The Coalition for Higher Ambition is urging EU leaders to support a net domestic emissions reduction target of at least 90% by 2040 and to submit an ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).
The group is calling for the target ahead of the upcoming European Council (EUCO) and Environment Council (ENV) meetings.
Since the European Commission released its Communication on the 2040 climate target in February 2024, the impacts of the climate crisis have continued to escalate worldwide.
More than one year on from this announcement, the necessary Climate Law amendment is yet to be seen, as is the now overdue EU NDC to be submitted under the Paris Agreement.
The Coalition for Higher Ambition (a broad alliance of businesses, local and regional authorities and civil society groups), is now calling on the EU and Member States to fully meet its obligations in order to build on the European Green Deal in addressing the climate crisis.
The recent Clean Industrial Deal and the Competitiveness Compass announcements reaffirm the EU’s commitment to decarbonisation, recognising that climate ambition is a driver of economic competitiveness as well as of energy security. Businesses, investors, and local and regional authorities are already leading the way in this regard, investing in clean industries, decarbonisation, and resilience measures.
In this framework, a clear and ambitious 2040 climate target will provide increased certainty for businesses and financial markets, de-risk investments, and strengthen Europe’s economic leadership, stated the coalition.
“The broad coalition calling for a science-based target speaks volumes. Europe has a choice: act decisively now and harness the opportunities of the green transition, or risk falling behind” said Chiara Martinelli, Director at CAN Europe.
Matinelli added: “An ambitious 2040 emissions reduction target will ensure the co-benefits of job creation, economic growth, social protections, public health improvements, and energy security well before 2040.”
The Coalition urges EU leaders to “swiftly agree” on ambitious and science-aligned post-2030 targets to reflect:
At least 90% net domestic emissions reduction by 2040 (compared to 1990 levels), in line with the recommendations of the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change (ESABCC) and an NDC that includes a 2035 target no lower than at least 72.5% net domestic emissions reductions.
The coalition stated: “Ahead of COP30, the EU must reaffirm its global climate leadership through ambitious domestic policies and international collaboration.
“Failing to deliver a strong NDC after missing the UNFCCC deadline would undermine global progress and weaken Europe’s position as a credible partner in the just transition.”