The European Commission is preparing an ambitious climate target aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, as part of a broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

To meet this target, the Commission is considering flexible measures, including the potential use of international carbon credits to fulfill a portion of the emissions reductions.

Germany has proposed that the use of these international credits be limited to 3% of the overall 90% target, while France supports this approach provided that the credits accurately reflect actual emissions reductions abroad.

However, disagreements among EU member states are causing delays in the proposal, which was initially scheduled for discussion in March, largely due to concerns regarding the economic impact during a period of slow industrial recovery.

As Europe grapples with rising temperatures and extreme weather events, many governments are prioritizing industrial competitiveness over stringent environmental commitments.

Countries such as Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Slovenia are in favor of the 90% reduction target, while Italy, the Czech Republic, and Poland oppose it, citing potential negative impacts on their industrial sectors.

Poland, in particular, argues for more lenient targets due to its heavy reliance on coal and the economic costs associated with transitioning to cleaner energy sources, emphasizing the need to consider the economic capacities of member states.

In contrast, Estonia has proposed an alternative target of an 80% reduction by 2040, contingent upon advancements in carbon capture technology, highlighting the need for flexibility in commitments.

Discussions among EU member states will continue in the coming months, with any new targets requiring approval from both the European Parliament and the member states, leaving the path to 2040 uncertain.

Mika Nykänen, Finland's climate secretary, has expressed support for the ambitious target, underscoring the importance of stability in climate goals to attract investment.