Climate change is a harsh reality, posing one of the most pressing challenges to humanity. Only a joint global response will ensure that we can counter this threat effectively. The European Union continues to lead by example - by working towards the success of international climate negotiations, and by taking strong action within the borders of our Union. The EU has adopted a very ambitious set of targets to reduce our impact on the climate by 2020 and 2050 and to lay the foundations for sustainable growth. This European leadership makes a difference – but we cannot do it alone: The EU only accounts for 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions; thus equally bold commitments and actions are needed from all other major emitters.