In recent days, it has become evident that member states are struggling to agree on specific climate targets for 2035 and 2040. The declaration of intent aims to ensure that the EU presents itself as proactive during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York next week.
European Commissioner for Climate Wopke Hoekstra remains optimistic that the EU will continue to lead in climate initiatives globally. “I have a lot of confidence that this will be seen as a huge step forward,” stated the Dutch official. “If you look at the fork (…) then everyone will recognize that this is very ambitious. We can only hope that others will match us.”
Hoekstra insists that a concrete target for 2035 can still be established prior to the UN climate conference in Belém, Brazil, which begins on November 10. The heads of state and government will address the matter in Brussels on October 23, followed by meetings with the environment ministers.
The 2035 target is interconnected with that for 2040, which, while not needing to be submitted to the UN, must be defined within European climate law. The European Commission had proposed a 90 percent reduction by 2040 before the summer break but is open to flexibility. Member states could potentially meet up to 3 percent of their goals through the purchase of international carbon credits.
Before the meeting commenced, Belgium indicated that its acceptance of new climate targets depends on assurances for citizens and businesses. The requirements are extensive. “Europe must provide all guarantees regarding the protection of the purchasing power of our households, the competitiveness of our companies, the development of employment, respect for a just transition, and the future of our agriculture,” outlined Walloon minister Cécile Neven.
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