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EU presents climate law: 90% fewer emissions by 2040!
The EU Commission presents its 2040 climate target to drastically reduce greenhouse gases. Heat wave in Europe increases the urgency.
EU presents climate law: 90% fewer emissions by 2040!
On July 3, 2025, the EU Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, presented the climate target for 2040. On a day when record temperatures of up to 37 degrees were recorded in Brussels and other European cities, the proposal was presented in response to increasing extreme weather events, further exacerbated by climate change. The heat wave is perceived as one of the hottest days of the year, underlining the urgency of the issue. The EU is forced to take climate action as climate change is increasingly perceived as a reality and many Europeans are suffering as a result.
The new legislative proposal aims to reduce net emissions of climate-damaging greenhouse gases in the EU by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990. This target is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at making the EU climate neutral by 2050. The proposal to reduce emissions by 90% is seen by the EU Commissioners as a necessary step to support the requirements of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Controversial climate law
However, the new climate law is controversial. Although the EU Climate Advisory Council recommends setting the 90% target as the minimum target for 2040, there is disagreement among member states and in the European Parliament. Countries such as France, Italy and Poland express concerns, while the Danish EU Council Presidency generally supports the goal. Political changes after the European elections have influenced the climate of discussion about climate measures. An increasing focus on economic aspects has led the Commission to weaken or withdraw some laws, particularly under pressure from the EPP Group.
The federal government has pledged its support for the 2040 target on the condition that regulations for financing climate projects in non-EU countries are introduced in order to compensate for emissions. From 2036, EU states should be able to finance such projects, with a maximum of three percent of emissions being covered by these projects. However, the EU Climate Advisory Council warns against “buying out” one’s own efforts, which could lead to further debates.
Public support and next steps
Despite the disagreement among member states, a Eurobarometer survey shows that 80% of EU citizens support the goal of climate neutrality by 2050. The EU plans to submit the 2040 target to the United Nations in late summer. The first stages of the strategy envisage reducing emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990. These measures include a reduction in the consumption of coal, oil and gas as well as an increased use of renewable energies from solar, wind and water and an expansion of emissions trading.
The challenges that lie ahead of the EU are enormous. The coming debates in Parliament and among Member States will be crucial to developing a coherent and effective climate policy. The clock is ticking and climate change remains a pressing issue that requires immediate and effective action.
As EU countries continue to face the task of acting in line with climate goals, citizens and experts are closely monitoring developments. The question of whether the goals set can be achieved and whether the Member States are prepared to take the necessary steps to secure the future remains open.
The EU Commission has proven once again that the issue of climate protection remains on the political agenda, even if the road to get there is rocky. The hope is that the measures taken can lead to serious progress and increase confidence in a sustainable future.