Preliminary data released on the 15 of April on the European Union's greenhouse gas emissions for 2006 show a downward trend in overall EU emissions. In 2006 greenhouse gas emissions continued their downward trend. 

The figures show that in comparison to a base year - 1990 for most gases – the 15 Member States which share the EU Kyoto target, reduced their collective emissions by 2.7%. This puts the EU on the way of meeting its Kyoto target of – 8 % as compared to 1990. For the 27 EU Member States emissions were reduced by 7.4% compared to 1990. But compared to their respective base year emissions, which for some Member States differ from 1990, reductions for the 27 EU Member States stood at 10.5%. 

Despite the good results, Commissioner Dimas urged Member States to reinforce their efforts and apply all measures necessary for meeting the EU’s climate change goals. The data, which was compiled by the European Environment Agency (EEA) has been submitted to the United Nations' Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).