Last week, the European Parliament voted to back a binding target to cut Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040.
This is a key milestone on the road to climate neutrality by 2050, after recent reports warned that the world is still on track for a catastrophic 2.6C increase in temperature.
The 90% reduction target will become the core of the EU’s Climate Law, providing clarity for businesses and investors. This goal also guides Europe’s industrial modernisation, supports the Clean Industrial Deal and strengthens energy independence.
Liberals played a leading role in building a broad pro-European majority, working with the EPP, S&D and Greens to defend the initiative against the far right and conservative attempts to weaken the target and prevent climate action.
With the adoption of the European Parliament’s position, the legislation will move to negotiations with the European Council. The European Parliament has put strict criteria and safeguards in place pertaining to international climate credits. Renew Europe has called on Member States to adopt the initiative and for swift adoption of the final law.
Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy MEP (D66, NL) initiated talks with Greens, S&D and EPP to get the result that the far-right rapporteur was unwilling to achieve. He hailed the vote as “a victory for common sense, for clean industry and for a Europe that keeps its promises.”
Gerbrandy went on to declare:
“Today, Europe chose progress over paralysis. We voted for cleaner air for our children, lower energy bills for families and more investment in the technologies that will power Europe’s future. The far right tried to block it, but the democratic majority stood firm.”
“This is a choice for industrial strategy. Most companies are already making the right steps, and they deserve clear climate ambitions. We have one task, and it is to give European companies confidence to innovate and invest. They create high-quality jobs, make us less dependent on imported fossil fuels and keep Europe competitive in the global clean-tech race.”
“The far right voted against Europe’s future, they claim to defend workers and competitiveness, but their plan would raise energy costs, deepen fossil dependence and push investment overseas. European liberals stand for responsibility, not denial.”
“Europe is the fastest-warming continent on earth. Staying the course is not only about protecting the climate, it’s about protecting our economy, our security and our future prosperity. The centre held, and Europe is moving forward together.”