Written by Contexte
13 March 2026

At the European Parliament, an EPP member supports reducing CO₂ emissions through a flexible approach that preserves business competitiveness and opposes a transition that is too rapid, while the group’s overall position is still being shaped and may evolve through dialogue with Renew Europe.

Before the parliamentary recess, on 20 February 2026, the media outlet Contexte met with Martin Bonnaud, vice-chair of the European People’s Party (EPP) group for Hungary and a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment (ENVI).

“Flexibility is really the key word,”

At the European Parliament, discussions around the new proposals on CO₂ emissions are only just beginning, and political positions are still taking shape. Within the European People’s Party (EPP), the emerging line emphasises a central principle: flexibility. “Flexibility is really the key word,” the MEP explains.

He says he supports the general direction of the European Commission’s proposal to reduce CO₂ emissions, while insisting on the need to avoid measures that would be too restrictive for businesses. According to him, the aim is to introduce “measures that allow the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions while not being too constraining for our companies.” The objective, therefore, is to strike a balance between environmental ambition and maintaining economic competitiveness.

“I would firmly oppose a transition that is too fast“

This cautious approach is also explained by the industrial realities of certain member states. As a Hungarian representative, he notes that Hungary still has a large fleet of internal combustion engine vehicles. In this context, “I would firmly oppose a transition that is too fast,” he says, arguing that a rapid shift could weaken industrial actors and harm the country’s competitiveness.

Within the EPP, however, a common position has not yet been finalised. “It is still a bit early to speak with one voice,” he acknowledges. As the largest group in the European Parliament, the EPP includes many members whose views have not yet all been heard.

In the upcoming negotiations, Renew Europe could play a decisive role. Convergences may emerge around the issue of European sovereignty and the protection of European industries from foreign competition, particularly from China. According to him, “playing on that chord could help open a dialogue.”

MEP Martin Bonnaud also says he is satisfied that the European Commission has stepped back from some positions previously considered too ambitious. However, the EPP intends to table amendments in order to adjust the text and maintain a balance between economic competitiveness and climate objectives.

At this stage, parliamentary work remains largely internal. No official contact has yet been established with either the European Commission or the Council of the European Union, as discussions are still focused on analysing the proposals and shaping positions within the political groups of the European Parliament.

“For the moment, I have not personally been approached [by lobbyists].”

Lobbyists, who are often active in such legislative debates, do not appear to be directly involved for now. “For the moment, I have not personally been approached,” Martin Bonnaud says, explaining that the group is currently concentrating on its own internal discussions.

Within the EPP, these exchanges are continuing even though participation in meetings can vary. While not all members are always physically present, Bonnaud says the objective is to ensure that everyone remains informed as the group gradually refines its position on the proposals.