Statistics from Eurostat show that the Baltic states more than halved their greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 to 2012. 

In 1990, Lithuania’s greenhouse emissions were 49 million tons, with 2012 statistics showing they fell to 21 million tons, a reduction of 55.6% for the period.

Estonia reduced theirs from 41 million tons in 1990 to 19 million tons in 2012, a reduction of 52.6%.

The best performer in the Baltics states and throughout Europe was Latvia, who reduced their greenhouse gas emissions from 26 million tons to 11 million tons, a reduction of 57.1%.

The report released by Eurostat, shows that Baltic greenhouse gas reductions were the three best in Europe, with Romania and Bulgaria coming in fourth and fifth. They reduced their emissions from 1990 to 2012 by 52% and 44% respectively.

By 2013, 20 European Union member states had already met the targets set for 2020.

The transport sector remains the biggest challenge in the fight against greenhouse gases within the European Union. The industry represents two thirds of greenhouse gas emissions, and has required a change of focus towards improving public transport networks in European Union member states.