EU considers introducing a “brake” for climate targets, according to a document

The European Union is considering introducing a so-called “brake clause” that would make it possible to lower the climate targets for 2040 in the future. A draft compromise provides that the EU could adjust its interim target if member states do not absorb enough CO₂ through forests and soils, to the extent corresponding to the identified gap.

The environment and climate ministers of the EU member states are set to discuss the proposal on November 4, shortly before EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen travels to the COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil.

The current plan calls for a 90 percent reduction in emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. According to the draft, the Union could also decide on measures to support forests. The idea of a “braking clause” already appeared in last week's French working draft. The adoption of the target requires the approval of at least 15 of the 27 member states.

(reuters, sie)