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The European Union is at risk of missing a key United Nations deadline to submit updated climate targets, as internal disagreements stall progress on a proposed emissions reduction goal for 2040. The bloc had aimed to cut emissions by approximately 90% compared to 1990 levels by 2040, forming a critical milestone on the path to net-zero by 2050.
However, several member states—most notably France, Italy, and Poland—have raised concerns over the economic impact and feasibility of such an ambitious target. These objections led to the postponement of a planned Environment Council vote, originally scheduled for mid-September. As a result, EU leaders are expected to revisit the issue at a high-level summit in October.
The delay means the EU will likely miss a September deadline set by the UN to submit its revised 2035 climate goals. Since the 2035 target is intended to be derived from the 2040 objective, the lack of consensus on the latter has created a domino effect, leaving the bloc unable to finalize its near-term emissions plan.
In the interim, the EU is considering a “statement of intent” that outlines a potential emissions reduction range of 66.3% to 72.5% by 2035, relative to 1990 levels. While not legally binding, this range would signal the EU’s direction on climate ambition while negotiations continue.
The situation has sparked criticism that the EU’s climate leadership is faltering at a crucial moment. While northern and western member states generally support stronger climate action, others remain cautious, prioritizing industrial competitiveness and economic resilience. The road ahead hinges on the EU’s ability to balance environmental ambition with pragmatic flexibility, including mechanisms like carbon trading and financial safeguards for member states with heavier economic burdens.
This delay not only affects the EU’s climate credibility but also weakens its position in global negotiations ahead of COP summits. Reaching a compromise that satisfies all 27 member states remains a complex but urgent task.
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