EC publishes plan to reduce GHG emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990

Green Forum
The European Commission published a detailed impact assessment on possible ways to achieve the agreed goal of making the European Union climate neutral by 2050 and, based on this impact assessment, recommended a 90% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.

Based on this impact assessment, the Commission recommends a net reduction of 90% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, initiating a discussion with all stakeholders. Following the 

European elections, the next Commission will propose legislation, which will be agreed upon with the European Parliament and member states, as provided for in the European Climate Law. This recommendation is in line with the advisory opinion of the European Scientific Advisory Council on Climate Change (ESAC) and with the commitments made by the EU under the Paris Agreement.

Today's communication also sets forth a series of favorable policy conditions necessary for achieving the 90% target. These include the full implementation of the agreed framework for 2030, ensuring the competitiveness of European industry, a greater focus on a just transition that leaves no one behind, fair competition conditions with international partners, and a strategic dialogue on the post-2030 framework, including with industry and the agricultural sector. 

The outcome of COP28 in Dubai shows that the rest of the world is heading in the same direction. The EU has been a trailblazer in international climate actions and should stay on the right track, creating opportunities for the European industry to thrive in new global markets for clean technologies.

RECOMMENDED
RECOMMENDED FROM THE HOME PAGE
Industry

Lidl Romania exceeds 2030 sustainability targets early

Lidl Romania has published its eighth sustainability report for the 2024 financial year, announcing accelerated progress in reducing environmental impact. The retailer has achieved its international 2030 target for transitioning to natural refrigerants, with these now used in 100% of logistics centres and 81.7% of stores, compared to the original goal of 100% of logistics centres and 40% of stores. The company has also increased its green energy usage to 80% of total consumption.

Energy

Dentons advises OX2 on 235 MW Romanian wind acquisition

Global law firm Dentons has advised OX2 on acquiring three wind power projects totaling 235 MW in Romania from Future Power. The projects, located in Vaslui and Vrancea counties, are expected to be commissioned between 2028 and 2030, subject to permitting.

Energy

Turkish investors pour millions into Romanian green energy

Romania is emerging as a key destination for Turkish renewable energy investments, attracting growing interest from industrial and financial groups. Real grid connection opportunities for projects, infrastructure modernisation potential, and investment framework stability make Romania strategic for Turkish capital as Europe accelerates its transition to sustainable sources and energy independence.

Business

Cost remains main driver and biggest barrier in sustainability

51% of Romanian entrepreneurs see sustainability as a way to reduce operational costs, yet the same proportion say implementation is too expensive, according to a new study by BRD Groupe Société Générale. Conducted among micro and small-to-medium enterprises, the research outlines how Romanian entrepreneurs perceive the opportunities and challenges of transitioning to sustainable business models.

READ MORE
Green Forum  |  11 December, 2025 at 11:36 AM