The Flemish government has updated its Energy and Climate Plan (VEKP) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2023. The plan includes abolishing subsidies for new fossil natural
gas condensing boilers and extending subsidies for heat pumps. The kilometre charge for lorries will be extended in transport, but zero-emission trucks over 3.5 tonnes will be exempt. In addition, specific new or used zero-emission cars and providers of partial mobility will be supported through a support mechanism.
The government will also readjust the enteric emissions pact for cattle to reduce greenhouse gases. Flanders aims to increase renewable energy targets by 12% compared to 2019. However, the government will not introduce new support mechanisms, but instead will increase wind and solar energy through procedural changes.
The Climate Coalition expressed dissatisfaction with the government's efforts, calling them unambitious and stating that Flanders is the only country that does not want to participate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions drastically. They argue that the government is not listening to climate scientists and experts. The effects of climate change are already being felt in Flanders, and the Klimaatcoalitie warns that they may worsen if more action is not taken.