The European Union’s climate target for 2040, initially expected in the first quarter of 2025, will now be announced in the second quarter of that year, according to European Commission Vice-President Teresa Ribera.
The delay comes amid ongoing debates over the pace and scale of climate action needed to bridge the gap between the EU’s 2030 target of a 55% CO2 reduction and its 2050 net-zero goal.
The 2040 target is crucial for defining the trajectory of the EU’s climate efforts. While climate scientists advocate for more aggressive cuts to combat global warming, others warn that overly ambitious targets could harm the economy. The tension has led to delays in finalising the proposal.
Ribera confirmed the revised timeline during a meeting with members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in Brussels, stating that the updated goals will be issued in the second half of 2025, as outlined in the Commission’s Work Programme. Her announcement follows earlier comments to Le Monde last week, where she hinted at the delay.
The EU’s climate advisors have recommended a 2040 target of 90% to 95% CO2 reduction. However, Berlin-based think-tank CEP suggests that a 78% target would strike a better balance between environmental goals and economic stability.
So far, the European Commission has indicated it will propose a 90% reduction target for 2040. This target is seen as a critical milestone in achieving the EU’s long-term climate objectives while addressing concerns about economic impact and feasibility.
The postponement reflects the complexity of aligning ambitious climate action with economic and political realities. As the EU works to finalise its 2040 target, the delay provides additional time for stakeholder consultations and impact assessments, ensuring that the proposed measures are both effective and sustainable.
