EU set to recommend deep CO2 cuts for 2040 climate target

The European Commission is poised to recommend on Tuesday the EU reduces its net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, a target that will test political appetite to continue Europe's ambitious fight against climate change ahead of EU elections. Drafts of the Commission recommendation, seen by Reuters, show the EU will endorse the 90% target for net greenhouse gas cuts compared with 1990 levels. Drawn up amid farmers' protests across Europe and political pushback on some EU green laws, the EU plan is set to focus on preserving public support and European industries. European Union flags flutter outside the EU Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, July 14, 2021. Photo: ReutersThe 2040 target would transform Europe's energy mix, with coal-fuelled power phased out and overall fossil fuel use reduced by 80%, replaced with renewable and nuclear power.