EC publishes plan to reduce GHG emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990

Green Forum
The European Commission published a detailed impact assessment on possible ways to achieve the agreed goal of making the European Union climate neutral by 2050 and, based on this impact assessment, recommended a 90% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.

Based on this impact assessment, the Commission recommends a net reduction of 90% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, initiating a discussion with all stakeholders. Following the 

European elections, the next Commission will propose legislation, which will be agreed upon with the European Parliament and member states, as provided for in the European Climate Law. This recommendation is in line with the advisory opinion of the European Scientific Advisory Council on Climate Change (ESAC) and with the commitments made by the EU under the Paris Agreement.

Today's communication also sets forth a series of favorable policy conditions necessary for achieving the 90% target. These include the full implementation of the agreed framework for 2030, ensuring the competitiveness of European industry, a greater focus on a just transition that leaves no one behind, fair competition conditions with international partners, and a strategic dialogue on the post-2030 framework, including with industry and the agricultural sector. 

The outcome of COP28 in Dubai shows that the rest of the world is heading in the same direction. The EU has been a trailblazer in international climate actions and should stay on the right track, creating opportunities for the European industry to thrive in new global markets for clean technologies.

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Green Forum  |  19 February, 2026 at 10:24 AM
Green Forum  |  5 February, 2026 at 11:47 PM