ENVI Supports Major Simplification of EU CBAM

      On May 12, 2025, the European Parliament's Committee on Environment, Climate Change and Food Safety (ENVI) endorsed the European Commission's proposal to simplify the EU CBAM. This simplification package, known as ‘Omnibus I,’ was introduced in February 2025 to improve the efficiency and accessibity of CBAM. 

      MEPs approved several technical clarifications aimed at streamlining the implementation of CBAM. A significant change is the introduction of a new de minimis threshold of 50 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year, exempting around 90% of importers (who are mostly small and medium-sized enterprises and individuals who import small quantities) from CBAM obligations. Despite this exemption, the mechanism will continue to cover approximately 99% of CO2 emissions from imports in sectors such as iron, steel, aluminium, cement, and fertilisers.

      The proposal also simplifies the authorization process for declarants, enhances emissions calculation methods, and improves the management of financial liabilities. Additionally, it strengthens measures to prevent abuse of the system, ensuring its integrity and effectiveness. Rapporteur Antonio Decaro emphasized the importance of balancing simplification with maintaining the environmental integrity of CBAM to effectively prevent carbon leakage. The full European Parliament is schedued to vote on the negotiation mandate on May 22, 2025. Looking ahead, the European Commission plans to review the possibility of extending CBAM's scope to other high-risk sectors in early 2026. This ongoing development reflects the EU's commitment to driving global climate ambition and supporting a just transition to a low-carbon economy.

From: https://www.fastener-world.com/en/article/9125.html