EU Leaders Consider Loophole in 2040 Climate Target Amid Concerns Over Costs, Competitiveness.
European Union leaders are seeking a revision clause in the bloc’s new climate change target, potentially allowing future adjustments, according to draft conclusions for a summit on Thursday. The EU’s 2040 climate goal, which aims to cut net emissions by 90% compared with 1990 levels, has sparked debate over how to balance ambitious environmental policies with priorities such as defence and industrial revitalisation.
Draft conclusions, seen by Reuters, propose that leaders and lawmakers proceed with setting the 2040 target but include conditions allowing revisions “in light of the latest scientific evidence, technological advances, and evolving challenges to the EU’s global competitiveness.”
Countries including Poland have argued that a revision clause is necessary in case green technologies do not develop as expected or economic constraints prevent the required investments. France and Latvia also raised concerns that forests and agricultural lands may struggle to absorb enough CO2 emissions, partly due to climate-driven wildfires.
While the European Commission stresses that ambitious targets are crucial for ensuring industrial competitiveness and protecting countries from extreme weather, it has also suggested weakening certain green laws, such as the corporate sustainability law and upcoming carbon pricing for transport and heating fuels, to address pushback from some member states.
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