The legislative push follows a special session of the National Council requested by the Green Party to address climate action and heat protection.

Internal tensions remain high within the coalition. Green Party leader Leonore Gewessler has criticized current proposals as “toothless,” arguing for binding targets, measures against drought, and clearer consequences for failing to meet goals. Conversely, State Secretary Alexander Pröll has advocated for a solution based on “common sense.”

A major point of contention is the timeline for climate neutrality; while the EU mandates a 2050 target, some coalition discussions have centered on achieving neutrality by 2040. Economic representatives within the People's Party (ÖVP) have expressed opposition to certain plans, seeking concessions such as the permission for CO2 storage and accelerated environmental impact assessments.

In addition to the climate law, the government is expected to address drought relief for farmers and potential electricity price caps for households. Pressure is mounting from party leadership, including Chancellor Christian Stocker, to deliver tangible results during this autumn legislative period.