National Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Working program 2021-2025

Enacted in 2021, this law establishes Spain's legal framework for achieving climate neutrality by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. It mandates a 23% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels), alongside ambitious renewable energy targets, including 42% of final energy consumption from renewables and 74% renewable electricity generation by 2030. Energy efficiency measures aim for a 39.5% reduction in primary energy consumption within the same timeframe. The law also prohibits new hydrocarbon and radioactive mineral exploitation, requires emission-free transport systems in cities with populations exceeding 50,000, and emphasises sustainable urban mobility.

The legislation includes a national Just Transition Strategy to ensure equitable economic opportunities, particularly for vulnerable regions, while fostering adaptation and resilience to climate risks across critical sectors such as water, biodiversity, and health. It creates governance mechanisms like the Expert Committee on Climate Change and Energy Transition to monitor progress and updates to Spain's Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC). Projecting investments exceeding €200 billion by 2030, the law is expected to enhance Spain’s GDP by €16.5–25.7 billion annually and generate 250,000–350,000 new jobs. The focus on education, innovation, and public awareness underscores its commitment to a holistic and inclusive transition.

This collection represent a body of policies, strategies, and plans enacted under this law. 

Law 7/2021 on climate change and energy transition [Spain]

Laws and Policies

CCLW

CCLW national policies

Published

The Spanish government, recognising the urgency demanded by scientific consensus on climate action, has established a comprehensive legal framework to address climate change. Central to this effort is the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNACC) 2021–2030, the primary tool for coordinating national adaptation strategies. This framework is implemented through five-year Work Programmes, with the first covering 2021–2025. The Work Programme outlines 257 measures and 11 sub-measures addressing 85 of the 88 action lines defined in the PNACC. These measures span diverse sectors, including health, water resources, biodiversity, urban planning, and energy, while incorporating cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, social vulnerability, and climate risk prevention. Responsibilities are distributed across national ministries, regional governments, and local authorities, ensuring a collaborative approach to adaptation. The programme’s design aims to mobilise public and private actors, ensuring alignment with broader societal and environmental goals, while advancing Spain’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development.