This is why the Green Pact no longer convinces Europe
Environment ministers deferred final decision on 2040 emissions reduction target to heads of state and government
from our correspondent Beda Romano
2' min read
2' min read
BRUSSELS - For years, the European Union has shown the way on the environmental front. Today, it is grappling with more than a few second thoughts, so much so that the Green Pact is now a controversial topic and the subject of corrections. Meeting yesterday in Brussels, the environment ministers decided to postpone the decision on the 2040 target for reducing harmful emissions to the heads of state and government. While waiting, the ministers agreed on a mere declaration of intent focusing on 2035.
Before the summer break, the European Commission had proposed an emissions reduction target of 90 per cent by 2040, compared to 1990 levels, with a view to achieving climate neutrality in 2050. In its proposal, Brussels had introduced elements of flexibility, which (so far) have not proved sufficient. In recent weeks, the Twenty-Seven have failed to find a compromise.
Yesterday, the environment ministers merely approved a letter of intent focusing on 2035. The two-page declaration envisages an emissions reduction range of between -66.25% and -72.50% compared to 1990, which will be refined as we go along. The aim is not to arrive 'empty-handed', to use the expression of one diplomat, at the two international summits scheduled in the coming weeks (the first in New York at the end of the month, the second in Brazil in November).
Danish Environment Minister Lars Aagaard, who chaired the ministerial meeting yesterday, explained at a press conference: 'We continue to stand united. We will speak with one clear voice at the United Nations. Today's agreement shows the will of the European Union and its member states to find solutions and promote global climate action'.
Environment Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra spoke of the strategy remaining 'ambitious'.
