The European Commission has announced its intention to propose a new climate target for 2040 by the end of March 2025. This target aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% compared to 1990 levels, as part of the EU’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
This proposal will serve as an amendment to the European Climate Law, which provides the legal framework for achieving these goals.
The 90% reduction includes a split between emission reductions and carbon removals, allowing up to 400 million tons of CO₂ removals from the atmosphere, while capping emissions at 850 million tons.
The 2040 target will also guide the establishment of a 2035 milestone, which EU member states are expected to present as part of their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The target aligns with recommendations from the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change, which suggested a reduction range of 90-95% for compatibility with limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
While ambitious, this target reflects ongoing debates about balancing industrial competitiveness, administrative simplifications, and maintaining progress under the European Green Deal.