What Agreement Did the EU Council Reach on the European Climate Law?
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Synopsis
In a significant step towards climate action, the EU Council has reached an agreement on amending the European climate law, setting ambitious emission-reduction targets for 2035. This agreement lays the groundwork for future negotiations with the European Parliament and reinforces the EU's commitment to sustainability and climate neutrality by 2050.
Key Takeaways
- The EU Council has reached an agreement on amending the European climate law.
- New targets aim for a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040.
- This agreement is a key step towards achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
- Members will assess progress every two years.
- The agreement supports the European Green Deal initiatives across various sectors.
Brussels, Nov 6 (NationPress) The European Union (EU) Council announced that its member states have successfully reached an agreement regarding the amendment of the European climate law, alongside the approval of revised emission-reduction targets for 2035 applicable to both the EU and its member countries.
As outlined in the document, the Council upheld the European Commission's proposal to establish a 2040 interim climate target, aiming for a 90 percent reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions when compared to 1990 levels, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
This document delineates the Council's stance for future negotiations with the European Parliament, which will influence the final wording of the legislation.
It also specifies certain areas of flexibility present in the Commission's proposal and introduces a biennial evaluation to monitor progress towards these intermediate targets.
On the same day, the Council sanctioned an updated nationally determined contribution of the EU and its member states, which is scheduled to be presented ahead of COP30 in Brazil.
Initially adopted in 2021, the European climate law aims for climate neutrality by 2050 and sets a target for 2030 to reduce net emissions by at least 55 percent relative to 1990 levels.
The European Commission proposed an amendment to the law in July to establish a target for 2040.
In 2019, the EU introduced the European Green Deal, a comprehensive growth strategy comprising a series of policy initiatives designed to steer the EU towards a green transition. Its ultimate goal is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, emphasizing social equity and solidarity, ensuring that no individual or region is left behind.
Under the framework of the European Green Deal, all policy sectors are expected to contribute to combating climate change while supporting initiatives across various economic fields, including energy, transportation, industry, construction, environment, agriculture, sustainable finance, circular economy, health, and more.
Point of View
The recent agreement by the EU Council marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to address climate change. By setting clear targets and establishing a framework for evaluation, the EU is demonstrating its commitment to leading global climate initiatives while ensuring that all member states contribute to this critical cause.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new emission-reduction targets set by the EU?
The EU Council has set updated emission-reduction targets for 2035, aiming for a 90 percent reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
What is the significance of the European climate law?
The European climate law is crucial for achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and sets interim targets to monitor progress in reducing emissions across the EU.
What is the European Green Deal?
The European Green Deal is a comprehensive strategy introduced by the EU in 2019, aimed at promoting a green transition and ensuring social fairness while combating climate change.
