The Commission has proposed an amendment to the EU Climate Law, setting a 2040 EU climate target of 90% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions, compared to 1990 levels. It will give certainty to investors and innovation, strengthen industrial leadership of EU businesses, and increase Europe's energy security.
85% of Europeans believe climate change is a serious problem and 81% support the EU's goal of reaching climate neutrality by 2050, according to a recent survey. The EU is currently on track to meet its next target of a 55% reduction by 2030. The new proposal builds on this legally binding goal and sets out a more pragmatic and flexible way to reach the 2040 target.
The proposed 2040 climate target takes into account the current economic, security and geopolitical landscape. It emphasises the importance of accelerating and strengthening the right enabling conditions to achieve the target and is
- aligned with the EU Competitiveness Compass, Clean Industrial Deal and Affordable Energy Action Plan
- based on an in-depth impact assessment and advice from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change.
The Commission has also published a Communication on delivering the first proposals on the Clean Industrial Deal. It provides an overview of the first actions delivered, progress made and remaining measures. Its implementation is crucial towards the 2040 climate target.
The Commission's proposal will now be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council for discussion and adoption under the ordinary legislative procedure. A future agreed EU climate target will also serve as a benchmark for the post-2030 EU policy framework.
The EU Climate Law entered into force in July 2021. It enshrines in legislation the EU's commitment to reach climate neutrality by 2050.
For more information
Press release: Climate Law 2040 targets
