ABSTRACT
Every self-respecting city has defined its CO2 targets and a sustainable energy policy. This is because energy from coal, mineral oil and natural gas (fossil sources) accounts for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions. The Covenant of Mayors (the European partnership of local and regional governments), following the line of the European Union, has set targets for 2030 and aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20 percent as compared to 1990 levels, to save 20percent of energy and to generate 20 percent renewable energy. In fact, a number of Dutch municipalities aim for more. The Municipality of The Hague is following the national policy that aims for a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and 20 percent for energy savings and energy from renewable sources. Amsterdam aims for a 40 percent reduction in CO2 emissions by 2025 with respect to 1990, while Rotterdam aims to emit no less than 50 percent CO2 reduction by 2025. Haarlem is even aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030.
