Overview
- The latest draft compromise would allow an adjustment to the 2040 intermediate target if forests and other land uses absorb less CO2 than expected.
- The European Commission backs a 90% emissions cut by 2040, and ministers are debating how much of that could be met by buying foreign carbon credits after an initial 3% outsourcing idea failed to win enough support.
- Negotiators are also considering biennial reviews and potential clauses to revise the target downward if sub‑targets or economic conditions undermine delivery.
- Europe’s land sector has lost nearly one‑third of its CO2‑absorption capacity over the past decade, driven by wildfires and unsustainable forest management.
- Denmark, which drafted the text, says a deal is within reach, with at least 15 of 27 EU countries needed for approval and senior Commission officials urging against weakening the goal.