EU’s proposed 2040 emissions target signals its retreat as leader on climate action
GuardianJUL 3
EU Proposes 90% Emissions Cut by 2040 Amid Political Divisions
Above: People try to cool off in public fountains in Berlin, Germany on July 2, 2025. Image copyright: Halil Sagirkaya/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
The 90% emissions target represents pragmatic leadership that balances climate ambition with economic reality. The flexibility to use international carbon credits creates opportunities to build bridges with developing nations while maintaining industrial competitiveness during challenging geopolitical times.
Climate-concerned narrative
Europe's blistering heatwave is a glaring sign of man-made climate change torching the planet. Yet, politicians stall, paralyzed by denial or fear of voter backlash. Extreme heat, deadly floods, and desertification devastate ecosystems and economies, and politicians only make things worse by dodging tough choices. Bold action is urgent to tackle this existential crisis and safeguard our future.
Climate-skeptic narrative
While Europe's heatwave is framed as a climate crisis, in reality, extreme heat is a seasonal norm, not an apocalypse. Historical data shows temperature fluctuations are typical, not existential threats. While European politicians push for costly green energy policies like banning air conditioning, they ironically sit in air-conditioned offices in Brussels.