EU Says ‘Well on Track’ to Reach 2030 Climate Targets

The European Union (EU) is poised to meet its 2030 climate targets, the European Commission announced Wednesday, with expected greenhouse gas emissions falling by 54% compared to 1990 levels, just shy of its 55% goal.

However, significant uncertainty remains regarding the bloc’s more ambitious 2040 emissions reduction targets.

The EU faces a complex balancing act: boosting European industry amidst fierce competition from the US and China, strengthening its defences against Russia, and combating climate change’s accelerating impacts, such as wildfires and floods.

Despite these geopolitical challenges, climate chief Wopke Hoekstra expressed optimism, stating, “The EU is well on track to achieve its 2030 target.”

He cautioned, however, that “the ambition on paper needs to be matched by ambition in the real world.” The bloc has already reduced emissions by 37% since 1990, including an 8% drop in 2023.

Most member states are also aligning with the target of achieving a 42.5% share of renewable energy in total consumption by 2030.

Despite this progress, the Commission highlighted disparities among member states in cutting emissions and issues with forest protection and carbon storage.

Belgium, Estonia, and Poland were specifically urged to submit their energy and climate plans without delay.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen noted, “We’ve come a long way, but we’re not where we need to be yet.”

2040 Targets and Flexibility

The EU aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 and seeks an interim 90% emissions reduction target by 2040 (compared to 1990 levels).

While Hoekstra stressed the importance of a clear 2040 target for predictability, negotiations among EU countries are stalled, and the Commission has hesitated to formally propose the 90% cut, with some nations like the Czech Republic and Italy deeming it unrealistic.

The Commission is now considering greater flexibility for 2040 calculations, including the use of international carbon credits.

The EU’s executive arm plans to submit a formal proposal before the summer, emphasising the bloc’s readiness for the upcoming UN COP30 climate conference in Brazil.

However, these delays have concerned environmental groups, especially given President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement.

There are also fears of a broader weakening of the European Green Deal, a key initiative under Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, as red tape is cut and right-wing political influence grows across Europe.