EU benchmark carbon price breaches 60 euros/T for the first time

OSLO, Aug 30 (Reuters) - The European benchmark price for carbon allowances on Monday morning climbed above 60 euros per tonne for the first time since the European Union's carbon market launched in 2005.

The December 21 EUA contract touched a high of 61.01 euros per tonne. It traded at 60.28 euros per tonne by 0714 GMT.

The EU's Emissions Trading System is the bloc's main tool for curbing greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change, forcing power plants, industry and airlines running flights within Europe to buy permits when they pollute. (Reporting by Nora Buli; Editing by Edmund Blair)