EU Struggles to Finalize Climate Targets Ahead of COP30 Summit

As the COP30 climate summit in Brazil approaches, European Union member states are still deadlocked over new emissions targets for 2035 and 2040. Despite marathon negotiations in Brussels, ministers failed to reach a final agreement and are set to resume talks on Wednesday.
Denmark, which holds the EU’s rotating presidency, expressed optimism that a political deal was close, saying discussions were continuing to bridge differences among nations. The urgency stems from the need to finalize the bloc’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2035 — a key commitment under the Paris Agreement.
Germany has pushed for a “strong European mandate” at COP30, while France has withheld support pending assurances that its nuclear industry and carbon-absorption plans will be protected. Meanwhile, Italy, Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic remain wary of economic impacts, arguing that stricter climate goals could harm industry and competitiveness.
The European Commission has proposed a 90% emissions cut by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, part of the broader effort to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Support from Spain, Germany, and Nordic countries remains strong, but opposition from several member states threatens to delay consensus.
Talks also include possible “flexibilities,” such as allowing countries to use carbon credits from projects outside the EU. However, environmental groups have criticized such measures as potential loopholes weakening Europe’s leadership on climate action.
Despite internal disagreements, EU officials insist the bloc remains the world’s largest contributor to climate finance, with over €31 billion mobilized in 2024, reaffirming its commitment to global climate goals.