EU States and lawmakers approve 2040 climate target
European Union negotiators and lawmakers reached an overnight agreement confirming the bloc’s climate goal for 2040, introducing several flexibilities including the use of international carbon credits.
Although the deal required discussions between the 27 member states and the European Parliament, the outcome was widely expected, as both sides had adopted similar positions ahead of the talks. The EU is maintaining its commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, compared with 1990 levels. By 2023, emissions had already fallen by roughly 37%.
To address concerns raised by countries such as Italy, the agreement allows the EU to meet up to 5% of its target through the purchase of carbon credits that would support decarbonization projects outside Europe. Environmental organizations have criticized this option, arguing that it shifts the climate burden beyond the continent instead of reducing emissions at home.
The compromise also includes a review clause that could enable the addition of further international carbon credits after 2030—potentially making up another 5% of the total effort required.
Under pressure from governments such as Poland and Hungary, EU negotiators agreed to delay the expansion of the carbon market to road transport and building heating systems by one year, pushing the start date from 2027 to 2028.
Despite these concessions, EU officials emphasize that the bloc remains a global leader in climate action and continues to work toward its overarching objective of climate neutrality by 2050. While far behind China, the EU remains the world’s fourth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, after the United States and India.
The agreement must still receive final approval from member states and the full European Parliament.
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