The European Commission issued a statement on February 6, proposing to reduce the EU's net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 based on 1990 levels, which will promote the EU to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
A report released by the European Commission that day assessed possible pathways for the EU to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Based on this assessment, the European Commission proposed a 2040 climate target and a series of measures that need to be taken.
The statement said that achieving the proposed 2040 climate targets requires a number of favorable policy conditions, including the full implementation of the previously agreed 2030 climate targets, ensuring the competitiveness of European industry, an increased focus on a fair transition that leaves no one behind, and International partners to establish a level playing field and engage in strategic dialogue on the post-2030 policy framework. Specific approaches include: utilizing all zero-carbon and low-carbon solutions to decarbonize the energy system by 2040, deploying carbon capture technology earlier, and establishing an industrial alliance for small modular reactors.
The statement pointed out that setting a 2040 climate target will help European industry, investors, citizens and governments make decisions, enabling the EU to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. At the same time, setting a 2040 climate target will also enhance the EU's energy independence and ability to cope with future crises.
The statement said that the legislative proposal for the 2040 climate target will be submitted by the new European Commission after the European Parliament elections in June this year. Once the proposal is adopted, the EU will start formulating a policy framework after 2030.
In April 2023, the European Council adopted a number of legislative proposals for emission reductions. These legislative proposals are part of a package of proposals to combat climate change called Adaptation 55 put forward by the European Commission in July 2021, aiming to achieve a reduction of at least 55% of EU net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. % and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.