ApC: The First Agency Dedicated to Climate in Portugal

The Climate Agency (ApC) is the first entity in Portugal dedicated exclusively to climate issues. Created by Decree-Law No. 122/2024 of 31 December, ApC began operating on 1 January 2025, with the goal of accelerating decarbonisation and climate adaptation, aligned with the target of carbon neutrality by 2045.

Main functions

• Coordinating decarbonisation in key sectors: transport, industry, buildings, energy and agriculture
• Administering environmental funds, such as Fundo Ambiental (created in 2017) and Fundo Azul (created in 2016)
• Overseeing carbon markets, managing the Portuguese Emission Allowance Registry (RPLE) and SNIERPA
• Promoting climate innovation and taking part in international climate negotiations

The agency has a team of around 120 to 130 employees, integrating competencies previously assigned to the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) and the Secretary-General for the Environment, reinforcing Portugal's position as a European reference in climate action.