EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen frames the transition to a clean economy as an opportunity to revitalize industries, reduce dependence on Chinese imports, and position Europe as a leader in green technology.

Von der Leyen highlights the strategic importance of clean technology for both climate mitigation and EU competitiveness, emphasizing technological leadership and independence.

Scientific evidence suggests that decarbonization can boost investment, innovation, employment, and reinforce Europe's technological leadership.

EU leaders are preparing to debate a bold new climate goal of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 at their upcoming summit, despite internal disagreements and resistance from some member states.

Draft conclusions indicate that while the EU will proceed with the 2040 target, a 'revision clause' will be included to allow future adjustments if technological or economic conditions hinder progress, with a ministerial approval scheduled for November 4.

Proposed amendments to the climate plan include controlling carbon market prices, strengthening the carbon border levy, and potentially softening the 2035 combustion engine ban under pressure from countries like Germany and Italy.

Leaders see climate measures as vital for revitalizing European industries, reducing reliance on Chinese imports, and competing effectively on the global stage.

This year, the EU has already scaled back some climate policies to address political pushback from member states and trade partners, including the US and Qatar.

The debate includes proposals for revising vehicle emissions bans, adjusting emissions trading, and allowing future modifications to targets to accommodate national interests.

Leaders are expected to discuss climate policies during the upcoming EU council, with detailed decisions deferred to the environmental council meeting on November 4.

There is a possibility of including a 'revision clause' in the climate targets, reflecting the difficulty in reaching unanimous agreement among member states.

The summit takes place against a backdrop of declining global political momentum for climate action, with the US dismantling some emissions policies and worsening extreme weather events.

EU officials stress that ambitious climate targets are essential for attracting investments and leading in green technology, but economic concerns and industry support remain significant obstacles.

The summit occurs amid declining political momentum for climate action within the EU, with some member states opposing stringent measures due to concerns over financing, energy costs, and other priorities like defense and economic recovery.

EU officials emphasize that achieving these climate goals requires enabling conditions such as adequate financing and supportive policies to prevent higher energy costs and protect industries competing globally, especially against US tariffs and Chinese imports.

Resistance to the proposal stems from concerns over the economic costs of transitioning to a low-carbon economy and other competing priorities like defense and economic recovery.

Major EU countries such as Poland and the Czech Republic oppose the 90% emissions reduction goal, citing economic and technological challenges, and are advocating for greater flexibility.

Countries like Poland support a 'revision clause' to allow future adjustments to the 2040 target, citing unforeseen technological or economic setbacks, and some want to increase use of foreign carbon credits.

EU environment ministers initially aimed to agree on climate laws in September, but the decision was postponed to seek higher-level political mandates from countries like France and Germany.

The European Commission has made adjustments to sustainability policies, including exemptions for small farmers and modified carbon pricing for transport, to address dissent.

Wealthier EU nations advocate for more flexible targets due to environmental challenges and economic impacts, while poorer states emphasize the need for careful planning to meet climate goals.

Disparities within the EU exist, with wealthier countries more confident about meeting targets but also seeking flexibility, especially due to issues like wildfires affecting forests' CO2 absorption.

EU leaders are demanding guarantees that if forests underperform in absorbing CO2, other industries won’t be forced to accelerate emissions cuts, and are considering more foreign carbon credits to offset reductions.

There is ongoing debate among member states about the need for flexibility if environmental variability affects CO2 absorption, which could impact emission reduction timelines.

EU officials clarify that the goal of ongoing discussions is to strengthen climate ambitions through effective implementation and consensus, not to weaken targets.

Discussions will focus on 'enabling conditions' like financing and policies to support a just transition, ensuring affordability for citizens and industries amid global economic challenges.

Decisions on climate targets among ministers are easier to reach, requiring only a majority, but EU leaders need unanimity, which has caused delays.

The EU has already reduced emissions by 37% since 1990 and remains a global leader in climate action, second only to China in emissions.

The upcoming EU summit and COP30 are critical for shaping the bloc’s climate credibility, as concessions and compromises may dilute ambitions while balancing economic stability.