EU sets fresh 2040 climate target to cut emissions by 90%

EU sets fresh 2040 climate target to cut emissions by 90%
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the commitment to decarbonize the economy by 2050, describing the 2040 target as pragmatic and realistic, Anadolu Agency reported. The new target builds on the existing 2030 goal of reducing emissions by at least 55%, introducing flexibilities such as limited use of international carbon credits after 2036 and integration of carbon removals into the EU Emissions Trading System.

To support this ambition, the Commission unveiled the Clean Industrial Deal, which includes revised state aid frameworks, tax incentives, and simplified rules under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to encourage clean energy investments and reduce carbon leakage.

Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra highlighted that the target strengthens the EU’s competitiveness, security, and climate goals, calling decarbonization a “powerful growth engine” that will reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports. The proposal will now be debated by the European Parliament and Council before adoption.