The European Commission has put forward a new amendment to the EU Climate Law, proposing a binding target to cut net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. This move marks a major step in the EU’s long-term climate strategy and reinforces its commitment to achieving full climate neutrality by 2050.
The proposal aims to provide greater certainty for investors and innovators, while boosting the competitiveness of European industry and strengthening the region’s energy security. It builds on the current legally binding target of a 55% emissions cut by 2030, a goal the EU is on course to meet.
The new 2040 target takes into account recent shifts in the economic, security and geopolitical landscape, and is designed to be both pragmatic and flexible. According to the Commission, reaching the target will require faster and stronger support measures to enable clean industrial growth and sustainable energy systems across the bloc.
This approach is closely tied to several ongoing EU strategies, including the Clean Industrial Deal, the EU Competitiveness Compass, and the Affordable Energy Action Plan. The Commission has also published a new Communication outlining the progress made so far under the Clean Industrial Deal, highlighting its role in delivering the 2040 climate objective.
The proposed target is backed by an in-depth impact assessment and reflects scientific advice from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change. Public support remains high, with a recent survey showing that 85% of Europeans view climate change as a serious issue and 81% support the EU’s aim of reaching climate neutrality by mid-century.
The Commission’s proposal will now go to the European Parliament and the Council for debate and approval through the standard legislative process. Once adopted, the 2040 target will shape the EU’s climate policy beyond 2030, serving as a benchmark for future regulations and investment decisions.
The EU Climate Law, in force since July 2021, legally commits the bloc to becoming climate neutral by 2050, positioning Europe as a global leader in environmental policy.
