Tuesday, February 17, 2026

EU to have new climate targets by COP30, Ursula von der Leyen says

The European Union is taking bold steps towards combating climate change by setting ambitious emissions-cutting targets for the years 2035 and 2040. This announcement was made by the European Commission president on Tuesday, ahead of the COP30 climate summit in November. This move showcases the EU’s commitment to leading the fight against global warming and sets a positive example for other nations to follow.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, stated that the EU will aim to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2035 and reach net-zero emissions by 2040. This is a significant increase from the previous target of 40% reduction by 2030. This decision was made after careful consideration of the latest scientific evidence and the urgent need to address the climate crisis.

The EU has been at the forefront of climate action for many years, and this new commitment only solidifies its position as a global leader in the fight against climate change. The EU’s Green Deal, which was launched in 2019, aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. With these new targets, the EU is taking a giant leap towards achieving this goal and setting an example for the rest of the world.

The decision to set emissions-cutting targets for 2035 and 2040 is a crucial step towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement. The Paris Agreement, which was signed in 2015, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The EU’s new targets align with the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal and demonstrate its commitment to keeping the planet’s temperature rise in check.

The EU’s ambitious targets will require significant changes in various sectors, including energy, transport, and agriculture. The EU plans to achieve these targets by investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable transport, and implementing more environmentally friendly farming practices. These measures will not only help reduce emissions but also create new job opportunities and boost economic growth.

The EU’s decision to set emissions-cutting targets for 2035 and 2040 has been met with widespread support from environmental organizations and activists. This move has been hailed as a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future. It also sends a strong message to other countries that the EU is serious about tackling the climate crisis and is willing to take bold actions to achieve its goals.

Moreover, the EU’s commitment to reducing emissions will also have a positive impact on international climate negotiations. With the COP30 climate summit just a few months away, the EU’s announcement will put pressure on other countries to step up their efforts and make similar commitments. This could lead to more ambitious targets being set at the summit, which is crucial for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.

In conclusion, the European Union’s decision to set emissions-cutting targets for 2035 and 2040 is a significant milestone in the fight against climate change. It showcases the EU’s leadership and determination to address the pressing issue of global warming. With these targets, the EU is not only taking responsibility for its own emissions but also inspiring other nations to take action. Let us hope that this positive momentum continues, and together, we can create a greener and more sustainable world for future generations.

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