European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels today to discuss the bloc’s climate ambitions and industrial revival, with a key emissions goal hanging in the balance. The EU is under pressure to agree on a 10-year target to cut carbon emissions ahead of the United Nations COP30 climate summit next month. However, competing concerns over supporting ailing businesses, including Europe’s cherished car industry, have stalled progress.
The European Commission has proposed cutting emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels, a major milestone towards the overarching goal of reaching net-zero by 2050. But some member states, like Poland and the Czech Republic, argue that this target is unachievable and are dragging their feet. EU leaders are expected to debate the conditions for this new emissions goal, including financing and supportive policies needed to avoid higher energy bills for citizens and support businesses.
The EU’s climate ambitions are at stake, and experts warn that the bloc’s position as a global leader on climate change is at risk. The EU has already cut emissions by 37% compared to 1990, but green advocates say more is needed to stave off the worst consequences of rising global temperatures. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes that the shift to a clean economy is Europe’s chance to revitalize industries and cut reliance on imports from China.
