Anne Højer Simonsen is a Senior Vice President and Head of Climate Policy at Danish Industry.
As we face new global challenges, from rising geopolitical tensions to economic uncertainty, some have questioned whether now is the right time to push forward with ambitious green politics. At Danish Industry, our answer is clear: it has never been more relevant and urgent.
In Denmark, the business community is ready to lead the climate transition. In fact we already lead the way today. We foresee enormous opportunities when Danish and European competitiveness and ambitious climate policies are coherent and mutually reinforcing.
Recently the conversation around climate policy has developed more complexity. Today’s living costs, competitiveness and security concerns in Europe require more political attention. This must not lead to hesitation on climate action. On the contrary, Europe’s transition to a climate-neutral economy is a strategic opportunity that helps address other challenges.
Green solutions are becoming the more sensible and reliable option for energy security, industrial resilience and competitiveness, or long-term prosperity. In addition to lowering emissions, investments in renewable energy, effective infrastructure, and emerging green technologies also boost Europe’s independence, supply security, and job prospects.
I firmly believe that climate action is a powerful engine for a strong Europe with sustainable growth, playing a central part in boosting competitiveness, energy security, and resilience. The global context only reinforces this. We already experience the effects of a changing climate across the world, from floods in Europe to droughts in Africa. By advancing green technologies and climate adaptation, Europe has better odds to remain a strong and resilient global player. On that background, Danish Industry and other Nordic industry leaders support the EU’s proposed 2040 climate target. An ambitious 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 is a necessary steppingstone to future proof our economy and the industrial long-term competitiveness. And crucially, the transition process must support industrial competitiveness all along the way.
We believe Europe can become a global leader in climate-friendly industries, but we must move the focus from regulation to implementation – that is an urgent task. The toolbox has been established and agreed upon, and we are well on our way to meeting the EU’s 2030 target. The time has come to deliver. The key is implementation. The EU has already adopted ambitious legislation through the Green Deal and the Fit-for-55 package. Fast and efficient permitting for green technologies, support for innovation, and collaboration across borders are all essential and necessary elements – and they must be put into action now.
It is a basic and unavoidable task to ensure that green investments remain attractive. Europe has many of the relevant initiatives in place but there is still an investment gap. We have to reduce uncertainty, de-risk value chains and improve access to private capital. Public funds cannot do the job alone and mainly target the most impactful and future-proof projects—those that help decarbonise value chains, improve energy efficiency, and strengthen green supply networks.
A strong post-2030 climate framework will be critical. European companies need predictability to plan, innovate and invest. That means making emissions trading systems fit for the future, ensuring fair international competition, and supporting sectors that are still in the early stages of decarbonisation.
In a global perspective. Europe accounts for a rather small share of global emissions, but we have always led by example. We will be expected to do so in the future too. Our actions and technologies inspire globally and often lead to global standards. It is important to showcase what other major economies can do to take responsibility for their share of emission reductions. And that it is an economic advantage to do so.
We already see how global interest in green technologies is growing. Electrification, green fuels, etc. Europe is well-positioned to compete in this space—if we maintain momentum. A green economy is not a trade-off; it is a win-win for growth, security and sustainability.
To succeed, we need cooperation—between governments, industries, and citizens. The green transition is not ‘just’ about climate – It is a shared vision for a more future-ready, innovative and resilient Europe. It is about improving quality of life, creating new opportunities for businesses and jobs, and preparing our societies for the decades to come.
The journey to a climate-neutral Europe is not just a challenge—it is our greatest opportunity to redefine progress. By turning ambition into action, policy into practice, and vision into reality, we are not merely adapting to the future—we are leading it.
This is Europe’s moment to prove that sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand. That innovation, when guided by purpose, can transform economies while protecting our planet. And that true leadership is not just about setting goals, but about delivering them—for our businesses, our communities, and generations to come.
The road ahead demands courage, collaboration, and unwavering commitment. But if history has taught us anything, it is that Europe thrives when it pioneers. So let us move forward—not with hesitation, but with conviction. Not with doubt, but with determination. Because the Europe we build today is the legacy we leave tomorrow.
The time for talking is over. The time for action is now. Let’s get to work.
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