France Leads EU Push on 2040 Climate Targets Ahead of 90% CO₂ Reduction Plan
France Sets Framework for EU’s 2040 Climate Targets as Commission Prepares 90% CO₂ Cut Proposal
As the European Commission prepares to unveil its much-anticipated 2040 climate proposal on 2 July, one country is already taking the lead: France. With a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on the table—seen as a key stepping stone toward the EU’s 2050 carbon neutrality goal—President Emmanuel Macron and his administration are shaping the debate, pushing for a climate framework that balances ambition with realism.
This early intervention comes as the European Green Deal faces mounting scrutiny, and the EU works to defend its economic competitiveness on the global stage. As Brussels finalises its proposal, EU member states are already lining up their priorities—and their red lines.
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Macron’s Message: Targets with Tools
At last week’s European summit, Macron made it clear: France supports climate ambition, but not at the expense of industry and competitiveness.
"I'm in favour of having these targets in 2040, but we must give ourselves the means to do so," Macron said. "That means technological neutrality, flexibility, and investment."
The French President emphasised that 2040 targets cannot be purely idealistic or politically symbolic. Rather, they must be achievable and aligned with broader goals like energy security, economic stability, and innovation.
The “Flexibility” Factor
Macron’s favoured term—flexibility—has become the political buzzword in Brussels. It’s also been embraced by European Commission Vice-President Teresa Ribera, who is responsible for the “Clean, Fair and Competitive Transition.”
“Reducing our emissions by 90% by 2040 is a clear objective. We then need to discuss how we can combine the different elements, the possible flexibilities,” Ribera told Euronews.
But this “grey area of flexibility” is where much of the political tension lies. Environmental NGOs are urging the EU not to dilute the integrity of its climate commitments by over-relying on loopholes—especially those that could allow countries to appear compliant without making deep domestic emissions cuts.
Concerns from Climate Advocates
One key concern is the possible use of international credits. These would allow EU member states to invest in emissions reductions outside the EU—say, in developing countries—and count those savings toward their 2040 target.
“This is a major problem,” warns Michael Sicaud-Clyet, Climate Governance Officer at WWF EU. “It diverts investment away from people, industries, and local governments within the EU, weakening the impact on Europe’s green transition.”
Other controversial methods include reliance on carbon sinks—natural systems like forests—or technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) that have not yet been proven at the necessary scale.
Environmental groups argue that such approaches, while potentially useful, must be supplementary and not used as a substitute for real emissions reductions.
Democratic Debate or Political Delay?
France is calling for a measured, democratic approach to the 2040 climate negotiations. Macron insisted that setting such a critical target must not be rushed, warning against a purely technical debate among bureaucrats.
"It must be a democratic debate. If we’re ready for COP30 in Belém, great. If not, let’s take our time and get it right," Macron stated.
He reinforced France’s focus on a four-pillar approach:
- Flexibility
- Investment
- Technological neutrality
- Trade coherence
This last point underscores France’s demand for climate-aligned trade policy. If the EU adopts stringent climate rules, it must also ensure carbon border measures and import standards that prevent "climate dumping" from less ambitious global competitors.
Divided Europe: Allies and Swing States
France isn’t alone in its cautious stance. Hungary and Poland are likely allies in pushing for more economic safeguards in the climate deal. However, other EU countries—including Germany, Spain, Finland, and Denmark (the current holder of the EU presidency)—have voiced full support for the 90% emissions reduction target.
Meanwhile, several “swing states” remain strategically ambiguous, waiting to see how the negotiations unfold before committing to a firm position.
What’s Next?
For the European Commission, this moment is pivotal. 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, and EU leadership is eager to show that Europe remains a global climate frontrunner.
“We need to continue making progress in an area that is essential for the economic and social well-being of Europeans,” said Ribera.
Yet achieving unity among 27 member states will require skilful diplomacy, clear timelines, and credible incentives.
Final Thoughts
France’s early leadership in shaping the 2040 climate conversation signals the beginning of an intense and high-stakes EU negotiation. Balancing environmental ambition with industrial pragmatism, ensuring fairness between richer and poorer member states, and navigating international trade tensions—all will test the EU’s ability to deliver a coherent and impactful climate roadmap.
As the Commission prepares to drop its official proposal, the battle lines are being drawn—and the future of Europe’s climate policy is once again up for debate.
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France leads the EU debate on 2040 climate targets ahead of a major European Commission proposal to cut CO₂ emissions by 90%. Here’s what’s at stake.