Loopholes over leadership

2040 Climate Target: EU Governments Choose Loopholes Over Leadership

Following lengthy discussions at the Environmental Council Meeting, EU national governments prioritized short-term political gains over scientific accuracy, environmental protection, and social responsibility. They failed to commit to a loophole-free domestic target of a 90% net reduction in emissions, which scientists consider the bare minimum necessary.

This lack of a strong commitment puts the EU at risk of missing its climate goals, slowing green investments, and damaging its credibility in international climate negotiations, warns the European Environmental Bureau, the largest network of environmental NGOs in the EU.

Mathieu Mal, Policy Officer for Agriculture and Climate, stated: "To support global climate action, the EU must lead by example. Today, national governments failed to do so, instead pushing for a watered-down climate target, riddled with debilitating flexibilities and not grounded in scientific advice. Without a robust target of at least 90% net emission reductions, to be implemented within our own borders, the EU not only risks delaying vital investments in the transition at home, but also jeopardises its international credibility at the upcoming COP30 negotiations."

In recent months, national governments have submitted their own wish lists for the 2040 climate target, exerting pressure on the EU Commission. This influenced the Commission to propose a weakened version of the climate target.

Summary

The EU’s failure to adopt a strong, loophole-free 2040 climate target threatens its environmental commitments and global leadership on climate action.

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European Environmental Bureau European Environmental Bureau — 2025-11-06

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