European Union countries have officially endorsed a stringent target to slash net greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2040, compared to 1990 levels, marking a significant amendment to the EU Climate Law. This move pushes the EU closer to its overarching goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The measure, approved during a council meeting in Brussels, showcased a strong majority support from EU ministers, despite opposition from countries such as Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary. These dissenting nations voiced concerns about potential economic and social consequences, particularly for heavy industry, lower-income households, and farmers.
Opponents warn that the swift decarbonization could lead to higher energy prices and job losses in carbon-heavy sectors, potentially causing voter backlash. However, the political compromise stands out as one of the most ambitious global commitments, surpassing those from other major economies like China. Policymakers have built flexibility into the agreement by allowing countries to use up to 5 percent of their targets through high-quality international carbon credits under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The plan also includes delayed implementation of the Emissions Trading System 2 and biennial reviews to assess progress and adjust targets as needed.
Environmental groups have largely welcomed the EU’s ambitious plan. Stientje van Veldhoven, Vice President and Regional Director of Europe for the World Resources Institute, praised the approval, highlighting its significance as a pivotal step toward climate neutrality. She noted that this commitment, finalized just ahead of the COP30 summit, demonstrates the EU’s resolve to contribute meaningfully to the global climate agenda and underscores the importance of climate action for Europe’s economic future.
This development follows an earlier phase where the 90 percent reduction target had been scrutinized for being insufficient, with critics pointing to potential reliance on creative accounting practices. Notably, the EU Parliament officially endorsed the European Green Deal in June 2021. The current agreement emerged from negotiations that began in June 2025, aiming to replace parts of the EU Climate Law. Impressively, it sets interim goals of reducing net GHG emissions by 66.25-72.5% below 1990 levels by 2035.
The EU’s commitment to this ambitious target is available for further reading at JURIST. This landmark decision signifies a critical juncture in the EU’s climate policy, reflecting both internal challenges and a strong collective dedication to global climate leadership.