Proceduralization of EU Climate Governance: Advancing Understanding of the Implementation Challenge

Abstract

As the European Union moves from adopting to implementing the ‘Fit for 55’ legislative package, attention turns to the effectiveness of its climate governance framework. This article critically examines the EU procedural climate governance framework, particularly the Governance Regulation and the European Climate Law, to assess how procedural mechanisms support or hinder translating ambitious climate targets into legitimate outcomes. EU reliance on Member States for implementation is closely tied to the proceduralization of climate law. While these mechanisms aim to enhance governance quality, they also generate tensions: they may fall short of ensuring substantive accountability, and the complexity of climate legislation can undermine legitimate governance. To address these challenges, the framework must evolve into a more outcome-oriented model. Proceduralization, if reimagined, can help navigate the complex and shifting climate policy landscape by striking a better balance between legitimacy, stability, and adaptability.