European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels on Thursday to debate how to sustain ambitious climate targets while keeping European industries competitive. The discussion comes as the bloc seeks agreement on a proposed target to cut net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, part of its long-term plan to reach carbon neutrality. The summit takes place amid weakening global climate momentum notably with U.S. President Donald Trump rolling back emissions policies and growing political fatigue across Europe toward costly green measures.
Why It Matters
The 2040 target is a major test of the EU’s ability to balance environmental leadership with economic realities. While Brussels argues that the green transition is key to reviving industries and reducing dependence on Chinese imports, several countries fear the cost of implementation could undermine growth, competitiveness, and energy security. The debate reflects broader unease about Europe’s climate strategy as it juggles defence spending, industrial revitalization, and rising energy prices. The outcome will shape not only the EU’s climate credibility but also its position ahead of the upcoming COP30 U.N. climate summit.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen framed the climate shift as an opportunity for Europe to reindustrialize sustainably and cut reliance on external suppliers. However, divisions within the bloc run deep. Poland, Czech Republic, and France are pushing for flexibility, including a “revision clause” that would allow the EU to weaken targets if economic conditions worsen or technology lags. Germany and Italy are lobbying to ease the 2035 combustion engine ban, while Brussels has already softened or delayed several green measures such as exempting small farmers from deforestation rules and adjusting the carbon pricing system. Environmental advocates warn that repeated concessions risk hollowing out the EU’s climate ambitions.
What’s Next
Leaders are expected to endorse the 2040 emissions goal in principle but attach conditions that could dilute its strength. The European Council’s draft conclusions suggest ministers will finalize the details at a November 4 meeting, just before COP30. If approved, the deal will mark another step toward the EU’s Green Deal agenda, but the inclusion of revision clauses and potential use of foreign carbon credits could weaken enforcement. For now, Brussels must navigate between maintaining climate credibility and preventing economic backlash a balancing act that will define the EU’s environmental path for the next two decades.
With information from Reuters.