European Union (EU) environment ministers have approved a new plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2040, following lengthy negotiations in Brussels, just weeks before the UN COP30 climate summit opens in Brazil.
However, the new agreement introduces flexibility for member states, allowing them to meet up to 10 percent of their target through foreign carbon credits, and to delay the implementation of certain climate policies.
Countries such as France and Portugal supported the softer approach, while Spain and the Netherlands opposed it, arguing that it would weaken Europe’s leadership role in climate action.
Environmental groups also criticized the decision, warning that the new loopholes could divert investments away from clean-energy industries within Europe.
The EU has already reduced its emissions by 37 percent since 1990, but political shifts and economic pressures have led to a more lenient version of the plan.
Ministers also agreed to delay the launch of the new carbon market covering transport and heating fuels until 2028, in order to ease pressure on energy prices.
Despite the concessions, the EU maintains that it remains committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, while balancing environmental goals with economic growth.
