Brussels: The European Union (EU) has finalized a climate target for 2040, but in a move that has drawn criticism from scientists and environmental groups, the agreement significantly weakens its original ambition. The deal comes as EU leaders rush to present a unified stance ahead of the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), scheduled to take place later this year in Brazil.
After intense negotiations spanning several months, EU member-state ministers approved a target aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2040 compared with 1990 levels. However, the agreement includes provisions allowing countries to offset up to 5 percent of their reductions through foreign carbon credits, effectively lowering the domestic reduction target to around 85 percent. Additional flexibility allows for the use of international carbon credits in the future, further diluting the overall domestic commitment.
An interim target for 2035 was also established, requiring EU nations to reduce emissions by 66.25 to 72.5 percent. The deal also delays the launch of the next phase of the EU carbon market to 2028, a decision that critics argue could slow investment in low-carbon technologies and green industry transitions across Europe.
The compromise emerged amid stark divisions within the EU. Countries including Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary opposed a stricter target, citing economic risks, high energy costs, and fears that industry competitiveness would be undermined. In contrast, nations such as France and Portugal advocated for maintaining some flexibility through the inclusion of foreign carbon credits to ensure broader consensus.
“Setting a climate target is not just picking a number; it is a political decision with far-reaching consequences for the continent,” said a senior EU official.
Polish Deputy Minister Krzysztof Bolesta added, “We don’t want to destroy the economy. We don’t want to destroy the climate. We want to save both at the same time.”
Environmental groups and independent scientific advisers have voiced concern that the new target falls short of what climate science deems necessary. While a full domestic reduction of 90 percent would have aligned more closely with scientific recommendations, the allowance for international credits may reduce domestic action and investment in clean energy initiatives.
The timing of the deal ensures that the EU will enter COP30 with a headline climate goal. However, observers warn that the weakened targets could compromise Europe’s leadership in global climate negotiations, especially as other major emitters watch closely. Key issues to follow include the balance between domestic and international reductions, the delayed carbon market reforms, and whether member states can deliver on their 2035 interim obligations.
The EU’s compromise highlights the ongoing tension between ambition and economic considerations in climate policy, underscoring the complex challenge of achieving meaningful emissions reductions while maintaining industrial competitiveness and energy security.