- The EU has adopted a target of reducing emissions by 90 percent by 2040.
- Approximately 85 percent of the reduction is to be achieved through measures taken by EU countries.
- Countries can achieve up to 5 percent of the cuts through carbon credits from abroad.
Climate objective and principles for its implementation
The European Union has adopted an ambitious climate target requiring a 90 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. The basis for meeting the target is domestic action by the Member States, which is expected to lead to an 85 per cent reduction in emissions. In addition, the possibility of using foreign carbon credits has been introduced, which can cover the remaining 5 per cent of the required cuts. This is intended to provide flexibility and reduce the burden on the sectors most exposed to transition costs.
The reconciliation also includes the decision to delay the start of the ETS for transport and buildings. According to the new timetable, the implementation of these regulations will take place in 2028. The aim is to mitigate the impact of climate policy on households and businesses, and to allow countries to adapt their own support mechanisms.
Significance of the agreement and contentious elements
The adopted climate target is a key step on the road to achieving climate neutrality for the European Union in 2050. It is intended to set a clear path for emissions reductions, support the development of new energy technologies and stimulate industry to modernise. At the same time, flexible tools, such as carbon credits or changing regulatory deadlines, are intended to help maintain a balance between climate ambition and economic stability.
However, the agreement has been criticised by some experts, who point out that the possibility to apply foreign carbon credits reduces the actual level of cuts made within Europe. They point out that the solutions adopted do not fully reflect the recommendations of the scientific community regarding the level of reductions needed to limit the global increase in temperatures. Nonetheless, the compromise was seen as the only politically acceptable solution in the face of differences of interest among member states.
