The EU Commission has replied to a written question from MEP Pascal Arimont (EPP, Belgium) on whether it plans to introduce specific regulatory or fiscal measures targeting emissions linked to very carbon-intensive lifestyles, including private jets, yachts, multiple homes and frequent flying.

In its reply, the Commission states that “social and distributional aspects are addressed in EU climate policies” and that the polluter-pays principle is already reflected in existing EU instruments. It notes that private jets are already covered by the EU Emissions Trading System above certain thresholds, and that the ETS has applied to aviation since 2012.

On maritime transport, the Commission recalls that the EU ETS has applied since 2024 and includes yachts above 5,000 gross tonnage when emissions arise from voyages for commercial purposes. It adds that it will evaluate the climate impact of currently exempted small maritime and aviation operators and “may propose additional measures as appropriate”. The reply also notes that some Member States have voluntarily opted in emissions from leisure boats under ETS2.

The Commission further refers to the proposed revision of the Energy Taxation Directive, which would broaden the scope of energy taxation to additional sectors including aviation and maritime by removing existing exemptions. The proposal remains under discussion in the Council.