The European Commission has proposed an amendment to the EU Climate Law, aiming for a 90% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. This proposal aligns with the Commission Political Guidelines for 2024-2029 and aims to provide certainty for investors, strengthen industrial leadership, and enhance Europe’s energy security. Recent data from Eurobarometer indicates strong public support for EU climate initiatives.
The proposal builds on the existing goal of reducing emissions by at least 55% by 2030 and outlines a flexible approach towards achieving a decarbonized economy by 2050. The plan is aligned with the EU Competitiveness Compass, Clean Industrial Deal, and Affordable Energy Action Plan. It considers current economic and geopolitical factors, offering predictability for businesses involved in the clean energy transition.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated: “As European citizens increasingly feel the impact of climate change, they expect Europe to act. Industry and investors look to us to set a predictable direction of travel. Today we show that we stand firmly by our commitment to decarbonise European economy by 2050. The goal is clear, the journey is pragmatic and realistic.”
The proposal follows consultations with various stakeholders and includes flexibility measures such as high-quality international credits starting from 2036 and domestic permanent removals in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). These are designed to help achieve targets cost-effectively while ensuring social fairness.
Additionally, it emphasizes accelerating enabling conditions for this target through competitive industry practices and fair transitions. The proposal also sets a framework for post-2030 climate legislation focusing on cost-effectiveness and technological neutrality.
In support of these goals, the Commission released a Communication on delivering initial proposals under the Clean Industrial Deal. This includes a State Aid Framework supporting clean energy investments and simplifying mechanisms like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
The EU’s proposed target sends a global message about its commitment to climate action ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil. The Commission will work with the Council Presidency to finalize communication regarding Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The proposal will be submitted to the European Parliament and Council for discussion under ordinary legislative procedures. A future agreed-upon target will guide post-2030 policy frameworks.
The European Climate Law mandates an intermediate target for 2040 following December 2023’s Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement.
Anna-Kaisa Itkonen serves as spokesperson (+32 2 29 57501; [email protected]) alongside Press Officer Ana Crespo Parrondo (+32 2 29 81325; [email protected]).
