This book examines the long, complicated and turbulent history of the EU Emissions Trading System. First adopted in 2003 and widely regarded as a cornerstone of EU climate and energy policy, the scheme has recently been heralded by ministers around Europe as a success. But is this a fair assessment? And can these successes be maintained in the future, especially with the growth of populist parties in Europe, many of which place the rollback of climate policies at the heart of their political agendas? This book looks to answer these questions, and to assess whether the Emissions Trading System can continue to operate to achieve the EU's long-term net-zero ambitions. It will appeal to all those interested in climate and energy policy, European politics, and populism studies. 

Jørgen Wettestad is Research Professor at the Fridtjof Nansen Institute in Oslo, Norway.