EU Nations Divided Over Ambitious 2040 Climate Target

European Union countries face internal conflicts as they attempt to agree on a 2040 climate target to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While some nations support a 90% reduction goal, others fear the economic impact on industries and advocate for flexibility, such as using international carbon credits.

The European Union is wrestling with internal divisions over a proposed climate target for 2040, aiming to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 90%. This ambitious goal, set by the European Commission, seeks to maintain the bloc's trajectory towards achieving full carbon neutrality by 2050.

However, this proposal has encountered opposition, particularly from countries like Italy and the Czech Republic, which express concerns about the detrimental impacts on heavy industry. Other nations, including Denmark and Slovenia, support the target and emphasize the importance of stability and clear policies to foster investment.

In response to these disagreements, the European Commission is contemplating compromises, such as permitting the use of international carbon credits, although such measures may dilute the target's efficacy. With negotiations rife with political pushback, the road to consensus remains fraught.

(With inputs from agencies.)