A comparative analysis of EU Member States and their performance with the UN Climate Change Agenda (UN SDG 13 - Climate Action)

Abstract

The objective of this research is to assess the performance of the European Union (EU) 27, its regions and Member States (MS) towards the United Nations 2030 Agenda Climate Action Sustainable Development Goal (SDG13). To do so, a qualitative and quantitative analysis was held, applying the Alkire-Foster (AF) method, and developing the Multidimensional Climate Action Index (MCAI) framework. Results show that the EU and its regions are not performing satisfactorily. The individual composite scores of the MCAI framework revealed a better individual performance of individual Member States when compared to their group performances. There is a relationship between high GDP per capita level and satisfactory performance. Southern Europe and Central and Eastern Europe are the regions performing mostly unsatisfactorily regarding the UN 2030 Agenda SDG13. Southern Europe, more exposed to climate change related losses, is suffering the more negative effects related to climate change. Central and Eastern Europe is underperforming on promoting social political awareness regarding climate change.

Date of Award	17 Oct 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Alexandra Leitão (Supervisor) & Leonardo Costa (Co-Supervisor)