The Netherlands in second place on list of countries with best climate policies

The climate policy of recent years has resulted in the Netherlands being amongst the top tier of the Climate Change Performance Index. Only Denmark scores higher on this annual list that assesses countries on reducing their CO2 emissions, expanding their sustainable energy supply, and their climate policies in general.

The researchers start their list with fourth place. They deliberately keep the first three places empty: they are reserved for countries that score "very high" in all areas. Currently, none of the 63 countries surveyed achieves a high enough rating for a podium spot. Together, the countries on the list are responsible for 90 percent of global emissions.

The Netherlands has risen sharply in recent years. Four years ago, the country was in 29th place. This year they were in fifth place, three places higher than a year ago.

Researchers from the scientific NewClimate Institute create the index together with the umbrella organization Climate Action Network and environmental organization Germanwatch. The authors note that although the Netherlands is currently scoring well, the new Cabinet wants to weaken or abolish various measures, such as the netting scheme for solar power.

The climate goals for 2030 and 2050 will remain in place, but the researchers point out that under the previous government, it was already doubtful whether they would be achieved.

Iran scored the lowest in the world, and Saudi Arabia occupies the penultimate place. The United Arab Emirates and Russia are also among the lowest-scoring countries