The European Commission is considering giving EU countries more flexibility in meeting the 2040 climate goal of cutting emissions by 90%, diplomats told Reuters on Friday. This move comes as critics push back against what they see as overly strict climate policies.
The Commission plans to propose the 90% emissions reduction target in early July, compared to 1990 levels. However, the target could allow member states to buy carbon credits or relax rules for certain industries, sources said.
The EU aims to be carbon neutral by 2050, with a current target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
The 2040 goal is the next major step toward this net-zero ambition. While initially set as a strict 90% cut, the new proposal will likely include more flexibility, according to EU diplomats.
The EU has some of the toughest climate rules globally, but it is trying to balance environmental goals with maintaining economic competitiveness.
Last month, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright criticized Europe’s net-zero plans. He said the policies reduce emissions but come at the cost of reliable and affordable energy for citizens. Wright, founder of fracking company Liberty Energy, pointed out that Europe accounts for only 8% of global emissions.
He added that strict climate mandates lead to deindustrialization and higher energy costs for consumers and businesses. According to Wright, these factors make it unlikely that Europe’s approach will be adopted worldwide.
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