EU Court Rules Nuclear Energy is Clean Energy Overview The European Court of Justice has recently dismissed Austria’s lawsuit challenging the classification of nuclear energy as part of the EU Sustainable Finance Taxonomy. This ruling upholds nuclear energy’s status as a clean, sustainable energy source within EU green finance rules. Background In 2023, Austria filed a legal action against the European Commission opposing the inclusion of nuclear energy in the EU’s sustainable finance framework. Austria was initially supported by several EU countries and environmental NGOs against nuclear power. Anti-nuclear stances have softened across Europe: Germany is reconsidering its anti-nuclear policies. Phase-outs or bans in the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Denmark, and Italy have ended. Youth movements like Fridays for Future have quieted their opposition or embraced nuclear power in some areas. Significance of the Court Ruling Confirms nuclear energy meets scientific and environmental standards of sustainability. Reinforces strong safety cultures and regulations that keep nuclear power among the safest energy sources. Signals likely defeat for Greenpeace’s ongoing lawsuit against the EU Commission, which questions nuclear’s clean status. Greenpeace Reaction Greenpeace Germany’s Executive Director called the ruling “a dark day for the climate.” Despite scientific evidence and the court’s decision, Greenpeace insists on opposing nuclear energy. The Bigger Climate Context Global emissions are not falling quickly enough to tackle the climate crisis. Billions still lack access to clean, reliable electricity. Defending proven clean energy solutions like nuclear power is essential to accelerate emissions cuts. Role of WePlanet and Activists The author reflects on launching “Dear Greenpeace” two years ago to challenge anti-nuclear opposition. Notes substantial progress defending nuclear power in the EU and globally: Overturned outdated policies at the World Bank. Secured more neutral language regarding nuclear energy in UN discussions. Emphasizes ongoing challenges ahead: Need to overturn national nuclear bans. Increase funding for nuclear development. Expand clean energy support globally, especially in regions counteracting Russia’s influence. Conclusion Austria’s defeat isolates it among few remaining anti-nuclear countries. The court's decision marks a milestone for the global clean energy transition. The fight continues to ensure every country has clean, reliable energy for a dignified standard of living worldwide. Call to Action The movement urges continued support and advocacy. Encourages scaling of science-backed nuclear energy solutions to address climate change effectively. --- Author: Ia Aanstoot, WePlanet Published: 10 minutes ago Estimated reading time: 3 minutes Additional info WePlanet is a global grassroots movement of scientists and citizens campaigning for scalable, scientifically-backed solutions to climate and nature emergencies. Registered Not-for-Profit in Belgium. Website: weplanet.org --- Related Links and Campaigns Dear Greenpeace: Campaign page WePlanet’s vision: Our Vision Work with us: Jobs Contact us: Contact page Donate: Donate today --- Visuals Included Youth climate activists with signs such as “Dear Greenpeace You can’t power the future with hope” and “Fight Fossils Not Nuclear.” Images from events supporting nuclear energy in the climate fight. --- Summary: The EU’s top court has firmly designated nuclear energy as clean energy, rejecting Austria’s opposition. This milestone encourages wider acceptance of